Chalmers, Black and Cassidy sign Hastings United deals
Two former fan favourites are among three new additions to Ronnie Dolan’s Hastings United squad announced in the past week.
United have agreed a new contract for Tom Chalmers, brought Ollie Black back to the Pilot Field and signed Archie Cassidy from Bromley.
The club said they were dellighted Chalmers had signed a new contract with the club.
They said: “A product of our Academy, Chalmers, 23, is widely regarded as one of the finest talents to emerge from our youth system. After making his first-team debut at just 16 years old, Tom has gone on to play a pivotal role in the club’s recent success, 110 games including helping secure the Isthmian South East League and a return to Step 3 football.
"The club are also proud to confirm that Tom has been appointed Club Captain ahead of the 2026/27 season.”
Chalmers said: “This club means a lot to me, so it’s a real honour to follow in the footsteps of Sammy Adams and captain Hastings United. The supporters were incredible during my recovery, and I’m looking forward to getting back out on the pitch and giving something back to them. I can’t wait for the season to begin.”
Manager Dolan said: “Getting Tom signed was one of the main priorities for myself and the management team ahead of the new season, and I’m delighted we were able to get it done. Keeping Tom at his boyhood club is a huge moment for Hastings United.
“From our very first conversations, it was clear that Tom shares the ambition of what we’re building here. He understands the standards we want to set both on and off the pitch, and having someone of his quality, leadership and connection to this football club is invaluable.
Hear from Ronnie Dolan on how Hastings United are shaping up for the new season – in our new Sussex non-league podcast, out on sussexworld.co.uk and YouTube on Friday.
“Making Tom our club captain was an easy decision. He knows exactly what this badge means, leads by example every single day, and sets the standard for those around him. I’m delighted he’ll be leading Hastings United into this next chapter.”
United are also delighted to welcome Black back, saying: “A product of the club, the versatile defender returns to The Pilot Field following spells with Worthing and Folkestone Invicta.
"Having made over 150 appearances in Hastings United colours, Black was a key member of the side that secured the club’s Isthmian League South East Division title, and his return adds experience, leadership and quality to Ronnie Dolan’s squad.”
Black said: “I’m delighted to be back at my hometown club and can’t wait to get going. It’s a club that means a lot to me, and I’m looking forward to helping bring better times back for the supporters.”
Dolan said: “As soon as I got the manager’s job at Hastings United, Ollie was one of my first phone calls. He had started pre-season with Folkestone, but we’ve stayed in touch throughout
“We had a really good conversation about what he wants to do and what I want us to achieve on the pitch. Ollie will be a key part of that. He can see what we’re building at this football club and is excited to be part of it. I’m absolutely delighted to welcome OB back to Hastings United.”
The club are also pleased with the signing of Cassidy, who joins the Us from Bromley. The tall, imposing left-back spent part of last season on loan at VCD Athletic from the League Two champions. Having attracted interest from a number of clubs this summer, he has chosen The Pilot Field as the next step in his career.
Cassidy said: “I’ve really enjoyed pre-season so far and I’m excited to play my part this season at such a big non-league club. I played here against Hastings last season and know the supporters are unreal. I’m really looking forward to playing in front of them this season.”
Dolan said: “I am delighted to get Archie agreed for the season. He has been in with us for a couple of weeks and straight away I could see he fits the mould of what sort of players I want to be attracting back to Hastings United. Archie is a quick, powerful defender who I’m sure the fans will love.”
In friendlies, Hastings lost run-outs at Lewes and Roffey but found them useful exercises, and visit Concord Rangers this Saturday.