SUPER SAM STAYS PUT!

Aberystwyth Town Football Club are delighted to confirm that standout defender and reigning Players' Player and Management Player of the Season, Sam Paddock, has extended his contract at the Club through the upcoming 2026/27 season!

23-year-old Sam joined the Black and Greens in June 2025 from Midland League Premier Division side Atherstone Town having previously come through the ranks at Hednesford Town.

Sam impressed from the very start of preseason, displaying his defensive solidity and eye for an inch-perfect cross-field pass! He immediately became an integral part of the defensive unit throughout the season, making 28 appearances in all competitions — a number of which toward the end of the season as captain.

His performances earned him two awards last month at the Club's end-of-season dinner, taking home the Players' Player and Management Player of the Season awards.

Returning for his second season at Aberystwyth University Park Avenue Stadium, Sam figures to play a crucial role in Craig Williams' squad for the 2026/27 campaign.

Sam told us:

"I'm over the moon to re-sign with Aber for my second season here. It’s something that was on my mind really as soon as the season finished that Aber was somewhere I wanted to continue my journey. I said last season that Aber was a place I planned to call home, and that’s exactly how it feels and how it felt almost straight away.

Last season was one full of ups and downs for the club, with us falling short of our goal of promotion. On a personal note, it was a season that made me enjoy football again. I couldn’t believe how well I was treated by the fans, the club and the lads. Being an outsider, really, it felt surreal being wanted and made to feel important.

Getting two of the awards at the end of the season topped this off. I love this club and it means a hell of a lot to me. I know, from speaking to fans and local lads, how important the club is to everyone around it.

Our goal is simple this year: we want that top spot, and myself and the lads will give our all to ensure we get it. It won’t be easy and there will certainly be some tough challenges along the way, but I’m confident we can get this club back to where it belongs. Aber Fel Un! 💚"

Manager Craig Williams commented:

"Fantastic to have Sam back with us for next season. He was brilliant for us last year, very consistent, and deservedly picked up his two awards. I’m looking forward to seeing him go from strength to strength, and he will be a big part of what we’re hoping to achieve at Aberystwyth Town."