Club’s kit tribute for key workers
NON-LEAGUE OUTFIT’S STRIP PLEDGE
A NORTH non-league football club is to honour the efforts of the NHS and key workers on their playing kit next season.
Northern League Division One club Whickham have confirmed that they are to replace their traditional front of shirt sponsorship with an image incorporating the rainbow that has become a symbol of support for key workers throughout the coronavirus epidemic.
The club has asked a number of schools and the local community to take part in a competition to design the image that will be placed on a commemorative shirt to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their FA Vase Final win against Willenhall Town.
The winning entry will be awarded with the first kit off the production line and a season ticket for the 2020/21 campaign.
Whickham also announced a number of other initiatives to honour the hard work and dedication shown by frontline workers during the spread of Covid-19.
The club has confirmed that they will hold a minute’s applause ahead of every home game next season and the first game of the campaign will be free entry for all supporters.
Director of football, Neil Wilson, explained the reasons behind the decision, saying: “Everyone here at Whickham Football Club wanted to play their part, showing their support for the brave men and women that have all played their part in these unprecedented times.
“We, like many other clubs, have troubles at the moment, but it doesn’t compare to the troubles that those working on the frontline are dealing with.
“Therefore, we are delighted to dedicate the front of our home shirt next season to those people.
“At the club, we have players, management and committee members, whose family or friends are on the frontline.
“This is a cause close to our hearts, as it is with everyone else, and we want to show solidarity and support during this time.
“There will be a minute’s applause prior to the start of every home game.
“We’re also pleased to announce that everyone will be invited to the first game back at the Glebe.
“We hope the community can get on board with this initiative and also continue to show their support for the NHS and all of our key workers.”
Whickham are the latest Northern League club to show their support for the NHS.
Division One rivals West Auckland Town donated around £3,000 from their players’ pool to the NHS, and Division Two clubs Bedlington Terriers and Billingham Synthonia both made donations to local hospitals.
Earlier this week, Redcar Athletic also confirmed that their new away shirt will bear the slogan “Thank You NHS”, and all profits from sales will be donated to the health service.
Everyone here at Whickham Football Club wanted to play their part
NEIL WILSON