Harborough Town confirm departures of two popular forwards - including golden boot winner
Harborough Town have said their farewells to striker Ben Stephens and attacking midfielder Brady Hickey ahead of the upcoming 2026/27 season.
The Bees have confirmed neither Stephens nor Hickey will be renewing their contracts, making them available for other clubs to sign as free agents.
Stephens, a centre-forward with strong technical quality and an eye for goal, played a key role across the past two seasons.
The 28-year-old, signed from King’s Lynn in July 2024, contributed 37 goals in 86 appearances across all competitions, including 25 goals during his debut campaign.
Stephens will be remembered fondly by Harborough fans for his five goals on the way to the Bees’ first-ever venture to the FA Cup second round proper on 2024/25.
In a statement, Stephens said: “Thank you to everyone involved at Harborough Town FC. I feel the time is right for me to move on and take on a new challenge.
“It’s been a pleasure to play for such an unbelievable club and I’d like to wish everyone connected with the club all the very best for the season ahead and for the future.”
Meanwhile, Hickey may have only donned the Harborough yellow for one season, but he certainly made his impact known following his arrival from Barwell.
During his sole campaign at the Beehive, Hickey played 52 times and scored 13 goals, finishing as the club’s joint-highest appearance maker alongside goalkeeper Elliott Taylor.
“Firstly, an absolutely massive thank you to everyone at the club for an unforgettable year,” Hickey said.
“When I came in last summer, we had one goal – and we achieved it.
“An unbelievable group of lads, staff and people around the club. It’s been a pleasure.
“Thank you to all the fans for welcoming me and for the support throughout the season.
“I wish the boys nothing but success going forward and I’ll be back to support whenever I can.”
Following the exits of Stephens and Hickey, Bees boss Mitch Austin will work to replace the pair.
Their boots certainly won’t be easy to fill but Austin is confident he can put together a squad capable of competing effectively in the National League North.