Hartpury University FC is gearing up for a monumental ticket-only clash in the Isuzu FA Vase semi-final 2nd leg against Whitstable Town on Sunday 6 April (3pm kick-off at the 4ED Hartpury Stadium).

The match is poised to be a significant event for Gloucestershire football, marking a crucial moment in the club's history, following on from the first leg of the semi-final that will be held at Whitstable, Kent on Saturday 29 March. The winners will head to Wembley Stadium for Non-League Finals Day (May 11th, 2025).

It has been 43 years since a Gloucestershire club last reached the prestigious final. In 1982, Forest Green Rovers became the only GFA club to win the competition. Hartpury University FC, formed just five years ago, is now aiming to make history by reaching the final and potentially achieving a remarkable 'double' as they currently sit atop the Hellenic League Premier Division, having lost only three games this season.

The Gloucestershire FA would like to wish Hartpury the best of luck as they endeavour to represent our County at Wembley!

Ticket information 

Tickets for the Hartpury University FC vs Whitstable Town – Isuzu FA Vase Semi-Final 2nd Leg must be purchased in advance. Click here to secure your tickets.

the fa vase 

This season, the FA Challenge Vase celebrates its 50th year of competition. The tournament is open to affiliated clubs playing at Steps 5 to 7of the National League System, with a total of 596 entries this season. The two finalists will compete at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, 11th May.

The journey so far

First Round: Bye

Second Round: Hartpury University 1 - 0 East Cowes Victoria Athletic

Third Round: Hartpury University 1 - 0 Wells City

Round of 32: Hartpury University 1 - 0 Fareham Town

Round of 16: VCD Athletic FC 0 - 1 Hartpury University

Quarter Final: Hartpury University 2 - 1 Erith & Belvedere

Hartpury University 

Hartpury University (and Hartpury College) have a well-established and growing football pathway that offers both male and female players a chance to develop their skills while pursuing an academic qualification. The institution provides access to top-tier coaching, excellent training facilities, and competitive fixtures through its prestigious Football Academy. Whether students are aiming for a professional career or simply want to play alongside their studies, the Hartpury football pathway supports all abilities and career aspirations.

In 2024, Hartpury University became an education provider to the Premier League, creating a Student-Athlete Scholarship Programme that allows Premier League Academy graduates to progress their education and explore career paths within the sports industry.

Sport graduates enjoy high rates of employability (98% of sports undergraduates are in employment, further study or other purposeful activity - Graduate Outcomes 2024*). Sports Science at Hartpury University also ranks 4th in the UK according to The Guardian University Guide 2025.