What's happening at Darlington FC
Behind the scenes – update 17
Here is the latest of the behind the scenes updates of events at Darlington FC.
The Boards of Darlington FC and DFCSG continue to meet regularly via video conference call, to discuss various ongoing relevant matters. They last met on Thursday 23rd July 2020
The next league season:
As you have no doubt seen in the national press, the FA have released guidance for the return of grassroots football and within that the National League System guidance states that fixtures for Steps 1 & 2 will start no earlier than Saturday 5th September, subject to change due to Government guidance at that time. The full National League System guidance can be found by clicking this link
http://www.thefa.com/-/media/thefacom-new/files/get-involved/2020/nls-pyramid-guidance.ashx?la=en
In order to prepare for an eventual start to the 2020/21 season, the Club is currently undertaking full risk assessments, some in conjunction with DRFC, in order to make Blackwell Meadows Covid-19 Secure, before games can be played. At this time, there is no clear Government guidance on whether spectators will be permitted.
Since the board meeting, the National League issued further guidance about a possible season start on Saturday 3rd October, with the season ending on Saturday 29th May 2021. Our first game is expected to be an FA Cup second qualifying round tie.
We will have to adopt certain protocols, especially the safe return of spectators. We will keep everybody informed when information is available.
Commercial:
We are currently reviewing and updating the Commercial Brochure, and this will be ready within the next couple of weeks. In the last week, we have confirmed the signing of the agreement with our main sponsors Ebac, and also a sponsorship extension with the Mowden pub. There will be further announcements coming soon.
Community engagement:
The club has continued to be very active through various means:
Other news:
Coming up, we will:
Throughout these very difficult and unprecedented times, we have maintained a very high profile for the club on our official website and social media channels, and we will continue to do so until we resume matches for the benefit of our much-valued volunteers and loyal supporters and sponsors.
Thank you for your continued support, it is very much appreciated.
Remember, follow the guidelines and stay safe.