Club Overview
4
Full Name: Worthing Football Club
Nickname: The Rebels, The Reds
Founded: 1886
League: National League
Ground: Sussex Transport Community Stadium (Woodside Road)
Location: Worthing, West Sussex
Colours: Red & White
Worthing FC are one of the fastest-rising clubs in English football. Founded in 1886, the Rebels spent much of their history in Sussex and Isthmian League football before embarking on a remarkable rise through the non-league pyramid. Under the ownership of George Dowell, the club has transformed both on and off the pitch, achieving promotions, major ground improvements and record attendances. Their promotion to the National League in 2026 marked the highest level the club has ever reached.
Quick Facts
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1886 |
| Nickname | The Rebels |
| Ground | Sussex Transport Community Stadium |
| Capacity | 4,000+ |
| Postcode | BN14 7HQ |
| League | National League |
| Club Colours | Red & White |
| Surface | 3G Artificial Pitch |
Worthing have played at Woodside Road since the early 20th century and have invested heavily in developing the ground, including new stands and increased capacity in recent years.
Stadium Guide
Sussex Transport Community Stadium (Woodside Road)
Ground Information
- Capacity: 4,000+
- Surface: 3G Artificial Pitch
- Address: Woodside Road, Worthing, West Sussex, BN14 7HQ
- Home of Worthing FC
Woodside Road is one of the most improved grounds in non-league football. Recent redevelopment has included a new West Stand and a large North Stand, significantly increasing capacity and improving the matchday experience.
Record Attendance
4,002 vs Ebbsfleet United
National League South title decider, April 2026.
Stadium Highlights
- New North Stand
- West Stand
- Modern clubhouse and sports bar
- Community facilities
- 3G playing surface
Club History
Worthing FC was founded in 1886 and is one of the oldest football clubs on the South Coast. The club were founder members of the Sussex County League and enjoyed considerable success in regional football throughout the early and mid-20th century.
For many years Worthing competed in the Isthmian League and became known as one of Sussex’s leading non-league clubs. However, the modern era has seen unprecedented growth.
A major turning point came in 2015 when former player George Dowell purchased the club. Under his ownership, Worthing achieved multiple promotions, improved facilities and dramatically increased attendances. The club reached National League South in 2022, the highest level in its history at that time.
After several near misses, including defeat in the 2024 National League South Play-Off Final against Braintree Town, Worthing finally secured historic promotion to the National League in 2026 by winning the National League South title.
Honours
League Honours
- National League South Champions (2025/26)
- Isthmian League Premier Division Champions
- Sussex County League Champions (multiple times)
Cup Honours
- Sussex Senior Cup Winners (multiple times)
- Isthmian League Cup Winners
The 2026 National League South title is widely regarded as the greatest achievement in the club’s history.
Club Records
| Record | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1886 |
| Ground Capacity | 4,000+ |
| Record Attendance | 4,002 |
| Highest League Level | National League |
| Home Ground | Woodside Road |
| Promotion to National League | 2026 |
Famous Players
- George Dowell
- Omar Bugiel
- Ricky Aguiar
- Danny Cashman
- Joel Colbran
Several players have played important roles in the club’s rise through the divisions, while owner George Dowell remains one of the most influential figures in Worthing’s modern history.
Rivalries
Main Rivals
- Horsham FC
- Eastbourne Borough
- Lewes FC
- Brighton & Hove Albion (local interest)
- Crawley Town (regional interest)
Fixtures against fellow Sussex clubs often attract large crowds and create some of the best atmospheres of the season.
Matchday Guide
Getting There
By Train
- Worthing Railway Station is approximately 15 minutes’ walk from the stadium.
By Car
- Accessible via the A27 and A24.
- Local parking available around the ground.
Food & Drink
- Sports Bar & Café
- Matchday food kiosks
- Clubhouse facilities
Nearby Attractions
- Worthing Pier
- Worthing Seafront
- South Downs National Park
- Highdown Gardens
Worthing offers one of the most attractive seaside away days in the National League.
What Makes Worthing Special?
The George Dowell Story
After a life-changing accident ended his playing career, George Dowell purchased the club and transformed it from a struggling non-league side into a National League club. His story has become one of the most inspiring in English football.
Rapid Rise Through the Pyramid
Few clubs have progressed as quickly in recent years as Worthing. Multiple promotions and ambitious infrastructure projects have established the Rebels as one of non-league football’s most exciting clubs.
Community Focus
Worthing’s growth has been built around community engagement, youth development and sustainable progress rather than short-term spending.