Harvey Smith’s Bold Step Up: A New Chapter Begins at Sittingbourne
So, here we are in what looks like a pivotal moment for both Sittingbourne FC and young forward Harvey Smith. If you’ve been keeping an eye on non-league football in Kent, you’ll know this move is creating quite a bit of buzz—and rightly so. Harvey Smith, who just a few weeks ago was lighting up Wembley with Whitstable Town in their FA Vase final win, has now joined Sittingbourne on a season-long loan. That’s a major leap, not just for the player but for the club as well.
Now, what makes this move interesting is that it's not your usual progression. Harvey is actually moving up a division—something you don’t often see in a loan deal. But Sittingbourne boss Ryan Maxwell made it clear: this was the only viable way to bring him in, considering Harvey’s contractual ties with Whitstable. Instead of blocking the move or demanding a transfer fee, Whitstable showed real class by allowing this to happen. They understood that holding a young player back when he wants to push forward doesn't benefit anyone. That kind of forward-thinking is rare and deserves real credit.
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Maxwell, who’s clearly had an eye on Smith for a while, spoke very highly of him. You can see why—17 goals last season, man-of-the-match at Wembley, and still only 22 years old. He’s got size, speed, a sharp footballing brain, and he delivers on big occasions. Maxwell believes with a bit more maturity and fine-tuning, Smith has the potential to grow into something special. And let’s not overlook the significance of a manager who wants to develop a player, not just use him.
Interestingly, Maxwell himself is lacing up his boots again this pre-season—yes, at 42! He’s not planning on playing regularly, but he wants to be in the trenches with the lads during training, leading by example, and showing that the work ethic comes from the top. That kind of leadership can really set the tone for a season.
But there’s also a change in the backroom staff. Leo Roget, a name familiar to Southend and Brentford fans, steps in as assistant manager. With Reece Prestedge stepping down after a solid season, Roget brings both top-level experience and a relentless work ethic. A former pro footballer and now a personal trainer, Roget is no stranger to high standards, and Maxwell is counting on him to sharpen Sittingbourne’s already solid defense.
It’s a time of evolution at Sittingbourne. Prestedge’s departure marks the end of one chapter, but with Smith’s arrival and Roget stepping into a key role, there’s a real sense of momentum building. This isn’t just about adding bodies to the squad; it’s about crafting a culture—one that values growth, resilience, and unity.
So, whether you’re a fan of Sittingbourne, Whitstable, or just a lover of grassroots football, this story feels like more than just a routine transfer. It’s a glimpse into how ambition, respect, and a bit of bravery can align to open doors for everyone involved. Here’s to Harvey Smith making the most of this opportunity—and to the clubs making football better at every level.
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