A huge thank you to everyone that attended the EGM on Wednesday evening either in person or via the Zoom link. It was a very constructive and informative evening. We would all like to thank Richard Irving and Andy Walsh from The FSA for their ongoing support during this challenging time for our Club.
Since then, the remaining Board met on Thursday evening and put together a short-term plan of action based on the action points taken away from the meeting. We have continued to work closely with The FSA and all the actions contained within this update have their full approval.
Our key issue right now is the establishment of a quorate Board and so, we will be seeking to elect 5 new Board members at the forthcoming election and the election notices will be published tomorrow. Nomination forms will be available on the website, and from the election officer, from Monday, November 7th. Anyone who wishes to stand, nominate or vote in the election must be an adult or concession member at 5pm on Sunday, November 6th. Full details will be available on the election notices.
Next week, the Board will meet to review the most urgent needs around our Club and as discussed at Wednesday’s meeting, set up working parties to address them. It is anticipated that there will be groups, led by a current Board member, to work on communication, volunteers, football, commercial and finance (this is an area in which the need is one of the most pressing, so any offer of help, short or long term, will be gratefully received). If you feel you would like to work on any of these groups, or have any other suggestions, please do speak to any Board member at the game tomorrow or email support@afcdiamonds.com.
A big thank you to everyone who shops at the Co-op and chose our Club as their local community cause. We were delighted to receive a total of £2,248.74 from the store manager in Higham Ferrers this week as part of their payout event.
Tomorrow, the 1st team play Kings Langley FC at Hayden Road and we are looking forward to seeing everyone there. We would encourage everyone to arrive a few minutes earlier than usual as ahead of kick off, there will be a bucket collection and minute’s applause in memory of U23 Scholarship player, Artur Makula. Artur joined the club via the scholarship programme for this academic year and was about to begin his study as an undergraduate at Moulton College. Artur loved football and, even in his short time with the club, was proud to wear the AFC Rushden & Diamonds badge. He was a huge Charlton Athletic fan who was driven and passionate about the sport he played. Throughout his playing career he influenced many players around him, always encouraging them to want to be better. Sadly, Artur passed away in September, aged 18.
He will be missed by all those who knew him, our thoughts and prayers remain with his family at this time. All funds raised at tomorrow’s game will be gifted to Artur’s close family, to support them financially throughout this period.
Tragedies like this are not far from the hearts of AFC Rushden & Diamonds fans, as we remember the life and legacy of Dale Roberts. Whilst we mourn their sad passing, we celebrate the life they had and the joy they brought to those around them.
Finally, we are sure that you will all join us in saying a very big thank you to Matt Ward as he steps down from the Board. Matt has given over 10 years’ service to our Club and his contribution has been enormous. We wish him, and his family, all the best for the future and look forward to seeing him on the Peter De Banke Terrace soon.
