Defender Joe Hancott has re-joined Newport IW FC after spending 2 years with rival club Cowes Sports FC.
Joe achieved the distinction of becoming Portsmouth FC’s youngest player in post-war history aged just 16 years and 161 days back in August 2017 when he played against Fulham at Fratton Park a week before he received his GCSE results.
Sadly, 2 years later, he sustained a training ground ACL injury before a game against Havant & Waterlooville in the Hampshire Senior Cup and never appeared for Pompey again.
Joe then played for non-league Bognor Regis Town before hanging up his boots in disillusionment at the tender age of just 20.
Hancott rediscovered his enthusiasm for for football when he joined Newport in the 2021/22 season, making 57 appearances over 2 years. He transferred to Cowes Sports in the summer of 2023, playing 44 times for the Yachtsmen over the past 2 seasons.
Newport IW FC have said:
“Hanc has spent a couple of seasons away but is back in the yellow and blue for the coming season. A massive part of our playoff teams in 21/22 and 22/23, let’s hope it’s third time lucky with you back.”
Newport have re-signed most of their squad from the 2024/25 campaign, including player-manager Joe Butcher, captain Maca Watterson, and leading scorer Ji Nash. Further returning players include goalkeeper Leon Pitman, Joe Craig, Michael Thompsett and Henry West.
GEORGE HOLBROOK SIGNS FOR EAST COWES VICTORIA
East Cowes Vics have signed defender George Holbrook from Newport IW FC.
The capture of the 17-year-old – who started in 40 games last season – will further strengthen Vics’ defence, which conceded the fewest goals of any Division 1 side in their promotion campaign.
East Cowes Victoria have said:
“We’re absolutely delighted to announce the signing of George Holbrook for the 2025/26 season.
“George was an integral part of Newport’s team last year, starting 40 games at just 17 years old, as well as representing Eastleigh’s academy. A confident, ambitious, ball playing centre back, who can also play at right back, who will add significant talent to our defensive unit who were the best in the league last season.”
Newport IW FC have magnanimously stated:
“We would like to wish George Holbrook all very the best as he moves on from the club this summer. It’s been a pleasure having you play for the Port and we know you have a great career ahead of you.”
Vics have re-signed the following players from last season: Elliot Wheeler, Rafferty Boyd-Kerr, Aedan Coode, Josh Neale, Jordan Chapman, Liam Triggs, Toby Snow, Harrison Yates and Charlie Hart.
The Victorians have also retained manager Alex Smith and signed Connor Kelly from Cowes Sports, as first reported by Island Echo.
