Jake Tabor has signed with Hemel Hempstead Town, aiming to reignite his football career following a challenging season in League Two.

The 23-year-old forward joined Swindon Town 13 months ago after an impressive spell at Amersham Town, where he scored 107 goals in 72 appearances. Despite his prolific form in Step 6 football, Tabor’s opportunities at Swindon were limited to 14 substitute appearances. During his time there, he also spent loan periods at Bath City and Eastleigh but struggled to secure regular playing time.

Now returning to Hemel Hempstead Town on a permanent deal, Tabor will reunite with Lee Bircham, his former manager at Leighton Town. The Tudors concluded the previous campaign fifth in the National League South under Lee Allinson’s management, with ambitions to build on that foundation in the upcoming season.

Reflecting on his first professional season, Tabor described it as “stressful and chaotic,” emphasizing the mental toll of limited on-field involvement after being accustomed to regular matches at Amersham. He stated that his priority is now consistent playing time to regain his form and continue progressing.

“I could accept not playing week in, week out at Swindon but I had to think about what was best for my development,” Tabor said. “Now it is just about playing and if I can find the goals as I did at Amersham, I can come back up. It is a fresh start and I still believe the sky is the limit for me.”

Tabor pointed to Jamie Vardy’s rise from Non-League football to the Premier League and England squad as inspiration, noting that Vardy succeeded at 26 and expressing confidence that he can return to higher levels. He also highlighted the pathway of Isaiah Noel-Williams, who moved from Hemel Hempstead Town to Barnet, as further evidence that strong performances can attract attention from bigger clubs.

The forward emphasized that his departure from Swindon was on amicable terms, with mutual respect between himself and manager Ian Holloway. “I spoke to Ian Holloway when I left and thanked him for giving me a chance,” Tabor said. “He ultimately wants me to get back to doing what I do.”

Returning to Hertfordshire, where he grew up and previously represented Hemel Hempstead Town at youth levels, Tabor is optimistic about the challenge ahead. “Hemel is local to me,” he said. “They had a good season last year and hopefully we can do well together this time around. I know Birchy and he has always been there for me.”

Acknowledging the competitive nature of the National League South, where many clubs invest significantly, Tabor remains hopeful the Tudors can contend strongly in the upcoming campaign.