It is with regret that we announce Bradley Wilson’s departure from Basingstoke Town Football Club after five remarkable seasons.
Brad joined us in November 2019 from Fleet Town and quickly became a key player in Dan Brownlie’s starting eleven, scoring an impressive 99 goals. Primarily used as a left-sided winger, Brad’s influence grew with each passing year. He spent a brief period in Australia with G.V Suns, only to return to us the following pre-season.
Brad became a formidable goalscorer, his best return saw him score an impressive 30 league goals during our 2022/23 campaign and a similar assist strike rate to match. Regularly sponsored by the Supporters Club was a demonstration of his affiliation amongst our fan base.
As Brad explains the decision in his own words;
“My time at Basingstoke has finally come to an end. It feels weird even typing it out. We all go through changes in life, and there’s been a fair few in mine. As such; I’m looking to move back to London to be closer to family & friends. Whilst it will take a bit of time to organise, I don’t want to leave the club mid-season – it wouldn’t be fair on anyone.”
“To Browns & Aaron in particular – thank you for everything you have done for me throughout our time together. From playing in those difficult days at Winchester to being crowned Treble winners. It wasn’t a bad journey, eh? I’ve no doubt our paths will cross again in the future & I look forward to when it does.
“The club has given me the best memories of my life to-date playing sports and I’m so proud and happy to have been apart of it. It’s hard to put into words the gratitude I have, not only for the club but for everyone involved in it. From the Chairman, to the back office, to the management & players – but most importantly the fans. You’ve made my time at this club so incredible. Hopefully my involvement gave you a few lasting memories along the way. It really is such a special club.”
Brad was known for scoring spectacular goals. His final goal for the club was a stunning 30-yard strike in the Cup Final, helping us secure our fourth trophy in two seasons. Among his memorable goals, his 20-yard volley against Sutton Common Rovers stands out. A remarkable strike. He also scored two crucial goals on the final day of the league season, clinching a dramatic league title for us. But many will remember with the greatest fondness his last-minute winner in the Hampshire Cup Final against Bournemouth at Fratton Park, capping off our most successful season ever.
As Dan Brownlie notes:
“Its important to remember that Brad joined us during our darkest period. I’m incredibly proud of his development both on and off the pitch. When you compare the boy who walked through our doors to the man that now walks out of them – they’re almost unrecognisable. His trajectory over the years is something he and we should be really proud of. He was formidable during our treble winning year and because of it – his name will remain on the lips of supporters for decades. He’ll go down as one of our most important players. Awful tweeter, terrible singing voice but the kid can play football.”
“We’re of course disappointed to lose Brad, there’s no question about that. His reasoning is sound however – he leaves on the best of terms with everyone at the club. I know how much he loves this Club and the people within it. Who knows what the future holds; and maybe one day we’ll see him again so he can chase down the clubs top scorer record.”
“He’s been a part of so many magical moments in his years with us. The boys also gave him the perfect platform. The culture of our changing room allowed Brad to be Brad and what they achieved together will have created relationships that last a lifetime. It’s been a true pleasure to work with him and I’m very proud of what we achieved during his time with us.”
We thank Brad for his dedication and contributions, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavours. We look forward to welcoming him back to Winklebury as our guest.
Pilson, over and out.