Following Boardroom discussions and a weekend meeting with Manager Paul Holleran we are delighted to announce that he will continue in the hot seat for Season 2016-17.
Season 2015-16 was always going to be a difficult one following the deflation of our relegation from the Conference North. Historically clubs often struggle following a relegation as evidenced by Hyde United and Colwyn Bay who both having been relegated alongside us in 2014-15 have been relegated again this past season.
Whilst there have been disappointments this past campaign, it is testimony to the team management skills and spirit within the dressing room that we came so close to bouncing back at the first time of trying. That togetherness was shown when all players and management returned to the clubhouse post Hungerford and remained in each other's company for a couple of hours despite the deeply disappointing result.
As ever Paul Holleran and his management team will re-assess the playing staff acknowledging there is a need to re-energise the squad but also comfortable in the knowledge that a strong back-bone of experienced players are in place and up for the challenge of trying to secure promotion next season.
Behind the scenes we as Directors recognise that we too need to re-focus and re-energise our efforts for the club. The loss of car parking revenue allied to limited non-match day revenue is a challenge to be faced this season and one we are determined to overcome. Planning has already commenced and we intend to hold discussions with the Brakes Trust and supporters in general re widening our community appeal and fund raising opportunities.
We are already in discussions with Co-op Energy re a joint initiative on bringing schools across the area to the Phillips 66 Community Stadium on match-day for Guards of Honour. The work done by our Community Director Paul O'Rafferty at the end of last season showed the positive effect and impact of flag waving children at the ground plus bringing new faces to our home.
The long term discussions with Warwick District Council re the potential relocation of the club nearer to the heart of the community continue in a positive fashion and we are hopeful that we will be able to place a viable proposal before shareholders for a decision in the next two to three months.
There is much to be proud of at the club and the tremendous support from fans in the closing games of the season both in terms of numbers and passion reflects that. We look forward to a positive close season working to lay the foundations for a successful 2016-17 campaign.
Board Of Directors
Leamington Football Club
