Rhys Forster says he has memories to treasure forever after it was announced he will not be returning to Slough Town next season.
Forster was first given the opportunity to play for the Rebels’ first team by Neil Baker and Jon Underwood at the start of the 2022/23 season.
After the duo departed for Beaconsfield Town, current manager Scott Davies continued to utilise Forster for a period before the young goalkeeper was sent on loan to Ascot United, with Will Dennis donning the gloves at Arbour Park.
With the Yellamen, Forster won the Combined Counties Premier Division North and more recently lifted the FA Vase after a 1-0 win over Newport Pagnell Town at Wembley.
Reflecting on all of that and more, Forster told the Advertiser this week: “It was always going to be sad saying goodbye, especially to the fans. I have made some very good bonds over the past year with a lot of them and they are a great bunch of loyal supporters.
“The chat with Scott was brief. He made clear his plans for next season, and so did I which made it an easy decision for both of us.
“Scott has been unreal with me during his time as gaffer. Even when I was sent on loan, he was very supportive. Bakes and Unders were the first to give me the opportunity and I are very grateful for that. Obviously, I am grateful to Scott too for sticking by me for a little while.
“They have all played a massive part in my development and getting 22 games at Step 2 under my belt is incredible.
“This season has been amazing, playing at a level I have never been at before then finishing the season winning the league and FA Vase with Ascot.
“I have made a lot of friends and a lot of memories, the big one being playing and winning at Wembley.
“The moment I got to Ascot, I could tell the group was determined to do big things with the togetherness and quality they all have. The league was pretty much wrapped up when I arrived but to finish with nine clean sheets in 11 matches and winning the quarter-final and semi-final of the Vase through penalties added to it all.”
On what’s next, Forster added: “Regarding next season, you’ll know more soon. Staying at Ascot was always something in my mind. Since Wembley I have had a fair few offers to play higher and at the moment I am not too sure which path to go down.
“I think regardless of whether I stay or not, the Ascot boys will go on to have a great season at Step 4 and will be looking to go up again as they certainly have the quality to do so.
“Like I said, hopefully something comes out within the next couple of days about next season for me.”
Forster added: “Once again, a massive thank you and shoutout to the Slough fans and players for their success in staying up, and the support they’ve shown me throughout this season even while at Ascot.
“Equally, thank you to the Ascot fans and players for trusting me to come in and fill some big boots in the missing Jamie Ashdown. It’s been an incredible season on and off the pitch with both clubs and both will go onto have a successful season next year I’m sure.”