Our chief executive Jason Turner has provided an update to supporters as preparations commence for the 2020-21 campaign.
Despite a difficult weekend for all connected with the club, I’m pleased to report that there remains a very positive atmosphere behind the scenes as we embark on the latest chapter of the exciting story we began one year ago.
Neal spoke a lot in the build-up to our play-off final about the way the whole club has come together since Chris and Alex’s takeover, and that team spirit shone through last weekend as all who were fortunate enough to attend the game – staff, guests, players and the board – came together for some post-match refreshments at a hotel close to Wembley.
It was lovely to hear Chris address the whole room and thank everyone for their efforts over the course of the season, while Neal also spoke brilliantly. Yes, we were all disappointed with how the match went, but the determination from everyone to go one better next year was clear to see.
When we returned to Meadow Lane on Monday to begin planning for next season we were greeted by a number of supporter flags tied to the stadium gates. It was heart-warming to come home to such supportive messages and I’m sure you’ll all agree that the flags displayed at Wembley looked fantastic, too. My colleague Alice Kelk will be in touch with everyone who purchased a flag to arrange either postage or ongoing display at Meadow Lane.
The first item on this week’s agenda was our retained list. While we were pleased to give several players the opportunity to stay with us, we were also sad to say goodbye to a number of others who have served us with huge commitment and pride. We wish all outgoing players the very best for the future and look forward to hopefully bringing you news of new contracts – and signings – in the coming weeks.
We’re very nearly in a position to share the designs of our 2020-21 home kit and pre-orders will be available straight away, so keep your eyes peeled for updates on our digital channels. As we’re still negotiating with a potential sponsor for our away kit we’re unable to bring you any updates as yet but we hope we’re not too far away.
As I’m sure you’ll have seen, a new home kit brings a new sponsor in Sharpes of Nottingham. We have a wonderful long-running relationship with Sharpes, who have been our official travel partners for many years, so we’re delighted that Cadbury chose them as one of the beneficiaries of our exciting new partnership. Click here for more information.
In the near future I’ll be attending a National League Zoom meeting to learn more about what next season will look like. A start date of 3 October has been confirmed and it’s hoped that over the next few weeks we’ll understand more about if, how and when crowds will be able to return to matches. Until this picture is clearer we’re unable to confirm details of our 2020-21 season ticket offering but please rest assured we will act as quickly as possible when we’re in a position to do so.
As the EFL season begins three weeks before ours, our pre-season opponents will all need to come from our level or below and, while our friendlies will most likely all be played behind closed doors, there is potential for us to stream them live on social media. We’ll let you know the details as soon as we have them.
We’re also still awaiting news on the plans to conclude the 2019-20 FA Trophy and, until a decision has been reached, we’ll be unable to refund any tickets purchased for either leg of our semi-final. We really appreciate your patience on this matter and hope to have a resolution soon.
As the new season draws closer we’ll be able to begin delivering more of the rewards purchased during our successful Crowdfunder campaign over lockdown. If you have any questions in the meantime, please email jordan.worthington@nottscountyfc.co.uk.
So, in summary, there’s plenty going on at the Lane and we’re already focussing on next season. Everyone at every level of the club remains determined to deliver success and we’ll be working harder than ever in 2020-21 to give ourselves the best possible chance of returning to the EFL.
Thank you for your loyal support – and COYP!