Emley AFC are delighted to announce the signing of 28-year-old winger Joe Stacey, who joins the club ahead of the new season with a wealth of experience and an inspiring football journey both in the UK and abroad.

Hailing from Wickersley in Rotherham, Stacey is a natural left winger who can also operate on the right or at left wing-back. Having spent time at several clubs across the non-league pyramid, as well as four formative years playing and studying in the United States, Stacey brings technical ability, versatility, and a mature footballing perspective to the Pewits' dressing room.

“From the first phone call with Richard, everything just clicked,” said Stacey. “He was straight-talking, honest, and passionate about where the club’s going and I respected that straight away. It didn’t feel like I was being sold a dream or any false promises it felt genuine.”

The former Rotherham United academy prospect began his youth career at Wickersley Youth before joining the Millers at just eight years old. After being released at 15, he moved into the non-league system, making his senior debut for Sheffield FC at just 16.

A life-changing opportunity then came knocking. In 2015, Stacey moved to the United States on a soccer scholarship, where he spent four years playing college football, graduating with a university degree and enjoying a brief spell with professional teams before returning to England in 2019.

“I got to experience a whole new way of life, study for a degree, and play full time in top class facilities,” he said. “It gave me a second chance. And now I’m helping other lads do the same, working for the same company that got me out there. It’s all come full circle, which is pretty special.”

His return to England saw him feature for a number of well known non league clubs including Frickley Athletic, Alfreton Town, Ossett United, Grantham Town, Guiseley, Gainsborough Trinity, and most recently Cleethorpes Town.

“I know a few of the lads here, Charlie Barks, Jack Cowgill, and Ross Hardaker and they’ve always spoken highly of Emley,” he added. “Charlie especially couldn’t say a bad word he told me about how close the group is, how well-run everything is behind the scenes, and just how much potential this club has.”

For Stacey, a good team environment is just as important as the on-pitch ambitions.

“It honestly feels like I’ve been here for years,” he said. “That’s down to the lads from the first training session, it’s been nothing but good vibes. Everyone has welcomed me in and that team spirit is already clear to see.”

Having narrowly missed out on promotion last season, Emley are aiming to go one better this time a goal Stacey is fully aligned with.

“I know how close the lads came last season and I can only imagine how gutting that must’ve felt. But there’s clearly a lot of hunger here to go one step further. That’s the goal. And it’s not unrealistic.”

Individually, Stacey is focused on cementing his place in the starting XI and contributing consistently: “I'm here to work hard, fight for my place, and bring some experience to the squad. That left-wing spot is what I’m after. In terms of goals and assists, of course I want to contribute, but it’s about consistency and helping the team win games.”

Although Stacey has played in this division before he’s never faced Emley in his career. That’s all about to change as he prepares to call the Fantastic Media Welfare Ground his home.

“Funny enough, I’ve never played against Emley before. So to be playing here now and calling it home is really exciting. The pitch looks great, and I’ve heard nothing but positive things about the atmosphere.”

Stacey is eager to meet the supporters and make an impression in claret and blue: “Charlie’s told me the fans turn out in big numbers and really get behind the team, I’m buzzing to experience that on Saturday against Huddersfield Town in pre-season.”

And when he’s not out on the pitch, Stacey a loyal Newcastle United fan is helping the next generation of footballers head to the U.S. on scholarships, just like he did.

“The American college system has become a serious alternative now. We’ve had players turn down pro deals in the UK to go out there. It makes sense full-time football, top facilities, a degree, and a completely different life experience.”

With his experience, motivation, and clear passion for the game, Joe Stacey is ready to make his mark at Emley.

Welcome to the Pewits, Joe!

#UTP