National League hoping to secure financial support package for Hartlepool United, Notts County, Chesterfield and other member clubs ahead of October 3 start date
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The start of the 2020-21 National League season was plunged into uncertainty when the Government announced that plans for spectators to return to stadiums from October would be put on hold amid the rapidly rising rate of coronavirus infections across the country.
With matchday income from supporters vital to clubs across the National League, starting the season behind closed doors is not seen as a viable option for many unless external funding can be secured.
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Hide AdAnd following a board meeting on Thursday, September 24, the National League released a statement confirming that it is hoping to secure a financial support package that could allow the season to start as planned.
The statement read: “In recognition of the financial uncertainty facing its member clubs, The National League is actively engaged with Government, with the assistance of The Football Association, to secure a critical financial support package, and it is hoped this can be announced very soon.
“It is imperative the revenue shortfall caused by the pause to the safe return of spectators is responsibly addressed so each club can operate sustainably over the course of the forthcoming season.”
Hartlepool United are set to open their season against Aldershot Town at Victoria Park on Saturday, October 3.
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Hide AdPools have sold 1,500 season tickets but fans will have to wait before they are allowed to attend matches in person.
The majority of National League clubs were in favour of the season starting as scheduled on October 3.
But 18 out of 22 clubs in the predominantly part-time National League North issued a joint statement declaring that they would not be willing to start the 2020-21 season unless a financial support package was in place.
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Hide AdWith no confirmation of financial aid, the latest statement from the National League will do little to ease the concerns of clubs across the country as they now await a further statement.
As it stands, the season is still set to get under way next weekend.