East Cowes Victoria have confirmed the departure of ‘promising’ Isle of Wight striker Jake Scrimshaw, whose football career once appeared destined for far higher levels.
Although the announcement was only made yesterday (Wednesday), Scrimshaw’s exit had been expected for some time following his substitution in the Isle of Wight Gold Cup semi-final against Newport last month, which proved to be his final appearance for the club.
The 25-year-old Ryde-born forward joined East Cowes Victoria in October 2025 and scored 4 goals in 13 appearances during his time at Beatrice Avenue. His most notable moments in a Vics shirt included a winning goal against Andover New Street and a brace in a convincing victory over Hamworthy Recreation.
Scrimshaw was once regarded as one of the most promising footballers to emerge from the Isle of Wight in recent years. After attending Ryde Academy, he joined the academy at AFC Bournemouth as a teenager and later signed professional terms with the Premier League club.
A prolific spell on loan with Poole Town saw him score 17 goals in 23 appearances in all competitions, prompting hopes that he could break through into the professional game.
During his time under contract with Bournemouth he gained experience through loan spells with Walsall, Newport County and Scunthorpe United, making appearances in League Two and scoring goals during spells with Newport and Scunthorpe.
However, after leaving Bournemouth in 2022 his career moved into non-league football with a number of south coast clubs including Yeovil Town, Eastleigh, AFC Totton, Gosport Borough, Poole Town and Weymouth.
Earlier this season, Scrimshaw featured for Downton before signing for AFC Stoneham prior to his move to East Cowes Victoria.
Despite the twists and turns of his club career, one of Scrimshaw’s standout achievements came in 2023 when he represented the Isle of Wight at the Island Games in Guernsey. The forward struck 7 goals during the tournament to claim the Golden Boot as the competition’s leading scorer.
East Cowes Victoria Football Club has said:
“East Cowes Vics can confirm that Jake Scrimshaw has departed the club.
“Jake contributed 4 goals in 13 appearances during his time with us, always showing an excellent work ethic on the pitch.
“The winner against Andover New Street and brace vs Hamworthy Recreation were particular highlights and we’d like to put on record our thanks for his professionalism and efforts during his spell at the club.”
It is not currently known where Scrimshaw will play next following his departure from East Cowes Victoria.
This is so poor! For someone who’s mental health is probably already in the pits…
No need to kick a man while they’re down!
Hang your head in shame island echo