OPPOSITION FOCUS | Horsham FC (H)

Written by Ollie Heathcote

The Key Info

Founded: 1871

Nickname: The Hornets

Manager: Dominic Di Paola

Stadium: Fusion Aviation Community Stadium

Capacity: 3000

The History

Horsham FC’s history can be traced back to 1871, despite their reformation in 1881. The Hornets contain a rich history, being founding members of both the Sussex County FA and the West Sussex Senior League. After winning this division on three occasions at the turn of the century, the future looked bright for Horsham.

They moved into Queen Street, playing their games there until 2008. Throughout their history, Horsham have experienced both promotion and relegation, most notably after joining the Athenian League in the 1960s. Most recently, Horsham FC have been known for their FA Cup run in the 2023/24 season, reaching the Second Round - equalling the furthest they have gone in the competition after the 2007/08 season. Having been promoted to the National League South, Horsham have started incredibly well as they sit two points ahead of the Tudors in 5th place.

The Manager: Dominic Di Paola

Dominic Di Paola is a name which will be well-known to the Horsham faithful, having been in charge of the Hornets for a decade heading into the season. After just three months in his first job at Hastings United, Di Paola joined a Horsham side who had been relegated to the County Leagues for the first time since 1956. Having the task of rebuilding this side, Di Paola has been exceptional throughout his time as manager, guiding the Hornets back up the non-league pyramid, whilst also helping to advance the club in the FA Trophy and FA Cup to their furthest progressions in history. Di Paola will look to build upon his hard work ahead of this season, having recently been announced as Manager of the Season for last season’s Isthmian League Premier campaign.

The Skipper: Jack Brivio

Joining the Hornets in September 2018, Jack Brivio has shown a great sense of loyalty, with manager Dominic Di Paola describing him as a “legend” and “the most successful captain in the club’s history”. Brivio has previously represented Burgess Hill Town and Tonbridge Angels before joining Horsham, with the midfielder leading the Hornets to cup victories as well as being voted the Player of the Season for the 2019/20 season.

Horsham’s last five fixtures have seen the Hornets show their ability to not be beaten easily, which has been key to their push to 5th place in the table. Whilst they have drawn twice at home to Hampton & Richmond and Dover Athletic, Horsham have been impressive in their last 5 games with an unbeaten record as well as advancing to the 3rd round of the FA Trophy. This unbeaten record stretches to September, with their most recent defeat coming against AFC Totton on the 20th September.

🟢 WIN 2-0 vs Farnham (FA Trophy) 15/11

🟡 DRAW 0-0 vs Hampton & Richmond 11/11

🟢 WIN 1-0 vs Slough Town 8/11

🟡 DRAW 1-1 vs Dover Athletic 4/11

🟢 WIN 0-2 vs Bath City 1/11

Name: Reece Meekums

Joined: July 2024

Position: Winger

Reece Meekums was a key asset in Horsham’s Isthmian League Premier Division triumph, contributing with some important goals. Having originally signed for the Hornets on a dual-registration from Worthing, he has grown into life as a Horsham player as he has 3 goals this season. He has been a consistent starter for the Hornets this season as he has played in all of Horsham’s 18 league games.

Name: Rhys Murphy

Joined: July 2025

Position: Striker

The signing of Rhys Murphy this summer has been seen as a coup for Horsham with the striker being no stranger to the non-league scene. Having previously represented Dorking Wanderers and Yeovil at this level, Murphy has established himself as a goalscorer, with 41 goals in 98 National League South appearances. He has 2 goals so far this season, with the striker being on the radar of different defences across the division.

Name: James Hammond

Joined: July 2023

Position: Midfielder

Joining the Hornets from Eastbourne Borough, James Hammond has started this season in fine form with 6 goal contributions in 18 league appearances - an average of a goal contribution in 3 games. He has been a consistent starter in this Horsham side as his creative ability has proved a key threat this season. Operating as a midfielder, Hammond is able to link defence to attack, which has been a key reason to Horsham’s electric start to this season.