“You have six supporters as directors and we all want to make it work.”
Mike Goodwin - The New CFC Chairman.
As a Spireite, Friday 7th August felt like a landmark day for the club. Sat at the press conference it felt history was being written which left me strangely optimistic, something I haven't felt for a while. Not only has the club returned to the fans but it's the first time a football club has been owned by a charity. The Community Trust has been part of the club for years and Mike Goodwin (pictured in the middle of the three) becomes the clubs chairman. By his side are Martin Thacker MBE (Left) and Dave Simmonds (Right) who are both vice-chairmen. There will also be three fellow trustees; Jane Cooper, Terry Ward and Dr Paul Stankard. The club secretary will be Peter Whiteley.
The new Community Trust have promised the following key principles:
1. Use the power of football and Chesterfield FC to make a positive difference to the lives of the people of North Derbyshire and be recognised as an excellent employer.
2. Build and maintain partnerships with commercial organisations and community bodies in North Derbyshire.
3. Create opportunities for learning, training and employment pathways and champion inclusivity to make the Technique Stadium and all activities staged there as accessible as possible.
4. Preserve the heritage and safeguard the future of Chesterfield FC as a professional football club with the aim of playing at the highest level possible.
5. Engage with supporters and involve them where possible as a transparent and accountable club.
Proper stability is critical now for EVERYONE at the club, including the fans to get back to winning ways. So, no matter how long it takes to return to the football league, if it’s done correctly, than I for one don't mind as long as the atmosphere's there. I feel this is the closest we've been for the “bounce” to return to the stadium which has been missing for a long time. With our new owners though, it seems we have a fighting chance.
“I've been a supporter of this club since I was 6 or 7, when my dad took me to Saltergate and I stood on the Cross Street end" our new chairman proudly recalled at the press conference.
2020 may be a year to forget for all things Covid-19 related but this is the year that our club's rebuilt on solid foundations, is looking to the future. Make no mistake, It will take time (and money) but as money is unfortunately the name of the game in football these days, the club needs to tread carefully if it's to balance the books. With a Chairman who's got over 30 years as an accountant under his belt, I'm confident we're in safe hands!
To the future!
COYB's!!!
Words & image: Michael South