LeamingtonFC.co.uk

Leamington FC can confirm that main commentator Matt Delaney has joined Birmingham City as lead commentator for Blues TV.

Delaney originally started off co-commentating on Leamington FCTV but quickly assumed the role of lead commentator for our Vanarama National League North game against York City on October 14 2017. Since then, Matt has been the voice of the club having commentated over our two Birmingham Senior Cup Final victories and five successful National League North seasons.

Ahead of our FA Trophy tie at Concord Rangers in 2020, Matt set up BrakesLiveFM - our free to air commentary station - and was also the voice to Leamington FCTV Live in the 2020/21 behind closed doors season due to Covid-19, and also provided live radio commentary that season from our away FA Trophy win at National League Wrexham. Matt leaves with everyone's best wishes for a successful career.

Brakes Chairman, Jim Scott said "We are delighted that Matt has been able to realise his ambition of being a match commentator within professional football. We thank him for his services these past four and a half years and I am sure all Brakes fans will agree with me that he has been excellent in his match commentary role for our club. It was clear that he had a talent for the job and it will not surprise me if the new role on ‘Blues TV’ is merely another step in his ambition to be a full time commentator within the media.

Whilst we are disappointed to be losing Matt his departure opens the door for someone else to step into his shoes and we will shortly be advertising the volunteer role. As a club it gives us great pleasure that we have been able to provide an opportunity for someone to gain experience and progress in their career pathway. We wish Matt every success in his new role"

On his departure, Delaney paid tribute to everyone at Leamington saying "I leave the club with a heavy heart after 4 years. Since the second I walked through the door, everyone from the fans, players, coaching staff and volunteers have been nothing but welcoming and made me feel at ease in my first ever commentary role. Leamington allowed me to achieve my dream of being a match commentator, trusting me by giving me full reign of each broadcast. I’ve been privileged to put my own audio wallpaper on so many memorable moments, including both Colby and Devon’s worldies in the BSC Finals, the comeback against Alfreton and our penultimate day survival vs York City. I set up BrakesLiveFM and would like to say thanks for all the comments from everyone who has tuned in. I’ve made memories that will last forever at this club and hope I’ve done justice to the special moments on the pitch. As always, up the Brakes."

Head of Media, Max Passantino added "This is a fantastic opportunity for Matt and one that he absolutely deserves. He's been a perfect voice for the club for the past five or so years and has helped bring some special moments to life. His commentary, matched with Nick and Scott's highlights package combined really specially to make the best highlights in non-league. I have appreciated all the help and advice he has given to me, and enjoyed my season on the gantry with him and Shaun. Everyone in the LFC media team wishes Matt the best and look forward to seeing what the future holds!"

Anyone interested in fulfilling the voluntary role of match commentator for the 2022/23 season ahead can contact Jim Scott via email - jim.scott@leamingtonfc.co.uk

Read more: Weaver moves on

We are delighted to announce that Simeon Maye has committed to Paul Holleran's 2022/23 side. The midfielder signed for the Brakes in the summer of 2020 from Brackley Town and has since made 27 appearances, with his tally last season cut to nine games as he unfortunately suffered a setback in the form of a long term leg injury which occurred in our FA Cup tie against Kettering in October.

Simeon played his first 90 minutes since that game as we travelled to Halesowen at the weekend and Paul Holleran was happy to have Sim back in his squad, saying "I'm delighted that Sim has re-signed. He's had a tough journey this last year or so but he has worked really hard to get back and gradually through pre-season we have been able to increase his minutes and it led to him playing his first 90 on Saturday since his injury. We're really happy to be keeping him heading into the new season."

Due to the expected high temperatures due to the heatwave, this Saturday's pre-season friendly against Aston Villa XI will now kick off at 1pm instead of 3pm.

Tickets for this fixture can be purchased on our online ticket portal or alternatively with cash or card at the gate.