Watch it here – https://youtu.be/BK0D9Dwd1PE

LUKE BAPTISTE discusses his decision to extend his contract with Dover Athletic. He reflects on his football journey and developing under Mike Sandmann.

Luke acknowledges the club’s recent tough times but feels optimistic due to the positive changes and efforts by Jake to build a strong squad and engage the community. Luke shares how experiencing a losing streak in the National League was tough but educational. He learned the value of winning and now recognizes the positive changes in the team dynamics and performance.

Looking ahead, Luke expresses confidence in the current team and aims to push for success with club.

Watch it here: https://youtu.be/p-lJFR7a80E

ENIYE AMGBADUBA knows all about battling adversity and coming through for the better.

For the new Dover striker five years ago was bravely fighting for his life in hospital.

Eniye unfortunately suffered with sepsis and compartment syndrome. 

He spent a month at the William Harvey, Ashford, and was in a coma for three or four days.

Eniye, 26, speaking to Justin Allen in an interview at Crabble, said: “I have to give a big shoutout to my family and friends because they saved my life.

“I was young and didn’t really want to go to hospital because I am one of those people who thought ‘I’d just deal with it when I’m feeling sick.’

“But they forced me to go and I had surgery on my leg with some muscles removed.

“It gave me a new perspective on life and made me appreciate it a lot more. I’m a much more chilled out person.”

His experience in hospital was sobering as he sadly witnessed people who had passed away being wheeled out of his ward.

Eniye added: “I went to sleep twice in a coma and when I woke up the first time I was looking around and saw people getting wheeled out after passing. That was a huge shock to me.

“I didn’t react well and had to be put back to sleep. Hospital is a humbling place. Thank God, I got through to the other end and I’m able to play football again.”

Tall and physical Eniye was signed by Whites boss Jake Leberl, having spent last season at Fisher FC, who play two tiers down from Dover and he has also played for Canterbury City.

 Eniye scored on his home debut in the 5-1 win over Ramsgate on Saturday and he also played a huge part in the lead-up to George Nikaj’s goal.

He said: “I’m so grateful for this chance. It’s a great stadium, good squad and good coaches.”

It isn’t long to go now until Jake Leberl’s team of legends and staff take on a supporters XI in a fundraiser for the club. 

This game will mark game 2 of the weekend, as the Dover Athletic first team came out on top against a weakened Ramsgate side, winning 5-1. The Whites have also just confirmed the signing of three attacking players who have trialed with the club so far this preseason, but all the attention tomorrow will be on some of Dover’s ex players and legends.

On Jake Leberl’s team, the likes of Tom Wynter will be playing. Wynter played for Dover in their 0-4 FA Cup defeat at home to Crystal Palace, but will be looking for a much better result tomorrow! 

Also, the fan favourite, legendary striker Ricky Miller will be playing in Jake’s XI. Miller scored 68 in 101 appearances for Dover, can he score one last time in this fundraiser for the club?

Various other legends and members of the current Dover Athletic staff will be taking part in this match, which kicks off at 16:30.

Fans can also enjoy the UEFA Euros Final in the Centre Spot after the fundraiser game, with the match being shown on the screens inside. 

It’s set to be a cracking day’s worth of football at Crabble stadium tomorrow, with plenty on offer for all fans.

Players for Jake’s team include: Paul Hyde, Matt Carruthers, Roy Godden, James Rogers, Jimmy Dryden, Tom Wynter, Ricky Miller, Mike Sandmann and our youth team coaches. Clive Walker in the dugout. All players will be revealed tomorrow.

Dover Athletic are delighted to announce the signings of:

Lindell Stewart

The former Sutton Common Rovers man has also played for Northwood FC and Windsor FC, scoring 16 goals in 30 appearances in the 21/22 season.

Jayden Silcott-Brown

Previous clubs include FC Romania and Romford FC. During the 2023-2024 season, he played for Redbridge FC in the Isthmian League North Division.

Ruben Soares-Junior

Last season, Ruben played for Billericay and local rivals Folkestone Invicta. He’s previously featured for Tonbridge Angels, playing 37 National League South games – scoring 7 goals. His former clubs also include Scottish Championship side Queen of the South.

Our latest signings are now available to sponsor! Home: £100 | Away : £90 | Both: £180. Get a match worn shirt, meet your player, & more! For more information click here: https://doverathletic.com/sponsorship-packages/

Watch it here: https://youtu.be/hURWX9YUxbs

JAKE LEBERL in the final part of his interview, discusses the challenges and rewards of managing the team. He expresses gratitude to his supportive backroom team and an appreciation for the volunteers and employees who keep the club running smoothly.

Jake talks about his commitment to integrating the youth side into the club, providing opportunities for local boys. Leberl urges fans to return and support the team, acknowledging past issues but emphasizing a new, dedicated leadership focused on rebuilding and creating excitement.

Jake promises dedication, hard work, and a fresh start for the club.

“Tomorrow marks the beginning of an exciting new era for our club, kicking off with our first home preseason game of 24/25.

As we welcome Ramsgate to Crabble, I can’t stress enough how important it is for our fans to get behind the town and our club. Your support is the backbone of this club, and together, we can get back to where we want to be.

Thank you to everyone who turned up to the open training session last night and those that made the trips to Sevenoaks and Margate.

Let’s bring the energy and passion tomorrow and make this a season to remember. We need your help to succeed, One Town, One Team, One Dover” – Jake Leberl

Watch it here: https://youtu.be/UC13ZVIZgrc

JAKE LEBERL today in part three of a detailed interview reflects on his time as assistant to legendary boss Chris Kinnear. 

During their time together they got the Whites promoted to the National League, reached the third-round of the FA Cup against Premier League club Crystal Palace and came within a whisker of going up to the EFL. 

Jake also reflects on how the club signed the brilliant Ricky Miller and how Kinnear moulded together a team that knew how to win. 

Kinnear, says Jake, was using tactics that Jurgen Klopp adopted years later. 

In part four, tomorrow morning, Jake has a message for the fans and talks about the brilliant people that work behind the scenes at Crabble.

Dover Athletic are delighted to announce the signing of striker Eniye Amgbaduba. Eniye, formerly of Fisher FC, joined The Fish in the 22/23 season from Canterbury City, and made 53 appearances, notching 14 goals. Eniye has featured in both preseason games against Sevenoaks and Margate so far.

Jake Leberl on our new signing:

We asked Eniye to come in for preseason and he’s done really well, featuring in both our games. He’s another tall lad, a good size and a great guy. He will be able to really affect games with his strength and aerial presence. We are looking forward to giving him a chance at this level, and we know he will grab the opportunity to step up. 

Jake Leberl

Welcome to Crabble, Eniye.

The Whites are on the lookout for a volunteer Camera Operator to join our Media Team.

We are looking for a volunteer Camera Operator to work as part of the Media Team filming match days on an ad hoc basis. You will be responsible for the set up and operation of our video camera, capturing the whole game on a match day. You will need to be able to track the play and provide usable footage for a highlights package which is published following each game.

Good technical skills or an interest in cameras is essential. The role would be well suited to a student interested in media / broadcast looking to gain hands on experience.

Free entry and a free meal will be provided for the candidate.

Volunteers are a vital component of the running of the Club, and we remain incredibly grateful for the help we receive.

For anyone interested in the position, please contact [email protected] or pop into the office.

Dover Legend Ricky Miller returns. Miller scored 68 goals in 101 appearances and won the National League Player of the Year,  DAFC Players’ Player of the Season, the Supporters Player of the Season, and the Golden Boot after he finished the 16/17 season with 46 goals, including 40 in the National League.

Clive Walker, who had three spells in charge of Dover Athletic (one as caretaker), will join Jake in the dugout for the game.

With England winning last night, we look forward to screening the Euros Final in the Centre Spot after the game.

We only have THREE spaces left for those interested in playing at Crabble on Sunday 14 July, 4:30pm, £50 entry. In order to play, simply email [email protected] with your shirt size, and the best contact number you can be reached on. Fans are very welcome to attend with admission by way of a donation.

Players for Jake’s team include: Paul Hyde, Matt Carruthers, Roy Godden, James Rogers, Jimmy Dryden, Tom Wynter, Ricky Miller, Mike Sandmann and our youth team coaches. More players will be revealed soon.