Joe Clark Returns to Action After Battling Back from Injury

This afternoon’s squad announcement for Retford FC’s brings with it a feel-good story that will resonate with every football fan. After a long and testing year on the sidelines, Joe Clark is back.

The 17 year old’s inclusion in the squad to face Wakefield marks a significant milestone in his inspiring journey back to fitness following a devastating ruptured achilles injury suffered during pre-season last year. It was a cruel blow for a young man whose football career was on a steep upward trajectory.

Before his injury, Joe had already shown his talents in the national schoolboy football scene, earning selection to the Independent Schools Football Association (ISFA) national squad. He impressed further during a two-day training camp at St George’s Park — the home of England’s national teams — and had the honour of captaining the ISFA side in matches against Australia and Wales.

Joe’s talents extended beyond football. He was also a standout schoolboy runner, ranking among the best in the country before injury halted his sporting progress.

A loyal servant to Retford FC, Joe has been with the club since the age of 10 starting with Ordsall Rangers into Retford FC Juniors and now into the Senior Section. His coaches Pep Leone and Steve Smallman always knew this day was coming and can’t wait to see him pulling on a first team shirt later.

Over the past 12 months, he’s shown remarkable resilience and drive to return to the game he loves. Through sheer determination and under the guidance of physio Victoria Brailsford of Move Retford Sports Therapy, Joe has steadily worked his way back to full fitness.

Now training with the first team, Joe has been gradually rebuilding his confidence and sharpness — and today, he’s ready to take another big step in his journey.

First Team Manager Chris Woodhead couldn’t be prouder:

“Joe has been an inspiration. We were shocked when he broke down in training last pre-season, as he was due to be part of my plans moving forward for the first team and under 21s. The injury put him out all season — but he’s come back fighting. He’s always had a smile on his face and his grit and determination to get back to where he was has already shown. I can’t wait to see him take to the field this afternoon and show exactly how far he’s come.”

Everyone at Retford FC will be willing Joe on as he pulls the shirt on once again. His story is a powerful reminder of what hard work, positivity, and resilience can achieve — and there’s no doubt this is just the next chapter in what promises to be a bright future.