HISTORY MADE: Saints Southwest Launches First Official Franchise – Meet Drew Stride

Saints Southwest
5 days ago
3 min read

Picture: Mark Titchard Saint Southwest Director and Drew Stride, Somerset Lead and South Somerset Franchisee

Saints Southwest has officially launched its first-ever franchise, and leading the charge is one of our own.

🎉 Congratulations to Drew Stride, our Somerset Lead and Head Coach, who is now the proud owner of the Saints Southwest South Somerset Franchise, covering key areas Yeovil, Chard, Ilminster and Langport.

This is a massive moment in Saints Southwest history. The start of a new chapter.And the best part? It’s only the beginning.

Why Drew? Because he lives and breathes Saints Southwest and our Values.

From day one, Drew has been a driving force behind our programmes. Whether it’s delivering curriculum PE in schools, building buzzing community football sessions, or supporting young players through our Development and Academy pathways, Drew has always done it with passion, pride, and relentless positivity.

He’s not just a coach, he’s a leader, mentor, and role model. A true product of the Saints Southwest DNA.

Now, he’ll continue in his full-time role AND grow his own Saints Southwest territory, creating more opportunities for young people and families across South Somerset.

💬 Drew’s Words

"I’m incredibly proud to launch and be the South Somerset franchise. Coaching, development and working within the Community have always been close to my heart, and this gives me a chance to build something of my own while continuing to grow what we’ve already achieved at Saints Southwest. I can’t wait to work even deeper in local communities, connect with more schools and families, and build community football centres and holiday camps across key areas of the South Somerset District Yeovil, Chard, Langport and Ilminster. This is a huge opportunity and I can't wait to getting started!"

A Landmark Moment

This is more than just a business move, it’s a signal of what’s to come.

We’re building a movement of people who want to lead, coach, grow, and inspire under the Saints Southwest brand and Drew is the first of many.

🙌 A Message from the Director, Mark Titchard

"Drew becoming our first official franchisee is a moment of real pride for everyone involved at Saints Southwest, we are all one big team and we celebrate this moment together. He’s worked his way up, led by example, and now he’s turning that leadership into something powerful in his own community.This model is about empowering people with the tools, support and brand strength they need to succeed, and Drew is showing exactly what’s possible.We are all right behind him, and we can’t wait to see others follow in his footsteps."

🚀 Want to be next? Franchise Opportunities Are Now Open.

If you love football.If you love coaching.If you believe in making a difference and building something of your own. This is your time.

We’re actively looking for passionate, driven individuals ready to launch their own full-time or part-time Saints Southwest franchise across the South West.