It was confirmed today that Joe Kizzi has left Billericay Town to join National League side, Bromley. The 25 year old, who was offered a new deal by the club, had attracted the attention of a number of Step One teams. The departure to play in Kent represents a first move for the school-teacher into full-time football. He joined Blues in November 2017 from Isthmian Premier side, Wingate & Finchley
Recently voted Player of the Year by the Billericay Town Supporters Society (BTSS), the 6’2” right back has been one of the Blues most consistent performers since his arrival. Based on the current Billericay squad composition, ex-Maidstone United man, Michee Efete is expected to cover the position vacated by Kizzi.
All Photos courtesy: @nickyhayesphoto
Kizzi Receives the BTSS Supporter Player of the Season 2018-19
In his first season at the Blues he secured the treble of the Bostik Premier title, the Velocity Cup, and the Essex Senior Cup. After promotion, he represented BTFC with distinction in the National South. Despite not having played higher than Step Three previously, he made the step up the pyramid to the higher level with ease. Following a long series of consistent performances at both right-back and centre-back, he was included in both the Isthmian and National South Teams of the Season over consecutive campaigns.
Joe Kizzi and Dad celebrate Isthmian Premier Title Win
Kizzi made 88 League appearances scoring eight goals in his spell at the Blues. He made his debut on the 11thNovember, 2017, in a 6-2 home FA Trophy win versus Bury Town. His first goal came during a 2-0 home win versus Harlow Town on 24thApril, 2018. His last appearance for Billericay Town was in the final game of the 2018-19 campaign, which ended in a home defeat to Bath City.
A reassuring presence in defence, Kizzi filled a dual role as both a marauding full-back and a solid presence in the centre of the back-line when called upon. When operating on the flank, his ability to get forward and deliver dangerous crosses into the danger area added an impressive dimension to the Billericay offensive threat. Also defensively secure, his strong aerial prowess proved invaluable both in defensive areas and, with five League goals in 2018-19, in attacking situations.
Kizzi marks first goal in BTFC colours with his trade-mark celebration
Looking back at his football career previous to the Blues, Kizzi was an alumnus of youth level football at North-East London based, Ridgeway Rovers, where he shared the simple beginnings of other notable graduates such as David Beckham and Andros Townsend. At U-11 level, he even found himself lining up alongside Tottenham and England striker, Harry Kane. Although his pathway to senior football would not be as illustrious as the lucky few, he would accumulate first team experience at Eton Manor and Enfield 1893 in the Essex Senior League.
In June 2014, Kizzi signed for Isthmian North side, Waltham Abbey, and was part of the Abbots side that secured its League status and had the longest FA Cup run in the club’s history, reaching the third Qualifying Round. For the 2015-16 campaign, he moved to Isthmian North rivals, Cheshunt. He would spend two seasons at the Ambers before signing in June 2017 for Wingate & Finchley.
Kizzi leaves BTFC with the best wishes of the fans and with many thanks for his committed contributions on the pitch. As one of the club’s standout players, he will be sorely missed but has earned the right to try his luck at Step One level.
Good luck, Joe!
