Clubs are at heart of community

ASTORY involving Barnsley and their chief executive Gauthier Ganaye generated a lot of positive publicity this week. To recap, Ganaye sent a supportive letter to a lifelong fan, Chris Ryder, who had discussed his mental health problems on social media.

In his letter, Ganaye said: “You’ve been a fan of the club for many years and supported us, so we want you to know that if the favour needs returning and we need to support you, please do let us know.”

Ganaye said his ‘office door is always open’ and also included the contact details for mental health charity Mind, who are the official charity partner of the EFL this season.

Ryder told the BBC he was ‘shocked’ to receive the letter from the club and has labelled them the ‘Best football club in the world’.

At a time when there has been a lot of talk about incredible transfer fees and salaries in football, it’s nice to hear a simple story that is so positive.

But then again it shouldn’t surprise us. Football clubs up and down the land do a lot of great work in their communities, but more often than not it doesn’t get any coverage, or very little.

On page 2, we highlight how Derby, Nottingham Forest, QPR and Millwall are backing a new initiative by Prostate Cancer UK to raise vital funds and awareness of a disease that kills one man every 45 minutes. New Derby boss Frank Lampard has also raised his voice in support.

The power of football shouldn’t be underestimated. It can be a force for good in society, and it’s great to see the EFL and their clubs understand that.