Boreham Wood Football Club has announced a significant development in their managerial setup, with long-serving First Team Manager Luke Garrard signing a three-year contract extension. This decision comes as a testament to Garrard's exceptional leadership and the club's commitment to building a sustainable future. The extension is a strategic move, ensuring stability and continuity in a club that has experienced both triumphs and challenges in recent seasons.
Garrard's return to Boreham Wood in September 2024 marked a turning point for the club. After a turbulent start to life in the National League South, he transformed the team's fortunes, leading them to an immediate return to the National League. The highlight of this journey was a thrilling play-off campaign, where Garrard's men secured promotion back to the top tier at the first attempt. This achievement was all the more remarkable considering they came from 3-1 down to beat Dorking Wanderers 4-3 in the Eliminator, followed by a 1-0 semi-final win over Torquay United and a final victory over Maidstone United.
In the 2025/26 season, Garrard guided Boreham Wood into contention for promotion to the EFL, showcasing his ability to lead the team to new heights. This success was not limited to the league; they also had a memorable FA Cup run, reaching the Third Round Proper for the fourth time in six years. The FA Cup journey culminated in a memorable win over Newport County, broadcast live to the nation, in front of a packed Meadow Park. Additionally, Garrard's side lifted the National League Cup, becoming the first National League club to win the competition, after a dramatic 2-2 draw and penalty shootout victory over West Ham United U21.
The 2025/26 National League campaign was a testament to Garrard's tactical prowess. His team ended the season with a club-record 90 points and a fourth-place finish, earning a home Play-Off Eliminator against Forest Green Rovers, which they won 1-0. This success was followed by a 2-1 victory over Carlisle United in front of 14,000 supporters, securing their place in the Promotion Final at Wembley against Rochdale. Despite the heartbreak of the final defeat, Garrard's commitment to the club was solidified with the contract extension.
In his statement, Garrard expressed his happiness and pride in the team's efforts, emphasizing the importance of the club and town's unity. He thanked the Chairman for his trust and support, acknowledging the special bond between them that goes back over two decades. Garrard's focus is now on building on the success of the previous season and aiming for further improvement in the upcoming years.
Chairman Danny Hunter echoed Garrard's sentiments, praising the team's extraordinary achievements and the joy their football brings. Hunter's personal connection to Garrard and the team, coupled with their shared vision, made the contract negotiation a seamless process, more like a father-son discussion. The Chairman's belief in the team's potential and their ability to achieve their goals is a testament to the strong foundation the club has built both on and off the pitch.
This contract extension is a significant step forward for Boreham Wood Football Club, ensuring continuity and stability in their managerial setup. With Garrard's leadership and the club's commitment to excellence, the future looks bright, and the team is poised to continue its journey towards even greater success.
