Page 11 - Ashton & Backwell FC v Brislington 150422

THANK YOU

This is our last home game of the 21/22 season and therefore last programme
in what has been without doubt the most challenging in our 12 seasons here at
the Lancer Scott stadium, on and off the pitch.
Non-League Paper
Before a competitive ball was kicked, following 2 covid hit seasons a manager
leaves in April, his replacement leaves 3 days before the season starts! We got
promoted but away travel increases from 960 miles to 2430 miles, travel costs
are at least 6 times higher. A positive challenge has been the high quality of the
sides in the premier Division, 18 very competitive sides, some with some crazy
money. Without the following people, it would have made impossible to get
through the season.
So I want to take this opportunity to say a massive THANK YOU to all the
following. We are so grateful. All bar one are volunteers.
Matt Southern, who is Vice-Chairman and Reserves coach, stepped up as
Caretaker manager for 2 very hard months, as did Smarty and Radders
(Reserves managers) All doubling their work load. Disco Dean helped in the dug
out at times.
In Charlie Cole, we have as good a secretary you will find in the league (except
when she has a hang over!!) Johnathan and Phil have supported me and the club
as new committee members.
The ladies on match days, Sue and Julie ( I love her!) in the kitchen, Charlie &
Meet the Player
Jess in the bar along with Charlie Cole hosting the officials and opposition
committee’s.
Our sponsors are a vital lifeline allowing us to travel in style, look smart and pay
the bills. In particular Lancer Scott (Steve Price and Gary Sollers), Ashton Glass
(Jeff Flicker) SMG Screeding (matt Southern), SNT Plumbing (Sam Thomas)
Prelon ltd (Derek & Tom Press), NorthGrant Scaffolding, Fromula Aluminium
Systems.
YOU, the supporters, our attendances have been higher than ever before. From
Tony & Mike who have been here 40 years plus, (R.I.P. MAURICE) down to all
the 12-14 year backwell lads making a noise in the Bill Coggins stand.
When managers thought the grass was greener (it wasn’t!) or life is easier( it
probably is!) left, most PLAYERS decided to stay at a club without a playing
budget, most of whom have been here a long time, your ability, loyalty and
friendship, is valued. I know your phone rings and usually I know which club it
is! The new lads that Beech has brought in are good footballers but even better
characters.
I was so relieved when Tony(beech) accepted the managers job here, He
brought in Jim and Ryan, in a difficult situation. At this level, the hard work these
guys put in, the time, effort is unbelievable.
Backwell camera club, Jo, Mike, Peter etc for their match day action shots for the
programme, our website, twitter, league website, the press.
Last but not least, most Chairman need the love and support of a very good
woman, I am extremely fortunate to have that in Julie Thomas. Yes the blonde
one in the kitchen. THANK YOU