aka matty adams
Where did you start your career? Did you play youth football?
I started playing football during my time at St Peter’s Primary School. I loved it from the start, but I was no natural. I enjoyed being in a team with my mates and skiving off school early to play a match. Any excuse to miss a lesson was a hit with me. The football pitch was my preference over the classroom.
Who got you into football and who were your influences when playing?
There wasn’t a specific person who introduced me to football – it was playing street football that ignited my passion. Most days followed the same pattern: I’d race home and head straight out to join my mates for a kickabout. Eric Cantona was my hero, and I became a die-hard Manchester United fan in the early 90’s. Visiting Old Trafford around the age of 13, I watched United thrash West Ham 4-1. That moment sealed the deal—I was completely hooked.
Can you tell us about your time at Ramsgate FC?
At 15, I joined Ramsgate FC’s youth sector after a brief stint with Margate. Tall and slim, I spent most of my time on the bench but gained invaluable insights from watching the team in action. Whenever I did get on the pitch I often took a beating but was determined to work hard for every minute of play. My blonde quiff earned me the nickname ‘Tin Tin’ – not exactly my finest hairstyle moment.
At 16, during a beach run with the reserve team, Danny Ward attended our session and offered me a spot on the first team bench. I never dreamed I’d get to play, but I ended up scoring the equaliser against Folkestone. By then, I’d filled out and started building physical strength. Ramsgate FC was brimming with talent, winning leagues and cups. Though I was part of that success, I struggled to secure a regular spot because of my wavering commitment to training and weekend antics. The management wasn’t impressed by my lack of discipline, but I was young and naive.
Do you still have connections with the club?
These days, I’m an assistant coach for my son’s U14 Kent League team at Ramsgate FC. They’re a fantastic group of lads with incredible talent. While I occasionally catch the first team in action, life and work often keep me occupied. I’m a huge Ramsgate fan and love the direction the club is going in. The development of the youth is massive and that’s impressive to see. Both my sons play for Ramsgate.
Your Sunday league career was incredible and you, in your words, “completed it” – winning everything there is to win in Sunday league football. Can you tell us a bit about your career highlights?
My first highlight was winning the Kent Junior Cup in the Sunday League when I was 17. I played alongside some top players, including Lee Minshull who went on to play for Newport County. That gave me the bug for getting trophies.
Another highlight was playing for the Dolphin FC. We had a great eclectic mix of ages in that team and varying levels of experience – the new kids brought in enthusiasm and energy and the older guys led the way in the games. Game days were exciting. Everyone got pumped up and then the aftermath was messy. Pranks, songs, poker nights, a lot of time spent propped up against the Dolphin top bar! It was brilliant playing alongside my best mates.
The pinnacle of my Sunday League career was winning the Kent Cup with Bradstow. For years we dominated challenge cups and racked up doubles and trebles, but the Kent Cup always seemed out of reach. That changed in 2018, when an extraordinary run of form carried us to the final. We ended up in the first ever all-Thanet showdown against Drinks Warehouse, the heat was intense, and whilst our performance wasn’t our best, we got the win. The celebrations were unforgettable, culminating in a team trip to Portugal.
Another unforgettable chapter was my return to Ramsgate FC after an eight-year break. Plucked from Sunday League to help the team avoid relegation, I played my part in a 10-game survival push. Nicknamed “Grizzly” for my beard, I’ll never forget the standing ovation from fans at our last home game of the season. That moment will forever hold a place in my heart.
The most emotionally significant experience, however, came with The Bears – a team formed by a good friend, Luke Williams, during his battle with cancer. That season was unlike any other. The dressing room talks were raw and heartfelt, and every game we played was for Luke. His passing was a huge loss, but the memories we built together and the bond we shared as a team will always stay with me.
What stopped you from playing?
In 2001, during a Sunday League game against Rising Sun, I fell foul to a knee clash. A few of the lads helped me off and took me home where I spent the day on the sofa, assuming it was a ligament issue. Two days later, I was given a stern talking to by the staff in A&E after an X-ray revealed a clean tibia snap. I had an operation and spent 10 days in hospital. Luckily, I’ve made a full recovery and feel stronger than ever, but my playing days are over… for good.
What do you like to do in your free time?
On my days off, it’s all about the kids. Like most parents with sport-obsessed children, I spend plenty of time as a taxi service. I get my football fix by watching my boys play and taking them to as many matches as I can. When football season winds down, they switch to cricket. I enjoy sitting in the sun, not really knowing what’s going on, but they seem to enjoy it!
What do you do away from football?
I run a barbering business in Broadstairs with an amazing group of lads. The shop is a hub for football fanatics. A few of the boys still play and there’s been whispers of a Malcolms Sunday League team being formed, but we shall see.
Were there any players that stood out to you during your career who were another level?
Over the years I’ve had the privilege of sharing the pitch with some of the finest local players. While it’s impossible to name them all, a few stand out. Aaron Robinson comes to mind for his finishing, always followed by unforgettable celebrations. Joe Taylor, who grew up playing alongside my brother, displayed immense talent from a young age. And then there’s Paul Downer. He had a knack for bringing out the best in me, often making me look like a far better player than I actually was! Three incredible players.
Your sons have followed in your footsteps and are amazing players. Do you feel your influence turned them towards a footballing career?
Absolutely. I’m passionate about football, from the tactical points to the intricate details, and I’m fascinated by the development side of the game. My boys have been immersed in all of this since they could walk. I’ve always encouraged them to strive for their best, to learn from the talented players they play alongside, and most importantly, to enjoy the game.
Do you still play?
No, my playing days are done.
Do you miss playing every week?
No! That leg break brings a tear to my eye just thinking about it!
Do you feel Sunday league football, and the team bonding and camaraderie, are pivotal in development as a player?
Sunday League football, for me, was all about having a laugh with mates, embracing the journey as a team, and clearing my head. It’s a form of therapy for many, and it definitely was for me during my younger years. Did it improve my game? Absolutely – it allowed me to play with freedom and express myself without the weight of expectation.
