8th tier club sadly confirm in statement they are struggling to keep afloat

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8th tier club Stocksbridge Park Steels sadly confirm in a statement released on Friday (31st May) they are struggling to keep afloat.


They finished the 23/24 Northern Premier League – East Division season sitting 15th, with 40 points from 38 games played, and four points above the drop zone. They also had an average attendance of 200.


But the club, where Jamie Vardy started his senior career at, revealed that in the current economic conditions, they are facing similar issues to other well-established non league clubs in financial ruin, either by going into administration, folding or by seeking buyers at the highest price. 




CLUB STATEMENT:

We are extremely proud at Stocksbridge Park Steels of our club, and the history we have created in such a short time. In the 38 years since our history began, we have spent the majority of them, playing in the NPL, one of the most coveted leagues in the country, and are now considered as South Yorkshires Top Non- League Football club. During these years we have developed players, who have gone on to play at the highest levels of football, including England Internationals. Thus, establishing a clear and successful pathway from our Juniors, through to the Senior side.

Unfortunately, in today’s economic climate, pride and history isn’t enough to ensure the future of any business, let alone a small volunteer run football club.  We have seen over the last months and weeks so many other established clubs going to the wall, entering administration or looking to sell to the highest bidder. Unfortunately, we too are fighting for survival, and seeking financial security and stability all in a sustainable way.

Since Covid, as a club, we have seen rising costs, and less income from sponsorship, advertising and fundraising, and with limited income streams due to the way the club is structured.  We do not own our ground and have limited secondary income streams.

However hard it becomes we are prepared to fight for the future of this wonderful family friendly club and continue to make developments on and off the pitch.

We simply don’t know what the future looks like yet, but with the continuing efforts of the Committee, our volunteers and fans, we endeavour to continue working hard to stabilise, and move the club forward in a sustainable way. This is our position. We know that so much in football is about expectation, and we remain realistic and pragmatic.

We would like to express our gratitude to all our club patrons and sponsors and thank them for their continuing support which has contributed to another successful season.

If you would like to become a sponsor, we offer a variety of packages to suit all budgets and sizes of business. Contact Roger Gissing (rpg.sps@mail.com, 07507387775) to learn more about how we can work together to achieve your business goals.

Season Tickets for the 2024/2025 season are now on sale, these offer excellent value for money, and will appeal to anyone looking for affordable football for all.

If you think you can offer help in any way to the club, by volunteering, running events, becoming a sponsor, or simply want to join the fun on match days. Don’t be shy, we would love to hear from you!

Together we can keep writing our history.

Stocksbridge Park Steels Committee







SEE MORE: Fans shocked as 7th tier club resigns from league with immediate effect and chairman stands down


This is how fans reacted as the 8th tier club sadly confirm in a statement they are struggling to keep afloat…


Mike Bayly: I first watched Steels in 2017. I said at the time it was one of the friendliest grounds I’ve ever visited. The same is true today. I’ll continue to do my bit as occasional match day photographer. It’s a pleasure to help out when I can at such a wonderful club.


@Eggy5691: @vardy7 owt you can do to help?


Terry Hawksworth: Vardy could donate a weeks wages a drop in ocean for him sure he has a great affinity for the club.


Sean Richard: Maybe see if Vardy could chip in?


James P Mahon: this is a very sad situation


Steve Letts: Get them players that done well from your like vardy to give you a few pounds will not hurt them.


Rudy Aherne: Can Vardy stick a few quid in?


@CarltonFans: Good luck. Great people, great ground and clubhouse and the added bonus of getting your steps in on the way to the ground. People of Stockbridge – get behind your team.


@ForeverOUFC: Really hope they’ll be alright, definitely worth groundhopping if you haven’t already. shame it’s coming to this for so many non league clubs, more than ever before it feels








 


 

 



 

 


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