It’s so special to be back together

THE NON-LEAGUE says…

WE WERE just about to launch our 2019- 20 NGAs when a global pandemic stopped everything in its tracks.

Who would have thought we’d have two disrupted seasons, a National League Promotion Final, an FA Trophy and Vase final played in an empty Wembley Stadium, a large proportion of a season played behind closed doors and, for the majority of Non-League, no football at all.

When the shutters came down on that first interrupted campaign, there were genuine fears how Non-League football would look when, eventually, they were rolled up again.

That the game came through largely unscathed is a huge testament to many people – the hardworking league administrators, dedicated club officials, determined managers, players and match officials, and the priceless volunteers.

First of all to keep clubs running and then, when crowds were able to return, by following often changing government protocols to keep everyone safe.

We saw the true spirit of Non-League football.

It was a reminder of why we all love this level of the game so much.

And it is testament to the strength of the football Pyramid – aunique structure the envy of football worldwide.

Non-League football is the heartbeat of the game in this country. On Tuesday we gathered at AFC Wimbledon’s Plough Lane home to celebrate the 2021-22 season.

Without our sponsors, it wouldn’t have been possible.

A special thank you to our title sponsors Buildbase, who have put a huge amount of investment into Non-League in recent years. We thank them for their support, as we do for our sponsors of each individual award.

Tuesday was a perfect reminder of why we all love Non-League. From the managers, players, chairmen, volunteers and fans, there are so many wonderful people doing so much. We were proud to be celebrating them all once again.