We’re pleased to announce that we will once again be taking part in the ‘Summer Festival of Football’ on the Isle of Man as part of our 2025 pre-season campaign.
Following the success of last year’s event, which saw the Boro leave the island undefeated following a 4-1 triumph over Lancaster City and a thrilling 3-3 draw with the hosts, Radcliffe have been invited back to The Bowl for another weekend of fantastic football for a second time.
This year, the Isle of Man will welcome National League club Altrincham, League Two outfit Fleetwood Town and of course, Bernard and Jonno’s side; meaning there’ll be a range of teams across different levels for Radcliffe to potentially test themselves against.
Multiple interviews have been carried over recent weeks in preparation for the official announcement, Manager Anthony Johnson, Captain Jordan Hulme and Isle of Man Vice-Chairman Lee Dixon were all amongst those in the hot seat.
Anthony Johnson said that last year’s visit to the island hadn’t been like anything he’d experienced before in his long career in football, but proved to be a great time away for the team to gel together and train while playing competitive football.
Jonno, added: ‘This was not something I’ve ever experienced before. So from an organisational point of view, to manage that many people, hundreds of supporters, that came over with the teams, it was a massive credit to FC Isle of Man. I absolutely implore everyone to jump on the package.’
Captain Jordan Hulme also spoke about his time on the island, expressing that the trip, as well as offering a chance for some pre-season minutes, had also been a great bonding experience for the team as they ventured out to see some of the island and met with their fans for a great evening out in Douglas.
Isle of Man Vice-Chairman Lee Dixon, who leads the organisation of the Festival, said: ‘After the success of last year when we saw hundreds of visiting fans, we are all very excited to see it grow this year.
We hope the fans of Altrincham, Radcliffe and Fleetwood Town take advantage of the amazing packages available and not only get to see some amazing football, but use the opportunity to experience our stunning island as well, coming together to support the teams we all love.
I also have to thank all of our amazing volunteers and supporters, without them this wouldn’t be possible.’
Fixtures
The festival will get underway on Friday 18th July at 3pm with Altrincham vs Radcliffe before FC Isle of Man host Fleetwood Town at 7pm.
Saturday will be a rest day allowing every club to train, and the players and their fans time to explore the amazing island.
Sunday will see the beaten sides from Friday play each other in a 3rd vs 4th play-off at 11am, before the final between the two winning sides will take place at 3pm.
Tickets for the tournament can be purchased here.
Festival packages including ferry crossings, match tickets and accommodation can be purchased via the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company here.
