After a season without silverware, the Hammers have strengthened and it's clear they mean business. Just ask their manager, David Garbacz.
Competitions entered: We have entered four competitions – the three usual Jewish ones and also the London Sunday Challenge Cup where we have drawn Millwall Albion – to be played November 3
New signings: It is an interesting question – it is more a case of re-signings. Paul Bentley has realised that Hendon is truly in his heart and he has re-signed for us from Oakwood – he is looking very fit and we are absolutely delighted to have him back on board. We are also delighted to welcome yet another magnificent Korman into the squad full time – young Avi Korman who in my opinion will be a massive addition as he is so versatile and strong and can fill in anywhere at the back or in central midfield.
We are also delighted to re-sign two former A teamers back into the fold after some time with the B’s in Tali Nevies and Yishai Last both of whom I expect to feature prominently in the squad this year and they will add great strength in depth which is something we severely lacked last year. We are also working very hard on trying to convince Ben Lauffer to re-sign so watch this space for what would really be a proper coup.
Finally there are a couple of young Maccabiah boys who we have been watching and their agents are currently negotiating terms – at this stage I cannot reveal their identities. In summary, Hendon is (and always will be) a family – we rarely go for outsiders unless they can really bring a lot to the party and that is why we are very happy that our additions this year are all more or less from within yet they will all add enormously to team spirit and general strength in depth
Which of the signings excites you most? Avi Korman is already a contender for young player of the season – I’m hoping Paddy Power will offer some odds – he is magnificent
Have any players left? No players have left – Alex Gilbert is still hoping to feature after at least a year out injured and Alex Nadler is very unlikely to play any sort of significant part. Jacob Gold is going abroad with work commitments for a few months so he will not be available for the first half of the season
Hopes for the season: If we do not win at least one trophy it will have been a disappointing season. As usual our number one priority is the Premier League – last year we were nowhere near our best yet still finished as runners up only a few points behind the deserved winners. With a few small tweaks and much better strength in depth we can make up that difference no problem
Which players would you describe as the 'ones to watch' and why? Yoav Kestenbaum has been a work in progress over the last two years – I believe he is now approaching the finished article and he has the potential to have a massive season – his finishing and fitness have improved dramatically and he possesses a fabulous ability to glide past opponents as if they aren’t there. I also expect very big things from young Avi Korman and we can’t wait to have a rejuvenated and fit again Paul Bentley back in the ranks
Main rivals: Difficult to say really – I can’t see Faithfold being quite as prolific this year but I suppose we’ll find that out after week one. Lions A will be extremely dangerous and if they are there or thereabouts. I’m sure they will make some interesting team selections from the thousands on their books later on in the season. I’m sure Brady will be touted as potential champions as without a bad start last year they would definitely have challenged. For me those are the three biggest dangers
Captain: The evergreen Josh Lipman
Sponsor: Kisharon Charity are our shirt sponsors
Home ground: Hadley (we were unbeaten there last season)
What will your team bring to the league this season? High scoring games, controversy, respect for refs, attacking football, dodgy defending, winners – and the finest managerial quotes in the league
