While the plights of the top league clubs are obviously at the front of the media attention, the current situation is devastating for clubs throughout the pyramid.
Dartford FC, the National League South club, have released a very positive statement. One of the standout comments is "the issues now facing the club relate not to survival, but to recovery."
The club is not in any danger, and will be active next season.
Dartfords stance on finishing this season is that health comes first, but the Board has continued to press for a sporting outcome and to prepare for playoffs and promotion should the league decide to take that route.
All staff, playing and non-playing, will be paid in full by the club.
The club will continue to help the local community, with the stadium being used by the NHS.
The 19/20 season for Dartford was one that started with relegation worries after a bad start, but by the time of the suspension of the league Dartford were the form team, sitting in the play-offs and looking good .
It sounds like we are in a good position, a well run club living within its means. Hopefully we are in the majority, and the current situation doesn't leave too many clubs in real difficulty.
"Not survival, recovery"
posted on 4/5/20
cool
posted on 4/5/20
Glad to hear my local club are well placed to survive this. A couple of guys I play tennis with are involved with Dartford so they'll be pleased.
posted on 4/5/20
Dartford manager was in the news saying NL teams needed to be bailed out. I'll try to find ybe link.
posted on 4/5/20
https://www.kentonline.co.uk/dartford/sport/fears-for-the-future-224025/
posted on 4/5/20
Luckily Dartford are not one of those clubs. Hopefully all clubs can get through this, but I have doubts.
posted on 4/5/20
Yeah, I have huge doubts as well. I dunno how they've pulled it off but Dartford will be in a minority IMO and that's for the near future. At the end of the day, if it goes on long enough then no one is safe.
posted on 4/5/20
Dartford are toast...