Waddock hopes Wealdstone’s Wembley run can lure new signings to Grosvenor Vale

Wealdstone boss Gary Waddock believes last season’s surprise run to the FA Trophy final can give his squad renewed belief heading into the new campaign, while also helping to convince potential signings that Grosvenor Vale is the right destination.

According to The Non-League Football Paper, the Stones finished 15th in the National League last season but enjoyed a memorable cup run that ended in a first trip to Wembley for the club in years.

A remarkable route to Wembley

Wealdstone knocked out Cheshunt, Dagenham & Redbridge, Forest Green Rovers, Kidderminster Harriers and Marine on their way to the final, seeing off five sides from across the non-league pyramid to book their place at Wembley.

They ultimately faced Southend United in the showpiece, with the occasion marking Wealdstone’s first appearance at the national stadium in a considerable time, a run that captured attention across non-league circles.

Waddock eyeing new arrivals

Waddock, pictured alongside chairman Rory Fitzgerald in The Non-League Football Paper, is hopeful that the profile brought by the cup run will help persuade new recruits to join the club ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Having guided the Stones to a mid-table finish domestically while overseeing a genuine cup adventure, the manager appears keen to use last term’s momentum as a selling point during pre-season planning.

The Non-League Football Paper reports that Wealdstone will be aiming to build on that Wembley experience as they look to push higher up the National League table in the campaign ahead.

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