New Worcester Raiders signing Rhys Bennett believes the club's ambition and vision for the future made joining the Raiders an easy decision, after a conversation over coffee with manager Jordan Lewis sparked the move.

At just 22 years old, Bennett arrives at Worcester Raiders with an impressive footballing CV, having already gained valuable experience across the non-league pyramid. Comfortable playing as a traditional left-back or on the left side of a back three, the versatile defender is looking forward to helping the Raiders build on last season's promotion.

A Coffee That Changed Everything

Sometimes football transfers begin in unexpected places, and for Bennett, it all started in a Starbucks in Tewkesbury.

"It all started at a Starbucks in Tewkesbury over a Flat White," Bennett laughed.

"Jordan told me he was after a left-back, and I knew straight away I was interested.

"The club is ambitious and heading in the right direction, and I'm really excited to be here."

It was a simple conversation, but one that quickly convinced Bennett that Worcester Raiders was the perfect place for the next stage of his career.

Building Experience from a Young Age

Bennett's football journey began with Worcester City before joining his hometown club, Evesham United, at the age of 13.

His development accelerated quickly as he progressed into Evesham's Floodlit Team at just 15 years old, competing against older and more experienced players.

"I dealt with the physical side of the game really well. My time in Floodlit and Reserve football, despite only being 15 or 16, helped prepare me for men's football."

That early exposure proved invaluable. Bennett marked his first senior start for Evesham United by earning the Man of the Match award before becoming an established member of the first-team squad over the following two seasons.

A move to Bishop's Cleeve followed, although injury interrupted his progress. However, Evesham were quick to bring him back, where he played an important role in the club's successful promotion to Step 3 through the play-offs.

Experience Throughout Non-League Football

Last season provided another important chapter in Bennett's career.

After gaining experience at Step 3 level, he joined Westfields on loan in the Hellenic League Premier Division, where he was entrusted with the captain's armband.

His performances throughout the campaign were consistently impressive, culminating in him being named the club's Manager's Player of the Season.

Having now accumulated valuable experience from Step 7 through to Step 3 football, Bennett believes he can bring leadership, composure and consistency to the Worcester Raiders defence.

"I'm familiar with the standard of Step 4 football, and I hope I can help the team with that experience. I'll be aiming to hit the ground running."

Hungry for Success with the Raiders

Following the club's promotion, Bennett is determined to help Worcester Raiders establish themselves and compete strongly throughout the season.

"We want to finish as high as we can in this league. I hope to contribute to the team both defensively and going forward in my left-back role."

The defender describes himself as a player who combines defensive resilience with attacking intent.

"I'm calm on the ball and like to get up and down the wing to provide assists. The priority is always defending the goal and putting your body on the line to make sure the opposition doesn't score.

"But going forward, I'm ambitious and enjoy getting involved in attacks as well."

Everyone at Worcester Raiders FC would like to extend a warm welcome to Rhys and wish him every success in the black and amber.

Welcome to Worcester Raiders, Rhys!