Signings: Hood, Williams, Belcher, O'Neill, Gray, Piggon, Bartram - Nuneaton Griff

Nuneaton Griff Secure 7 Experienced Signings

Sunday 5th July 2026

Nuneaton Griff Football Club is pleased to confirm seven experienced players have signed with the club ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Jamie Hood, Mark Williams, Sam Belcher, Carl O'Neill, Ash Gray, Mitch Piggon and Toby Bartram all come into Wayne Hadley's squad, bringing know-how and leadership to blend with the young talent already at the club.

Manager Wayne Hadley explained the thinking behind the signings.

"I learnt a lot from the final 13 games of last season. We had a lot of young, talented players with loads of desire and passion to do well, but what was missing was the experience to glue it all together."

"I've worked hard to attract the right players to help the young lads excel, and to give us balance, voices and organisation to manage games better."

"I've been really pleased with their commitment so far. They've worked hard in training and there's a real buzz about them wanting to prove they've still got plenty to give."

Here more about each player from Wayne himself below:

Jamie Hood

Jamie Hood is a local Griff hero who started at the club at just 16 under Mark Green's era, going on to enjoy an impressive career including a spell at Leamington.

Already bouncing off the younger players in training, Jamie will play second team football where he can, helping youngsters including his own son Bailey progress toward first team football, while remaining available for first team duty when needed.

Mark Williams

Mark Williams is another very experienced player who has played at a higher level.

A solid midfielder who has moved back into centre half with ease, he reads the game well and is another huge figure to have around the squad.

Sam Belcher

Sam Belcher is a very talented player in possession of the ball who has played at a higher level.

Having worked hard to overcome injury, he is regaining his hunger and looks set to open up a few defences this season.

As a former Griff manager, his knowledge and feel for the game will be a valuable resource for Wayne too.

Carl O'Neill

Carl O'Neill is arguably one of the best goalkeepers in the area over the last 20 years.

He has been working alongside his son Spencer, putting the club's young keepers Luca Bien, Luca Moss and Ashton Edwards through their paces.

Carl will be around as much as his commitments allow and comes in as back up keeper.

Ash Gray

Ash Gray brings an incredible voice and leadership to the group, and has already brightened the place up in training.

Playing at the heart of defence, his organisation is set to make a huge difference to the side this season.

Mitch Piggon

Mitch Piggon is a natural goal scorer who has been there and done it.

His game has evolved into more of a presence up front, holding the ball up well and bringing players into play, but give him a sniff and it's in the back of the net.

After just five or six sessions, he already looks like a kid in a sweet shop.

Toby Bartram

Toby Bartram is still a young player but has gained good experience at different levels, including spells at Coventry United.

Good in possession and strong running with the ball, he is currently working on his fitness and is expected to be a big player for the club this season.

More To Follow

We have more players to announce as new signings and retained so keep an eye out across our platforms so you don't miss anything!