{{short description|English footballer (born 1988)}} {{Use British English|date=July 2015}} {{Use dmy dates|date=July 2015}} {{Infobox football biography |name = Chris Lewington |fullname = Christopher John Lewington<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thefa.com/~/media/files/thefaportal/governance-docs/registrations/july-2014.ashx?la=en |title=List of Players under Written Contract Registered Between 01/07/2014 and 31/07/2014 |page=18 |date=31 July 2014 |publisher=The Football Association |format=PDF |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> |birth_date = {{Birth date and age|df=y|1988|08|23}}<ref name="SB">{{soccerbase|51920|name=Chris Lewington}}</ref> |birth_place = Sidcup, England |height = {{height|m=1.88}}<ref name="SB"/> |position = Goalkeeper |youthyears1 = 1999–2002 |youthclubs1 = Charlton Athletic |years1 = 2005–2006 |clubs1 = Erith & Belvedere |caps1 = |goals1 = |years2 = 2006–2007 |clubs2 = Dulwich Hamlet |caps2 = 8 |goals2 = 0 |years3 = 2006 |clubs3 = → Beckenham Town (dual-reg) |caps3 = 2 |goals3 = 0 |years4 = 2007–2008 |clubs4 = Fisher Athletic |caps4 = |goals4 = |years5 = 2007–2008 |clubs5 = → Sittingbourne (loan) |caps5 = |goals5 = |years6 = 2008–2009 |clubs6 = Leatherhead |caps6 = 27 |goals6 = 0 |years7 = 2009–2014 |clubs7 = Dagenham & Redbridge |caps7 = 127 |goals7 = 0 |years8 = 2014–2015 |clubs8 = Colchester United |caps8 = 1 |goals8 = 0 |years9 = 2015–2016 |clubs9 = Margate |caps9 = 23 |goals9 = 0 |years10 = 2016–2017 |clubs10 = Welling United |caps10 = 33 |goals10 = 0 |years11 = 2017–2019 |clubs11 = Dover Athletic |caps11 = 0 |goals11 = 0 |years12 = 2019 |clubs12 = Weymouth |caps12 = 1 |goals12 = 0 |years13 = 2019–2021 |clubs13 = Maidstone United |caps13 = 31 |goals13 = 0 |years14 = 2021–2023 |clubs14 = Cray Valley Paper Mills |caps14 = 72 |goals14 = 0 |years15 = 2023 |clubs15 = Dartford |caps15 = 0 |goals15 = 0 |club-update = 17:10, 17 November 2023 (UTC) }}
'''Christopher John Lewington''' (born 23 August 1988) is an English former professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper.
Lewington began his career with Charlton Athletic until the age of 13, where he took up Sunday league football until the age of 16, when he joined Erith & Belvedere. After one season, he joined Dulwich Hamlet, where he was dual-registered to Beckenham Town, before switching to Champion Hill cohabitants Fisher Athletic in 2007. After a loan spell at Sittingbourne and one and a half years with Fisher, Lewington joined Leatherhead, where his performances earned him a move to the Football League with Dagenham & Redbridge.
In his early days with Dagenham, Lewington was primarily back-up to Daggers legend Tony Roberts until his retirement in 2011. From 2011 to 2014, Lewington was first-choice goalkeeper at the club, where he racked up 143 appearances in all competitions. With his contract expiring in the summer of 2014, he opted to leave in order to find a new challenge. He then joined Colchester United to challenge Sam Walker for the number one jersey, but made just two appearances before being released one year later. He joined Margate in December 2015.
Alongside his playing commitments, Lewington studied for a Bachelor of Arts degree in physical education and sport, and also has an FA coaching qualification. He runs his own specialised goalkeeping coaching sessions, alongside working as a part-time lecturer at North West Kent College in Dartford as a goalkeeping coach and sports lecturer. Lewington was winner of the 2022 parents race.
==Career==
===Early career=== Born in Sidcup, London,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.footballsquads.co.uk/eng/2014-2015/flone/colches.htm |title=Colchester United |publisher=FootballSquads |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref><ref name="birthplace">{{cite news |last1=Waldron |first1=Jonathan |date=12 August 2014 |title=Lewington ready for Valley return |url=http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/11402936.Lewington_ready_for_Valley_return/ |newspaper=Daily Gazette |location=Colchester |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington spent three seasons with Charlton Athletic's youth system until the age of 13. After his release by the Addicks, he continued to play Sunday league football until the age of 16, when he entered men's football, joining Erith & Belvedere in the Southern Counties East Football League.<ref name="CLG">{{cite web|url=http://cl-goalkeeping.com/page3.htm |archive-url=https://archive.today/20140126114527/http://cl-goalkeeping.com/page3.htm |url-status=dead |archive-date=26 January 2014 |title=Chris Lewington |publisher=CL Goalkeeping |accessdate=24 January 2014 }}</ref> He spent one season with the Deres, before joining Isthmian League Division One South side Dulwich Hamlet. Lewington joined Hamlet during 2006–07 pre-season, and following an injury to Carl Emberson,<ref name="Fisher">{{cite web|url=http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=42771 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201202227/http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=42771 |archive-date=1 February 2014 |title=FOUR MORE SWITCH FROM LANDLORDS TO TENANTS |publisher=Nonleaguedaily.com |date=10 June 2007 |url-status=usurped |accessdate=24 January 2014 }}</ref> he made his debut in their friendly against Dorking in a 5–1 friendly victory in July 2006.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/846447.FOOTBALL__Dorking_1_Dulwich_Hamlet_5/ |title=FOOTBALL: Dorking 1 Dulwich Hamlet 5 |last=Griffin |first=Paul |date=24 July 2006 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref>
Lewington was dual registered with Kent League side Beckenham Town during his time with Hamlet, making his debut in August 2006 against Deal Town in a 2–1 victory.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2006/08/29/897423.Beckenham_steal_points_from_Deal/ |title=Beckenham steal points from Deal |date=29 August 2006 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190007/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2006/08/29/897423.Beckenham_steal_points_from_Deal/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Then in early September 2006, Lewington made his first-team debut for Hamlet in their 3–0 FA Cup preliminary round victory against Three Bridges, although he had little to do in a dominant display by Dulwich.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/908230.Dulwich_Hamlet_3_Three_Bridges_0/ |title=Dulwich Hamlet 3 Three Bridges 0|last=Griffin |first=Paul |date=6 September 2006 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> He featured once again for Beckenham in their 3–2 away defeat to Lordswood on 12 September<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2006/09/12/916486.Becks_blow_chance_to_go_top_of_table/ |title=Becks blow chance to go top of table |date=12 September 2006 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190321/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2006/09/12/916486.Becks_blow_chance_to_go_top_of_table/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> and then returned to Dulwich for their 3–0 FA Cup first qualifying round reverse at Walton & Hersham on 16 September.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/928130.FA_Cup_first_qualifying_round__Walton_and_Hersham_3_Dulwich_Hamlet_0/ |title=FA Cup first qualifying round: Walton and Hersham 3 Dulwich Hamlet 0 |last=Griffin |first=Paul |date=20 September 2006 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> Games followed against Fleet Town - a 4–1 defeat on 30 September,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=47 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012230826/http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=47 |archive-date=12 October 2013 |title=vs Fleet Town |publisher=Dulwich Hamlet FC |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> Tooting & Mitcham United in the FA Trophy - a 2–2 draw on 7 October,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=48 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012194714/http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=48 |archive-date=12 October 2013 |title=vs Tooting and Mitcham United |publisher=Dulwich Hamlet FC |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> as well as the replay held on 10 October which ended 7–6 to Tooting after extra time.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=49 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131013004216/http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=49 |archive-date=13 October 2013 |title=vs Tooting and Mitcham United |publisher=Dulwich Hamlet FC |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> Further to that, Lewington featured in 3–2 victories against AFC Wimbledon in the London Senior Cup<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=51 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012204022/http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=51 |archive-date=12 October 2013 |title=vs AFC Wimbledon |publisher=Dulwich Hamlet FC |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> and Maidstone United in the league on 24 and 28 October respectively,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=52 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012190349/http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=52 |archive-date=12 October 2013 |title=vs Maidstone Utd |publisher=Dulwich Hamlet FC |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> a 1–0 win against Chatham Town on 31 October,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/997639.Dulwich_Hamlet_1_Chatham_Town_0/ |title=Dulwich Hamlet 1 Chatham Town 0 |last=Griffin |first=Paul |date=1 November 2006 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> a 4–3 London Senior Cup exit at home to Thamesmead Town on 14 November,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/1021595.Dulwich_Hamlet_3_Thamesmead_Town_4/ |title=Dulwich Hamlet 3 Thamesmead Town 4 |last=Griffin |first=Paul |date=15 November 2006 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> a 3–0 win against Chatham on 21 November,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=57 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012222412/http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=57 |archive-date=12 October 2013 |title=vs Chatham Town |publisher=Dulwich Hamlet FC |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> a 4–2 reverse at Hastings United on 25 November,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/1052477.Hastings_United_4_Dulwich_Hamlet_2/ |title=Hastings United 4 Dulwich Hamlet 2 |date=1 December 2006 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> a 2–2 draw with Burgess Hill Town on 28 November<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=6 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012212853/http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=6 |archive-date=12 October 2013 |title=vs Burgess Hill Town |publisher=Dulwich Hamlet FC |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> a 5–3 extra time loss home loss to Woking in the Surrey Senior Cup on 5 December<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/1063216.Surrey_Senior_Cup__Dulwich_Hamlet_3_Woking_FC_5__AET_/ |title=Surrey Senior Cup: Dulwich Hamlet 3 Woking FC 5 (AET) |date=7 December 2006 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> and in a 2–0 win against the Metropolitan Police on 9 December.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=8 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012153854/http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=8 |archive-date=12 October 2013 |title=vs Metropolitan Police |publisher=Dulwich Hamlet FC |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> He made his final first-team appearance for Dulwich on 12 December when they tied 0–0 with Sittingbourne.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=9 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131012213237/http://www.dulwichhamletfc.co.uk/match-report.php?ID=9 |archive-date=12 October 2013 |title=vs Sittingbourne |publisher=Dulwich Hamlet FC |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref> However, Lewington did feature for the reserve side as they came out on top against Staines Town Reserves with a 4–1 victory in the Capital League President's Cup final on 22 May 2007.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/1417383.Hamlet_triumph_thanks_to_Sol_man/ |title=Hamlet triumph thanks to Sol man |last=Griffin |first=Paul |date=22 May 2007 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=17 January 2015 }}</ref>
In June 2007, Lewington followed manager Wayne Burnett from Dulwich to Conference South side Fisher Athletic.<ref name="Fisher"/> Then, in December 2007, he was sent out on loan to Isthmian League Division One South outfit Sittingbourne.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=47009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201202120/http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=47009 |archive-date=1 February 2014 |title=ABBOTT ANNOUNCES NEW SIGNINGS |first1=Dave |last1=Griffiths |publisher=Nonleaguedaily.com |date=18 December 2007 |url-status=usurped |accessdate=24 January 2014 }}</ref> Lewington was in fine form as Sittingbourne went five games unbeaten, which saw them rise up the table.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=47368 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201202123/http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=47368 |archive-date=1 February 2014 |title=POSITIVE VIBES AT SITTINGBOURNE |first1=Dave |last1=Griffiths |publisher=Nonleaguedaily.com |date=7 January 2008 |url-status=usurped |accessdate=25 January 2014 }}</ref> He was sent off in a match against Metropolitan Police in February 2008 after bringing down Steve Sergeant in the penalty area in a 2–1 defeat for the Brickies.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=48044 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201202129/http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=48044 |archive-date=1 February 2014 |title=ABBOTT DISAPPOINTED TO LEAVE EMPTY-HANDED |first1=Dave |last1=Griffiths |publisher=Nonleaguedaily.com |date=4 February 2008 |url-status=usurped |accessdate=25 January 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/2017539.Calm_Carley_wins_it_for_the_Police/ |title=Calm Carley wins it for the Police |last=Travis |first=Cliff |date=4 February 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington then signed a loan extension with the club following his 21-day suspension for the incident against the Met Police.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=48681 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201202127/http://www.nonleaguedaily.com/news/index.php?newsmode=FULL&nid=48681 |archive-date=1 February 2014 |title=ABBOTT CONFIDENT OF MAKING THE PLAY-OFFS |first1=Dave |last1=Griffiths |publisher=Nonleaguedaily.com |date=7 March 2008 |url-status=usurped |accessdate=25 January 2014 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kentonline.co.uk/kent/sport/wings-handed-keeper-boost-a36261 |title=Wings handed keeper boost |date=5 March 2008 |publisher=Kent Online |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington was then recalled by Fisher in March 2008 following an injury to Simon Overland.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.kentonline.co.uk/gravesend/sport/ford-wants-repeat-performance-a36206 |title=Ford wants repeat performance |date=20 March 2008 |publisher=Kent Online |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington then graduated from the North West Kent College in Dartford, Kent, in 2008, where he studied in Gillingham's education and football programme.<ref name="NWKC">{{cite web |url=http://www.nwkcollege.ac.uk/documents/downloads/Gillingham_football_club_Purple.pdf |title=Gillingham FC North West Kent College Development Scheme |page=5 |publisher=North West Kent College |accessdate=25 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140203054921/http://www.nwkcollege.ac.uk/documents/downloads/Gillingham_football_club_Purple.pdf |archive-date=3 February 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
In October 2008, Lewington joined Isthmian League Division One South side Leatherhead, turning down several other clubs in the process. He competed for a first-team spot with Philippines international Neil Etheridge, who was on loan from Fulham at the time.<ref>{{cite news |date=22 October 2008 |title=Leatherhead's new boss wants more consistency |url=http://www.surreymirror.co.uk/Leatherhead-s-new-boss-wants-consistency/story-12658868-detail/story.html |newspaper=Surrey Mirror |location=Redhill |accessdate=25 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140201183250/http://www.surreymirror.co.uk/Leatherhead-s-new-boss-wants-consistency/story-12658868-detail/story.html |archive-date=1 February 2014 |url-status=dead }}</ref> He made his first side for the club in their 2–0 away defeat to Godalming Town on 25 October.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/3795593.Food_for_thought_for_Langford_after_first_up_defeat/ |title=Food for thought for Langford after first-up defeat |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=27 October 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Three days later, he experienced his first win for the Tanners on his home debut as they overcame Walton Casuals 2–1 on 28 October.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/3800423.Tanners_respond_to_Langford_s_rallying_cry/ |title=Tanners respond to Langford's rallying cry |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=29 October 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> After a delay due to bad weather, his next appearance until 15 November in Leatherhead's 4–2 away win at Eastbourne Town.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/3853439.Young_gun_Terry_shines_on_Tanners_debut/ |title=Young gun Terry shines on Tanners debut |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=17 November 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> He also played in wins against Corinthian-Casuals,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/3872419.Tanners_thump_Casuals/ |title=Tanners thump Casuals |date=24 November 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Cobham in the cup,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/3932098.Off_colour_Tanners_edge_through_in_cup_tie/ |title=Off-colour Tanners edge through in cup tie |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=27 November 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> before a 2–0 defeat to Ashford Town in the Isthmian League Cup.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/3945217.Tanners_feel_the_heat_against_Ashford/ |title=Tanners feel the heat against Ashford |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=3 December 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Consecutive defeats followed against Walton & Hersham,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/3958363.Tanners_left_grounded_by_efficient_Swans/ |title=Tanners left grounded by efficient Swans |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=8 December 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> a 5–1 loss at Ashford,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/3965205.Ash_are_too_hot_for_Tanners/ |title=Ash are too hot for Tanners |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=10 December 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Croydon Athletic,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/3984379.Tanners_run_of_bad_luck_goes_on/ |title=Tanners run of bad luck goes on |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=17 December 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> his former club Dulwich,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4006549.Hamlet_is_a_killer_final_act_for_2008/ |title=Dulwich Hamlet 2 Leatherhead 0 |date=29 December 2008 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Kingstonian,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4058168.Tanners_undone_by_special_Ks/ |title=Leatherhead 0 Kingstonian 2 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=19 January 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> and a Surrey Senior Cup reverse at Woking,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4063266.Tanners_go_down_fighting_against_Woking/ |title=Woking 4 Leatherhead 0 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=21 January 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> before finally earning a point in a 3–3 draw with the Metropolitan Police on 24 January 2009.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4076163.Tanners_fightback_seals_point/ |title=Metropolitan Police 3 Leatherhead 3 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=26 January 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> His side earned their first win since 22 November 2008 on 7 February 2009 when they cruised to a 4–0 victory against Crowborough Athletic.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4111718.Tanners_get_back_on_track/ |title=Crowborough Athletic 0 Leatherhead 4 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=9 February 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> He started in a 2–1 defeat to Cray Wanderers,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4118437.Tanners_go_down_fighting/ |title=Cray Wanderers 2 Leatherhead 1 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=11 February 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> a 2–0 win over Fleet Town,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4129461.Tanners_sink_the_Fleet/ |title=Leatherhead 2 Fleet Town 0 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=16 February 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> a 6–0 thrashing by Worthing,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4134649.Tanners_given_a_beating_by_Rebels/ |title=Worthing 6 Leatherhead 0 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=18 February 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> a 2–1 win on the road at Folkestone Invicta,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4147373.Tanners_are_back_with_a_bang/ |title=Folkestone Invicta 1 Leatherhead 2 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=23 February 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> a 2–0 win against Chipstead,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4172385.Tanners_fry_the_Chips/ |title=Leatherhead 2 Chipstead 0 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=4 March 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> a 1–0 loss at Walton Casuals,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4186356.Tanners_fall_to_relegation_battlers/ |title=Walton Casuals 1 Leatherhead 0 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=9 March 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> a 2–1 win at home to Merstham,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4192698.Will_the_real_Leatherhead_please_stand_up_/ |title=Leatherhead 2 Merstham 1 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=11 March 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> a 1–0 defeat away to Corinthian-Casuals,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4205377.Tanners_go_down_at_Casuals/ |title=Corinthian Casuals 1 Leatherhead 0 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=16 March 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> a 2–2 tie with his previous club Sittingbourne,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4211686.Tanners_held_at_Sittingbourne/ |title=Sittinbourne 2 Leatherhead 2 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=18 March 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> defeats at home to Croydon,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4228118.Defensive_errors_haunt_Tanners/ |title=Leatherhead 1 Croydon Athletic 2 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=24 March 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> away to Merstham<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4246485.Tanners_come_off_worst_in_dour_struggle/ |title=Tanners come off worst in dour struggle |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=30 March 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> and a home defeat at the hands of Eastbourne.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4272172.Tanners_endure_another_frustrating_afternoon/ |title=Tanners endure another frustrating afternoon |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=7 April 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Despite a 2–0 win at Whyteleafe,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4288525.Easter_win_leaves_Tanners_feeling_egg_static/ |title=Whyteleafe 0 Leatherhead 2 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=14 April 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington's team were subject of another defeat at home to Dulwich by 3–0,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4291346.Tanners_given_a_right_Ham_mering/ |title=Leatherhead 0 Dulwich Hamlet 3 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=15 April 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> and experience a bore-draw against Walton & Hersham in his penultimate game of the campaign.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4303463.Bore_draw_does_little_to_boost_either_side/ |title=Walton & Hersham 0 Leatherhead 0 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=20 April 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington played his final game for Leatherhead on 25 April in a 3–0 home win over Sittingbourne.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/sport/4322654.Tanners_enjoy_thrilling_final_clash/ |title=Leatherhead 3 Sittingbourne 0 |last=Dennis |first=Steve |date=27 April 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> On the back of a successful season for Lewington, he was named Leatherhead's 'Supporter's Player of the Year' award.<ref name="Daggers">{{cite web |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/d/dagenham_and_redbridge/8182866.stm |title=Daggers sign two and release one |date=4 August 2009 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=20 September 2010 }}</ref>
===Dagenham & Redbridge===
====2009–10 season==== League Two side Dagenham & Redbridge took Lewington on trial in the summer of 2009.<ref name="Daggers"/> He appeared for the Daggers in their 2009–10 pre-season campaign, with his first outing a 2–1 win against Braintree Town on 27 July 2009.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2009/07/28/4515316.DAGGERS__Dagenham_late_show_sees_off_Braintree/ |title=DAGGERS: Dagenham late show sees off Braintree |date=28 July 2009 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190133/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2009/07/28/4515316.DAGGERS__Dagenham_late_show_sees_off_Braintree/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> After impressing on trial, Lewington signed a deal with the club on 4 August.<ref name="Daggers"/> He spent his first season primarily on the substitutes bench as back-up for stalwart Tony Roberts as the club were promoted to League One via the play-offs with victory over Rotherham United in the final in May 2010. He then signed a two-year contract extension in May.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/d/dagenham_and_redbridge/8720642.stm |title=Dagenham & Redbridge sign Gwillim and Lewis |date=3 June 2010 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=20 September 2010 }}</ref>
====2010–11 season==== Lewington featured more regularly for the Daggers in the 2010–11 pre-season ahead of their maiden season in League One. He first appeared in their 4–0 victory at Boreham Wood in July 2010,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2010/07/08/8261087.Daggers_dismantle_Wood_in_friendly/ |title=Daggers dismantle Wood in friendly |last=Mead |first=John |date=8 July 2010 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190152/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2010/07/08/8261087.Daggers_dismantle_Wood_in_friendly/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> as well as playing in a 3–1 defeat to Dartford,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2010/07/12/8266684.DAGGERS__Dartford_3_Dagenham___Redbridge_1/ |title=DAGGERS: Dartford 3 Dagenham & Redbridge 1 |date=12 July 2010 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190023/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2010/07/12/8266684.DAGGERS__Dartford_3_Dagenham___Redbridge_1/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> and a 1–0 loss at Braintree.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2010/08/02/8306271.DAGGERS__Team_sunk_by_lucky_late_goal/ |title=DAGGERS: Team sunk by lucky late goal |date=2 August 2010 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190236/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2010/08/02/8306271.DAGGERS__Team_sunk_by_lucky_late_goal/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
On 31 August, Lewington made his first-team and professional debut for the Daggers against his boyhood club Charlton Athletic in the Football League Trophy. A low drive from Therry Racon passed Lewington from the edge of the box to hand the Addicks a 1–0 win at The Valley.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/8951081.stm |title=Charlton 1–0 Dag & Red |date=31 August 2010 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=20 September 2010 }}</ref> Lewington was handed his Football League debut on 2 November 2010 when Dagenham & Redbridge were handed a 4–0 thumping by Southampton at St Mary's Stadium.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/9119115.stm |title=Southampton 4–0 Dag & Red |date=2 November 2010 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=25 January 2014 }}</ref> With first-team regular Tony Roberts out of action with an ankle injury throughout November,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2010/11/16/8668340.DAGGERS__Four_missing_for_Orient_cup_clash/ |title=DAGGERS: Four missing for Orient cup clash |date=16 November 2010 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190228/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2010/11/16/8668340.DAGGERS__Four_missing_for_Orient_cup_clash/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Lewington continued between the sticks, featuring in the 1–1 FA Cup first round draw with Leyton Orient on 6 November,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/9140196.stm |title=Dag & Red 1–1 Leyton Orient |date=6 November 2010 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=21 January 2015 }}</ref> He helped his side to a 3–1 away win against Yeovil Town on 13 November<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/eng_div_2/9171934.stm |title=Yeovil 1–3 Dag & Red |date=13 November 2010 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=21 January 2015 }}</ref> prior to their FA Cup exit to Leyton Orient following a 3–2 defeat in the first round replay held on 16 November.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/fa_cup/9191170.stm |title=Leyton Orient 3–2 Dag & Red |date=16 November 2010 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=21 January 2015 }}</ref> He played his final game of the season on 20 November, a 1–0 defeat at Victoria Road.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_2/9204145.stm |title=Dag & Red 0–1 Oldham |date=20 November 2010 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington was on the bench for the Daggers' 5–0 capitulation against Peterborough United on 7 May 2011, a result which sealed their relegation back to League Two.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/13247270 |title=Peterborough 5–0 Dag & Red |date=7 May 2011 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=21 January 2015 }}</ref> He made a total of six appearances in his second season with the club.<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2010/2011">{{Soccerbase season|51920|2010|name=Chris Lewington|accessdate=21 January 2015}}</ref>
====2011–12 season==== [[File:Roberts, Tony.jpg|thumb|right|Tony Roberts, who made over 400 league appearances for Dagenham & Redbridge, retired in 2011, allowing Lewington to take his place in goal.]] The Daggers returned to begin the 2011–12 pre-season campaign on 12 July 2011 with a comfortable 2–0 win over Boreham Wood, with Lewington the only player to play the full 90 minutes.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2011/07/13/9138088.Daggers_return_to_action_with_Boreham_Wood_win/ |title=Daggers return to action with Boreham Wood win |date=13 July 2011 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=21 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190306/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2011/07/13/9138088.Daggers_return_to_action_with_Boreham_Wood_win/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> Having announced his retirement from professional football ahead of Dagenham's friendly against West Ham United on 26 July, Tony Roberts stepped aside to make Lewington the Daggers' first choice goalkeeper. He played the first 45 minutes of the game, which ended 1–0 to the Hammers.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Evans |first1=Dave |date=26 July 2011 |title=Cole's goal the difference as West Ham edge past Daggers |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/cole_s_goal_the_difference_as_west_ham_edge_past_daggers_1_975801 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref> Manager John Still moved quickly to sign Arsenal youth goalkeeper James Shea to challenge Lewington for the number one shirt, while Roberts backed both players as capable replacements for himself.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=Joshua |date=27 July 2011 |title=Retiring Roberts back Arsenal starlet to shine |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/retiring_roberts_back_arsenal_starlet_to_shine_1_977005 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=21 January 2015 }}</ref>
Lewington began the season with a clean sheet in Dagenham's 1–0 win against Macclesfield Town on 6 August, despite being sent off late on after a deliberate handball.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2011/08/06/9182199.Daggers_kick_off_season_with_win/ |title=Daggers kick off season with win |date=6 August 2011 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=25 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190306/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2011/08/06/9182199.Daggers_kick_off_season_with_win/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> After completing his ban, Lewington established himself as first-choice goalkeeper over Shea, recording three clean sheets in his first four matches, with teammate Damian Scannell describing him as "the best keeper in this division in this division and the division above [League One]". Scannell also added that Sam Walker, whose solid performance in goal for Northampton Town helped the Cobblers to a 2–1 win over the Daggers on 24 September, was "not better than Chris Lewington".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=Joshua |date=28 September 2011 |title=Daggers midfielder rates team-mate as best goalkeeper in League's One and Two |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/daggers_midfielder_rates_team_mate_as_best_goalkeeper_in_league_s_one_and_two_1_1074092 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> John Still added that he expected a lot of interest from other clubs in his goalkeeper, following further good performances, including a second-half penalty save from Ryan Hall in their 3–1 defeat to the Shrimpers in the Football League Trophy on 4 October.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=Joshua |date=6 October 2011 |title=Daggers boss expects interest in star stopper |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/daggers_boss_expects_interest_in_star_stopper_1_1080944 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> After making 19 league appearances, Lewington signed a new three-year deal on 1 November.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2011/11/01/9337199.Lewington_signs_new_Daggers_deal/ |title=Lewington signs new Daggers deal |date=1 November 2011 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=25 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190108/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2011/11/01/9337199.Lewington_signs_new_Daggers_deal/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> On the back of Lewington's form, Arsenal decided to recall James Shea from his season-long loan with Dagenham, with the stopper only making five appearances between August and December.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2011/12/05/9402770.Daggers_keeper_recalled_by_Gunners/ |title=Daggers keeper recalled by Gunners |last=Matthews |first=Anthony |date=5 December 2011 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=25 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190322/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2011/12/05/9402770.Daggers_keeper_recalled_by_Gunners/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
Lewington received his second red card of the season in a 5–0 league defeat to Cheltenham Town on 18 February 2012, a result which sent the Daggers to the bottom of the League Two table. Dagenham were two goals down when Lewington was sent off for handling the ball outside of the box after 41 minutes.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=Joshua |date=18 February 2012 |title=Daggers go bottom of League Two after thumping defeat |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/daggers_go_bottom_of_league_two_after_thumping_defeat_1_1213473 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> John Still appealed the red card but the decision was upheld with Lewington forced to serve a two-game ban.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=Joshua |date=21 February 2012 |title=Lewington appeal dismissed |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/lewington_appeal_dismissed_1_1215688 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2014 }}</ref> On his return to action, Lewington helped his side pull away from the relegation zone, including a penalty save in a crucial 1–0 away win at Port Vale on 31 March.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=Joshua |date=31 March 2012 |title=Lewington penalty save earns Daggers a vital three points |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/lewington_penalty_save_earns_daggers_a_vital_three_points_1_1336791 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> The performance earned him a spot in the League Two 'Team of the Week', alongside goalscorer in the game Michael Spillane.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2012/04/02/9627334.Daggers_duo_earn_weekly_accolade/ |title=Daggers duo earn weekly accolade |date=2 April 2012 |publisher=This Is Local London |accessdate=25 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150125190113/http://www.thisislocallondon.co.uk/archive/2012/04/02/9627334.Daggers_duo_earn_weekly_accolade/ |archive-date=25 January 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> With the side securing League Two safety for another season,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=Joshua |date=21 April 2012 |title=Brilliant Bingham goal secures Daggers safety |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/brilliant_bingham_goal_secures_daggers_safety_1_1356041 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington ended the campaign with a total of 47 appearances in all competitions.<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2011/2012">{{Soccerbase season|51920|2011|name=Chris Lewington|accessdate=25 January 2015}}</ref>
====2012–13 season==== A last gasp penalty from Kevin Kilbane secured a 1–0 League Cup win for Coventry City in Lewington's first game of the 2012–13 season on 14 August 2012.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=Joshua |date=14 August 2012 |title=Daggers beaten by last-minute penalty |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/daggers_beaten_by_last_minute_penalty_1_1481748 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> In Dagenham's 3 November 4–0 defeat to Bournemouth in the FA Cup, Lewington picked up a head injury early in the first-half which forced him into being taken off at half-time with concussion.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=6 November 2012 |title=Daggers goalkeeper Lewington fit for Oxford clash but Spillane out |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/daggers_goalkeeper_lewington_fit_for_oxford_clash_but_spillane_out_1_1683945 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> John Still publicly backed Lewington following a mistake made in the Daggers 3–2 defeat at home to Port Vale on 29 December. Lewington came out of his goal after four minutes of the game to claim a long throw-in, but missed the ball, allowing Vale's Tom Pope to head into an empty net.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=31 December 2012 |title=Still backs Lewington and Daggers to bounce back |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/still_backs_lewington_and_daggers_to_bounce_back_1_1757105 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2014 }}</ref>
Lewington was reunited with his former boss at Dulwich Hamlet and Fisher Athletic Wayne Burnett, when he was appointed interim manager following John Still's departure for Luton Town in February 2013.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=27 February 2013 |title=Late Hanson strike denies interim Daggers boss Burnett a winning start at Bradford |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/late_hanson_strike_denies_interim_daggers_boss_burnett_a_winning_start_at_bradford_1_1959541 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> Despite losing their decisive final game of the season 1–0 to York City on 20 April, the Daggers secured their place in the Football League and avoided relegation to the Conference for a further season. Lewington was dropped for the game in favour of young goalkeeper Jordan Seabright.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=27 April 2013 |title=Daggers stay in Football League despite home defeat to York |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/daggers_stay_in_football_league_despite_home_defeat_to_york_1_2171002 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington added a further 45 appearances to his tally across to 2012–13 season.<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2012/2013">{{Soccerbase season|51920|2012|name=Chris Lewington|accessdate=25 January 2015}}</ref>
====2013–14 season==== Lewington started the 2013–14 pre-season with a clean sheet in a 5–0 drubbing of Dover Athletic at the Crabble Athletic Ground on 6 July 2013,<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=6 July 2013 |title=Fantastic Five for Daggers at Dover |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/fantastic_five_for_daggers_at_dover_1_2267311 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> with further appearances in home defeats to Crystal Palace<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=20 July 2013 |title=Palace pick up win in pre-season opener against solid Daggers |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/palace_pick_up_win_in_pre_season_opener_against_solid_daggers_1_2288619 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> and Charlton Athletic through July.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=23 July 2013 |title=Charlton shine as Daggers disappoint |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/charlton_shine_as_daggers_disappoint_1_2294850 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> He made his first appearance of the season in the league 3–1 league defeat to Fleetwood Town on 3 August.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=3 August 2013 |title=Two early goals prove Daggers undoing in Fleetwood defeat |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/two_early_goals_prove_daggers_undoing_in_fleetwood_defeat_1_2315147 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref>
In September 2013, Lewington hailed the impact that new goalkeeping coach Jim Stannard had made on his game. Stannard's arrival from Premier League side Southampton was welcomed after the Daggers went without a recognised goalkeeping coach for much of the 2012–13 season.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=20 September 2013 |title=Lewington commends Stannard's impact at Daggers |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/lewington_commends_stannard_s_impact_at_daggers_1_2740672 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilofrd |accessdate=25 January 2014 }}</ref> A back injury in October kept Lewington out of first-team action during the middle of the month, allowing Jordan Seabright to step in.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=17 October 2013 |title=Seabright 'ready' for extended spell in Daggers starting line-up |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/seabright_ready_for_extended_spell_in_daggers_starting_line_up_1_2886593 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref>
After keeping a clean sheet in the Daggers 1–0 win against high-flying Rochdale on 1 February 2014, Lewington was insistent that his side could haul themselves back into the hunt for the play-off positions.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=3 February 2014 |title=Daggers goalkeeper Lewington — We can get back in play-off hunt after Rochdale win |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/daggers_goalkeeper_lewington_we_can_get_back_in_play_off_hunt_after_rochdale_win_1_3279984 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> Lewington then played his final game for the club on 18 April as Dagenham grabbed their first-ever win at Torquay United, with the decisive goal coming from Medy Elito as Lewington earned himself another clean sheet.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=18 April 2014 |title=Elito strike seals first ever Daggers win at Torquay |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/elito_strike_seals_first_ever_daggers_win_at_torquay_1_3565410 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> Jordan Seabright was given his chance to impress for the final few games of the season while both goalkeepers' contracts were due to expire at the end of the season.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=24 April 2014 |title=Seabright hopes to prove his worth and extend stay at Daggers |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/seabright_hopes_to_prove_his_worth_and_extend_stay_at_daggers_1_3571894 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> He made 45 appearances throughout the season for Dagenham.<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2013/2014">{{Soccerbase season|51920|2013|name=Chris Lewington|accessdate=25 January 2015}}</ref>
After spending five years with the club, Lewington decided it was the right time to leave in order to find a new challenge, having made 143 appearances during his stay.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=8 May 2014 |title=Defensive duo and striker depart Daggers early |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/defensive_duo_and_striker_depart_daggers_early_1_3591751 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref>
On 25 June, it was revealed Lewington was on trial with Championship side Watford, joining the team in their pre-season training camp in Udine, Italy, in a bid to earn a contract with the club.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Munford |first1=Colin |date=25 June 2014 |title=Former Dagger on trial at Watford |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/former_dagger_on_trial_at_watford_1_3656770 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref>
===Colchester United=== On 1 July 2014, League One club Colchester United confirmed the signing of Lewington on a three-year contract.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/28114781 |title=Chris Lewington, Ben Gordon and Sean Clohessy join Colchester Utd |date=1 July 2014 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=1 July 2014 }}</ref> Lewington was brought in to contest the number one jersey with Sam Walker, saying that "it's up to me to come in and try and make it mine".<ref>{{cite news |last1=Waldron |first1=Jonathan |date=4 July 2014 |title=Lewington determined to be U's first-choice keeper |url=http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/11319025.Lewington_determined_to_be_U_s_first_choice_keeper/ |newspaper=Daily Gazette |location=Colchester |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> In a pre-season friendly against Heybridge Swifts on 15 July, Lewington took the unusual step of starting in goal for the Swifts after their regular goalkeeper Danny Sambridge arrived late for the game. Lewington kept a clean sheet until Sambridge was ready to join the game, in what was an eventual 8–0 win for Colchester.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Waldron |first1=Jonathan |date=15 July 2014 |title=U's go goal crazy at Heybridge |url=http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/archive/2014/07/15/11342363.U_s_go_goal_crazy_at_Heybridge/ |newspaper=Daily Gazette |location=Colchester |accessdate=25 January 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150116115922/http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/archive/2014/07/15/11342363.U_s_go_goal_crazy_at_Heybridge/ |archive-date=16 January 2015 }}</ref> He also appeared in a friendly against his former club Dagenham & Redbridge, with the U's coming out on top in a 4–3 victory on 26 July.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Waldron |first1=Jonathan |date=26 July 2014 |title=Vose scores twice as U's beat Daggers |url=http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/11368710.Vose_scores_twice_as_U_s_beat_Daggers/ |newspaper=Daily Gazette |location=Colchester |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref>
Lewington was in line to make his Colchester United debut in their League Cup fixture against his boyhood club Charlton Athletic at The Valley on 12 August, where he expected friends and family to be in attendance for what was his local side, and the club he supported in his youth.<ref name="birthplace"/> He played the full 90 minutes in the match as Colchester fell to a 4–0 defeat.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/28652709 |title=Charlton 4–0 Colchester |date=12 August 2014 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=12 August 2014 }}</ref> With Sam Walker firmly established as Colchester's number one goalkeeper, Lewington had to wait until 14 April 2015 for his next first team opportunity, where he replaced Walker in the starting line-up for their League One fixture against Chesterfield. He conceded three goals in either half of a 6–0 defeat, bringing his tally to ten goals conceded in two games for the club.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/32199829 |title=Chesterfield 6–0 Colchester |date=14 April 2015 |publisher=BBC Sport |access-date=15 April 2015 }}</ref>
After just two first-team appearances for Colchester, in addition to the summer arrivals of Elliot Parish and Dillon Barnes, Lewington had his contract with the club cancelled by mutual consent on 3 September 2015.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Waldron |first1=Jonathan |date=6 September 2015 |title=U's set to raid loan window for new keeper? |url=http://www.gazette-news.co.uk/sport/colchesterunited/13648624.U_s_set_to_raid_loan_window_for_new_keeper_/? |newspaper=Daily Gazette |location=Colchester |accessdate=6 September 2015 }}</ref>
===Margate=== Lewington signed for Margate of the National League South on 18 December 2015,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kentonline.co.uk/thanet/sport/bull-completes-first-gate-signing-48068/|title=Margate manager Nikki Bull signs former Dagenham & Redbridge goalkeeper Chris Lewington|work=Kent Online|date=18 December 2015|accessdate=19 December 2015}}</ref> making his debut the following day in a 1–0 win against Gosport Borough.<ref name="Soccerway">{{cite web |url=https://int.soccerway.com/players/chris-lewington/90141/matches/ |title=Matches of C. Lewington |publisher=Soccerway |accessdate=18 April 2016 }}</ref>
===Welling United=== In July 2016 he signed for newly relegated Welling United of National League South.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nonleague.pitchero.com/news/wings-move-for-lewington-48181/ |title=Wings Move for Lewington |publisher=Pitch Hero Non League |date=1 July 2016 |accessdate=2 July 2016 }}</ref>
===Dover Athletic===
On 22 August 2017, Lewington signed for Dover Athletic after leaving Welling.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/41016627|title=Chris Lewington: Dover Athletic sign ex-Dagenham & Redbridge keeper|publisher=BBC Sport|date=22 August 2017|accessdate=24 August 2017}}</ref>
===Non-League=== On 19 January 2019 he joined Weymouth.<ref>[http://theterras.com/index.php/2019/01/19/terras-snap-up-goalkeeper-lewington/ Terras snap up goalkeeper Lewington], theterras.com, 19 January 2019</ref> But less than a month later, on 8 February 2019, he joined Maidstone United.<ref>{{Soccerway|chris-lewington/90141}}</ref> In April 2021, Lewington departed Maidstone to join Cray Valley Paper Mills.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.maidstoneunited.co.uk/2021/04/lewington-leaves-the-gallagher/|title=Lewington leaves the Gallagher|website=www.maidstoneunited.co.uk|date=25 April 2021|accessdate=18 June 2021}}</ref>
On 20 October 2023, Lewington signed a short-term deal with Dartford.
==Personal life== During his time playing non-league football, Lewington studied at university, where he achieved a Bachelor of Arts degree in physical education and sport.<ref name="CLG"/> He combined his playing career with working as a part-time teacher at the North West Kent College in Dartford, Kent, where he worked twice a week after training with Dagenham & Redbridge, helping the Dartford Academy team with their theory work.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Richards |first1=Joshua |date=8 February 2012 |title=Daggers keeper teaching a valuable lesson |url=http://www.barkinganddagenhampost.co.uk/sport/football/dagenham-and-redbridge/daggers_keeper_teaching_a_valuable_lesson_1_1203060 |newspaper=Barking & Dagenham Post |location=Ilford |accessdate=25 January 2014 }}</ref> Lewington himself was a graduate of the football academy 2008, and also helped out as a goalkeeping coach and sport lecturer.<ref name="NWKC"/> In addition to his North West Kent College work, Lewington runs his own specialised goalkeeping coaching sessions called CL Goalkeeping.<ref name="CLG"/>
==Career statistics== {{updated|match played 30 April 2016.}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align: center;" |+ Appearances and goals by club, season and competition |- !rowspan="2"|Club !rowspan="2"|Season !colspan="3"|League !colspan="2"|FA Cup !colspan="2"|League Cup !colspan="2"|Other !colspan="2"|Total |- !Division!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals!!Apps!!Goals |- |Dulwich Hamlet |2006–07<ref name="C. Lewington - Aylesbury United">{{cite web |url=http://www.aylesburyunitedfc.co.uk/players/chris-lewington#playingcareer |title=C. Lewington - Aylesbury United |publisher=Soccerbase |accessdate=25 January 2015 }}</ref> |IL Division One South |8||0||2||0||colspan=2|—||5<ref group=lower-alpha name=DUL>Appearances in FA Trophy, London Senior Cup and Surrey Senior Cup</ref>||0||15||0 |- |Beckenham Town |2006–07<ref name="C. Lewington - Aylesbury United"/> |Kent League |2||0||colspan=2|—||colspan=2|—||colspan=2|—||2||0 |- |Leatherhead |2008–09<ref name="C. Lewington - Aylesbury United"/> |IL Division One South |27||0||0||0||colspan=2|—||3<ref group=lower-alpha name=LEA>Appearances in Surrey Senior Cup and Isthmian League Cup</ref>||0||30||0 |- |rowspan="5"|Dagenham & Redbridge |2010–11<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2010/2011"/> |League One |3||0||2||0||0||0||1<ref group=lower-alpha name=FLT>Appearance(s) in the Football League Trophy</ref>||0||6||0 |- |2011–12<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2011/2012"/> |League Two |41||0||5||0||0||0||1<ref group=lower-alpha name=FLT/>||0||47||0 |- |2012–13<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2012/2013"/> |League Two |41||0||1||0||1||0||2<ref group=lower-alpha name=FLT/>||0||45||0 |- |2013–14<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2013/2014"/> |League Two |42||0||1||0||1||0||1<ref group=lower-alpha name=FLT/>||0||45||0 |- !colspan="2"|Total !127!!0!!9!!0!!2!!0!!5!!0!!143!!0 |- |rowspan="3"|Colchester United |2014–15<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2014/2015">{{Soccerbase season|51920|2014|name=Chris Lewington|accessdate=25 January 2015}}</ref> |League One |1||0||0||0||1||0||0||0||2||0 |- |2015–16<ref name="Games played by Chris Lewington in 2015/2016">{{Soccerbase season|51920|2015|name=Chris Lewington|accessdate=25 January 2015}}</ref> |League One |0||0||colspan=2|—||0||0||0||0||0||0 |- !colspan="2"|Total !1!!0!!0!!0!!1!!0!!0!!0!!2!!0 |- |Margate |2015–16<ref name="Soccerway"/> |National League South |23||0||colspan=2|—||colspan=2|—||colspan=2|—||23||0 |- !colspan="3"|Career total !188!!0!!11!!0!!3!!0!!13!!0!!215!!0 |}
{{Reflist|group=lower-alpha}}
==Honours== '''Dagenham & Redbridge''' *Football League Two play-offs: 2010<ref>{{cite news |url=https://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/eng_div_3/8701564.stm |title=Dagenham & Redbridge 3–2 Rotherham |first=Paul |last=Fletcher |website=BBC Sport |date=30 May 2010 |access-date=30 May 2025}}</ref>
==References== {{reflist}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Lewington, Chris}} Category:1988 births Category:Living people Category:Footballers from the London Borough of Bexley Category:People from Sidcup Category:English men's footballers Category:Men's association football goalkeepers Category:Charlton Athletic F.C. players Category:Erith & Belvedere F.C. players Category:Dulwich Hamlet F.C. players Category:Beckenham Town F.C. players Category:Fisher Athletic F.C. players Category:Sittingbourne F.C. players Category:Leatherhead F.C. players Category:Dagenham & Redbridge F.C. players Category:Colchester United F.C. players Category:Margate F.C. players Category:Welling United F.C. players Category:Dover Athletic F.C. players Category:Weymouth F.C. players Category:Maidstone United F.C. players Category:Cray Valley Paper Mills F.C. players Category:Dartford F.C. players Category:English Football League players Category:National League (English football) players Category:Isthmian League players Category:Southern Counties East Football League players Category:21st-century English sportsmen