Thank you to everyone who joined us for our 1st Friday social event on 4th July . What a brilliant evening it turned out to be! With around 35 attendees, the evening was a relaxed and enjoyable get together full of good food, great music, and even better company. Whether people came for the BBQ, the music, or just to unwind with friends at the Clubhouse, there was something for everyone to enjoy.
Setting the Scene: Community at the Heart
As guests arrived at the Clubhouse, the setting was already buzzing. The weather played its part with a dry, pleasant evening, giving us the perfect conditions to host an open-air BBQ and music night. People filtered in from early evening, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere instantly setting the tone for the night ahead.
From the smell of the grill to the soft strum of the sound check on stage, it was clear this was going to be a memorable evening. Attendees included familiar faces, loyal supporters, Club volunteers, and even a few newcomers who decided to pop by all of whom were welcomed with a smile.
The Clubhouse garden and surrounding space were transformed into a cosy, informal setting, complete with fairy lights, folding chairs, and the hum of conversation and anticipation. These Friday socials are more than just events; they are an opportunity to bring people together and this one truly delivered.
A Big Thank You to the BBQ Team:
A huge thank you must go to our incredible BBQ Team, who worked hard behind the scenes (and the grill!) to make sure everyone had something delicious on their plate.
Throughout the early evening, the grill stayed hot, serving up a tasty range of classic BBQ fare, juicy burgers, bangers, chicken skewers, and a variety of vegetarian options. The queue moved quickly and the portions were generous, with more than enough to satisfy everyone.
Everything was cooked to perfection and served with a smile. The feedback from attendees couldn’t have been more positive not just about the taste, but also about the warmth and efficiency of the volunteers running the food station.
The food was accompanied by a spread of salads, rolls, sauces, and snacks, allowing everyone to build their perfect plate. There was a real sense of generosity and care in every detail something we’re very proud of at AFC Croydon.
We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to every member of the BBQ Team for their effort, organisation, and good humour. You helped make the evening a true success.
Live Music by Dave Sears & Dom Tansley:
Once the food was served and the crowd was relaxed and full, it was time for the live music, and what a treat it was. Taking to the stage were two talented and well-loved local performers: Dave Sears and Dom Tansley.
Dave Sears
Dave opened the musical segment of the evening with a beautifully curated acoustic set. His smooth vocals and skilled guitar playing created an immediate connection with the audience. From heartfelt ballads to familiar classics, his style was warm, soulful, and perfect for the relaxed setting.
Dave’s presence was both calming and captivating, with his storytelling through song adding a real touch of depth to the evening. Whether seated with a plate of food or standing by the bar with a drink in hand, everyone paused to listen the sign of a truly engaging performance.
Dom Tansley
Following Dave’s set, Dom Tansley took the stage and brought a fresh burst of energy. With a bluesy, rootsy sound and strong stage presence, Dom delivered a performance that had people clapping along, tapping their feet, and even singing along.
His confidence and passion for music were clear, and his setlist included a mix of original tunes and reimagined favourites. Dom’s ability to connect with the audience made his set especially memorable, and it capped off the entertainment portion of the night in style.
Together, Dave and Dom brought a perfect balance of sound, spirit, and spontaneity and we’re incredibly grateful to them for performing.
A Great Evening All Round
It was wonderful to see familiar faces and new ones enjoying the evening together. Events like this are all about community, catching up, having a laugh, and enjoying time together off the pitch.
We’re already looking forward to hosting more Friday socials like this one. Keep an eye on our social media pages for upcoming event announcements!
Socials & Snapshots
For those who couldn’t make it, or just want to relive the memories, we’ve shared a selection of photos and clips on our social media channels.
Follow us on Instagram: @CROYDONATHLETIC
Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/AFCCA
