Amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, non-league football clubs found solace and support in The National Lottery. As the world begins to emerge from the shadows of the crisis, these clubs are keen to express their gratitude and welcome fans back to the stadiums. Through a remarkable initiative called The National Lottery Football Weekends, over 100,000 lucky individuals will have the chance to experience the thrill of non-league football firsthand, all while acknowledging the invaluable assistance provided by The National Lottery.
Supporting Non-League Football Through The National Lottery:
The National Lottery’s contribution of £12.5 million ($16.7 million) offered a lifeline to non-league football clubs during the darkest days of the pandemic. Chester, one of the beneficiary clubs, sees the post-pandemic era as an opportunity to reciprocate the support received from The National Lottery. Their initiative aims not only to thank the organization but also to recognize the lottery players whose contributions kept non-league clubs afloat during unprecedented times.
Gratitude and Celebration:
Darlington’s Chief Operating Officer, David Johnston, echoes the sentiment of gratitude, emphasizing the remarkable role played by National Lottery players in ensuring the survival of clubs like Darlington. The upcoming National Lottery Football Weekends serve as a celebration of resilience, community spirit, and the unique experience offered by non-league football. Ambassadors Ally McCoist and Karen Carney commend the perseverance of these clubs and encourage fans to show their support from the terraces.
A Welcome Return to the Terraces:
For clubs like Chester FC, the sight of fans filling the stands is a long-awaited delight. Jim Green, Vice-Chairman of Chester FC, expresses his joy at the prospect of welcoming supporters back to the ground. The National Lottery Football Weekends initiative symbolizes a reunion between clubs and their most cherished stakeholders – the fans.
The National Lottery Football Weekends stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of non-league football and the invaluable support provided by The National Lottery. As stadiums prepare to reopen their gates, fans eagerly anticipate the opportunity to once again immerse themselves in the passion and excitement of the game at this grassroots level. Through unity, gratitude, and celebration, non-league football emerges stronger than ever, ready to write the next chapter of its remarkable story.