As we bid goodbye to the 2018-19 season we can allow ourself a brief period of self-congratulation on a second successive top ten finish in the Evo-Stik Premier League. Our success in the FA Cup was also as good as any in a generation.
The economic reality of the situation however, is that our current income streams cannot sustain us at this level. Teams in the Division have much more in terms of financial resources and next season will be even more difficult with South Shields missing out on promotion even with a reputedly huge budget and FC United of Manchester and Ashton Utd joining us.
Carl Macauley and Gary Martindale continue to preside over a team that punches above its weight. Our excellent stadium facility belongs at an even higher level. It is also expensive to run however!
In addition with gates at an average of just over 300 and poor returns from advertising, commercial sponsorship, Social Club (much improved of late) and match day hospitality the business has been sustained by the Roberts land sale monies, Cup income and Directors loans. It is simply not sustainable.
The Management team have been given a reduced budget from last season. Current projected income indicates that even this will be difficult to achieve. In short the club needs your help. The overwhelming majority of us want this level of football at the very least. This was endorsed at the last two AGMs by the Shareholders.
The management are in negotiations with players. Many of the current squad are taking a reduction. Carl and Gary have done likewise. All are making sacrifices. There will be less contracted players next season.
Sacrifices will have to be made by everybody. The long term strategy is to go the way of Basford Utd, Buxton, Hyde Utd and Scarborough Athletic and have our own 4G pitch. The feasibility study is well under way and we are aiming for the 2020-2021 season. This is essential to secure the future of the football club.
I will be holding a number of meetings with supporters by invitation, sponsors and ultimately shareholders over the coming weeks to secure further funds to sustain us and ensure our survival.
It has been an honour to serve as your Chairman even at this challenging time. I will continue to serve. However, the club needs your help to survive. There is an old saying: “Must is a great Master!” My message to all Wittoners’ is simple. We must!
John Salmon
Chairman
Witton Albion FC