Football Focus Issue 65 | Page 28

Darlington Railway Athletic FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/FOOTYFOCUSMAG Darlington Railway Athletic FOOTBALL CLUB B ased on Brinkburn Road, Darlington Railway Athletic FC was first established in 1919 and their first team currently competes in Division Two of the Northern League. Over the years they have put together a history of which they have every right to be proud with one of their finest moments coming in 2005 when they managed to win the Wearside League. This saw them promoted to the Northern League and the following year they finished 3rd to make it to the First Division. Although they were unable to establish themselves at that level they have continued to be a consistent performer in Division Two. 28 Issue 65 After finishing in 13th place last season they have been working hard to improve during the off-season in order to push on up the table. The new campaign started with an unfortunate 4-3 defeat to Willington but they have since picked up their first win with a convincing 4-1 victory over Brandon. Football Focus Magazine recently caught up with their Chairman Doug Hawman to find out more about the club. He told us, “I have been Chairman for twelve seasons and Treasurer for about seven. The most challenging part of the role is keeping the club afloat on minimal incomings and outgoings. “We have no playing budget but the players receive expenses when they use their cars for away games. The most rewarding thing is continually punching above our weight, being competitive and of course winning a game. “The atmosphere here is positive. With a new Manager, practically a new team