Wood is back for the new season

Centre back and captain in the closing part of the 2025/26 campaign, Matt Wood, has remained at Ladysmead.

A powerful and influential presence on the field, the ex Bath University skipper demonstrated his leadership skills in an often challenging season. 

He was appointed as Vice Captain at the beginning of it by Asa Hall. Then in extremely difficult circumstances, stepping up to take the armband, with Toby Down moving on and the disruptive exodus of other key players.

Reflecting with our media team, he said, “It was a really proud moment for me and my family to get the captaincy, with Tiverton being such a big club in Devon. It was a difficult time. There were lots of changes in the squad and behind the scenes.”

A mainstay who stayed loyal to the cause, he dealt admirably with Tiverton’s plight and became a respected figure both on and off the pitch, winning the Player's Player award for 25/26. Formerly with Frome and Willand, he made 39 appearances in all competitions.

Positive results were fairly scarce, but he was able to savour a particularly memorable moment in the run-in, when the Yellows defeated Hungerford. 

“Yeah, it was brilliant, we definitely celebrated that, it was a change of feeling. We were at it that day, and it was good to get some goals in front of the home crowd”

Wood was philosophical in talking about the mentality of football and last season’s experience, and had this to say. 

“Every season you learn from the previous ones, and at step three as a defender, you definitely do get punished for your mistakes or lack of concentration. Having that experience builds a better performance from me.”

With the announcement of the pre-season fixtures, there is one that the skipper is relishing; locking horns once again with Taunton and said… 

“It’s going to be a great day. Each game, there was a big crowd, and it was really exciting for the players. We also got the win last time they were here.

The 24-year-old, whose childhood was spent in the local area and now lives on the outskirts of Exeter, will undoubtedly play a big part in the new dressing room this term.

The skipper had this message for the supporters, for the 2026/27 campaign. 

“Please come along. We do hear you on the pitch; it really does motivate us.”

Welcome back Matt!