Aylesbury United Football Club, nicknamed “The Ducks,” is a non-league football club based in Chesham, Buckinghamshire.
Established in 1897, they currently compete in the Pitching In Southern Football League Division One Central, which is part of the eighth tier of English football. The team calls The Meadow their home ground.
The club’s journey began in local leagues, progressing to the Spartan League in 1908. A significant early achievement was reaching the FA Cup First Round Proper in 1951, a first for a Delphian League team. The club turned semi-professional in 1976, joining the Southern League and entering its most successful era under managers like Trevor Gould and players like Cliff Hercules, the club’s record appearance holder and goal scorer. They won the Southern League Championship in 1987-88 and briefly played in the GM Vauxhall Conference.
The Ducks had a strong FA Cup presence between 1985 and 1992, including a notable run to the Third Round in 1994-95. Financial difficulties and management changes marked the late 1990s and 2000s, leading to relegations and the loss of their home ground. Despite these hallenges, they secured promotions and cup successes, including the Spartan League Premier Division Cup in 2012-13.
Recent years have seen fluctuating league performances, managerial turnovers, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The club’s 125th anniversary in 2022-23 concluded with securing another season in the Southern League under manager Jack Wells, demonstrating resilience amidst challenges.