Wessex League suffers double setback
Solent University (formerly Team Solent) have tendered their resignation from the Sydenhams (Wessex) League prior to the forthcoming 2020/2021 season.
They have cited the “changing landscape of Higher Education which has caused a realignment of the priorities and the desire to support other sporting ambitions” as the reason for this decision.
The League has reported the resignation to the Football Association who will make the League allocations for next season
‘The Sparks’ released this statement on Twitter;
In further bad news for the Wessex League news has also broken that they are about to lose their long term sponsor ‘Sydenhams’.
The Wessex League and Sydenhams have issued a joint statement advising that the forthcoming season, 2020/2021, will be the last that Sydenhams will sponsor the Wessex League.
Lee Wright, Group Managing Director of Sydenhams said:
It has been a privilege for Sydenhams to have worked with the Wessex league over the past 17 years but we have now taken the difficult decision that 2020/21 will be our last season as sponsor.
The league has meant a huge amount to us all at Sydenhams and we would like to take this opportunity to applaud the exceptional work of the Wessex League and everyone associated with it. We are truly honoured to have been part of something so special for nearly two decades and wish you all the very best success for future.
Nick Spencer who is Acting Chairman of the Wessex League said:
It is with regret that I advise you Sydenhams Ltd will not be continuing with their sponsorship of the Wessex League at the conclusion of the 2020/2021 season.
The league and it’s member clubs have benefited immensely from the sponsorship by Sydenhams Ltd, during an unprecedented 17 year partnership, making it possible for the league to develop and be considered by many as one of the best Step 5/6 leagues in the country.
The decision is disappointing although understandable in the current economic crisis brought about by the Corona Virus pandemic.
In thanking Sydenhams Ltd for their sponsorship, on behalf of everyone involved with the league I would like to recognise the support from Ray Pride.