To the South Croydon Football Club Community,

As we move into what would have been the first weekend of football for the year, a short note touching base with our wonderful members and supporters.

As we know, the challenge presented by the COVID-19 virus continues, with government advice updating regularly. It appears there are some encouraging signs that the social/personal distancing advice is being followed and that this is having the desired effect in “flattening the curve”, but we would urge you to continue following the advice to help keep your friends and family safe.

Our thoughts are with those of you who have had their employment or businesses impacted by the virus and the subsequent trading restrictions. Please ensure you seek out the appropriate government support being made available. Also our thoughts and thanks, to those currently working in front line health roles looking after the sick and to those in support roles, ensuring our doctors and nurses can continue to do what they do best.

The playing groups remain in good spirits, with many keeping up their fitness in the hope that a season, in some form, can get underway soon. I have also witnessed the care shown within the groups for each other, so whilst we cannot be complacent, I know we are in a strong position as a club. Our coaches and team leaders should be commended for this.

As we know, all football is on hold until 31st May at the very earliest. The EFNL is currently surveying clubs on a range of issues to do with getting the season back on track and the results will be presented to a Board meeting mid-April. We hope to understand more after that meeting, however at this stage, we would not expect to know about any start date until May some time.

We are currently collating financials to the end of March, which will enable the Executive committee to review our position. We are aware some players, members and sponsors have already made payments for the 2020 season and we thank you for your patience while we sort through this information. We do however have expenses to cover from the preseason, so like the AFL clubs, we continue to rely heavily on the support of members and sponsors at this time. Once we have reviewed the financials and have more information from the EFNL, we will provide further information.

Finally, we are keen to run some online social activities and are working on a few ideas behind the scenes, so stay tuned on that front. In the meantime, for those on social media, enjoy the “throwback” photos being shared.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the club by direct message.

Regards,

Steve Duke
President