Accies,
Well, what a weekend that was…
No better place to start than with the events of Friday night! I want to congratulate Daz, Dylan, the rest of their coaching team, and of course the players for ensuring League One survival with victory over Clyde. There were times, mostly for factors outside of the team’s control, that survival looked an impossibility, but it shows the character in the group that they stood tall and got the job done by whatever means necessary.
For the fans, I want to thank them, not just for the fact that you all turned out in big numbers across all 4 play off games, but for sticking by the team all season and for your support of myself and the Board since our takeover. If any set of fans deserved nights like that, it’s you guys. You are first class.
I wanted to take this opportunity to discuss a few plans for the coming season but want to start by addressing the situation with HMRC. As we stated in our communication last week, we never disputed the legacy debt and engaged to provide a very clear and swift resolution to ensure all amounts were paid, along with evidence of incoming funds. This was rejected, as were any offers of a constructive meeting, and were disappointed when the petition was filed. However, we have moved quickly to ensure all historical liabilities will be cleared this week with the petition being withdrawn at that stage.
We will communicate separately at that point, and continue to do so on all relevant matters. We are aware there is a lot of noise around the club constantly, but continue to ask you to rely on our official communications for updates.
In such a short time we have had to fight many battles, including many that have seriously impacted on the club’s ability to exist. I’m proud that we are still here, still fighting and overcoming challenges and looking forward. A huge part of our ability to overcome these challenges is down to the hard work and dedication of Rebecca Nuttall, Allan Currie, Neil Blankstone and the rest of the Board, our HR and legal advisors, and of course for Ben Paterson for keeping fans in the loop through thick and thin. The team behind the team, as they say.
Back to on field matters, and its been no secret that there will be a number of on field changes as we look to build a squad that is not only competitive, but within a sustainable budget; and we are well under way in assembling a strong side for next season.
We have been extremely clear from the outset that the club will rely on revenue-driven growth. As a senior management team, we back ourselves to take advantage of commercial opportunities and grow our impact within the community but also rely on fans coming out to support the team. It’s simple, the more revenue we generate, the more we can invest in the first team. We hope that by being back at New Douglas Park next season, and with our focus on community and social impact, that you will all turn out in your numbers. It’s so important.
We are by no means where we want the club to be, but we remain focused on ensuring we continue to make progress on and off the field and provide you with a Hamilton Academical that doesn’t just exist, but gives you something to be proud of.
Thank you.
Rob
