Hartlepool United appoint Jeff Stelling and Savannah Marshall to key roles

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Hartlepool United have named broadcasting icon and lifelong supporter Jeff Stelling as honorary president and appointed world champion boxer Savannah Marshall as the club’s official ambassador.

The move formalises the involvement of two of the town’s most recognisable sporting figures following the takeover by owner and chairman Landon Smith earlier this year.

Stelling, synonymous with Saturday afternoon football after his long stint hosting Soccer Saturday, grew up in Hartlepool and has maintained a close association with the club for decades.

His return in an official capacity fulfils Smith’s pledge to bring him back into the fold.

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Proud

Stelling said: “Hartlepool United has been part of my life for as long as I can remember.

“I’ve supported the club through the highs and the lows, like every Poolie. To now have the opportunity to once again formally represent Pools is something I’m incredibly proud of.

“I’ve had positive conversations with Landon and I’ve been impressed by his approach.

“He is taking the time to listen and understand the Club and he is focused on doing things properly.

“There is no rush to make promises, just a clear commitment to building in the right way.

“I would not have returned in any capacity if I did not believe in what is being done. If I can play even a small part in helping restore Pools, I will give it everything.”

Inspire

Marshall is an undisputed world boxing champion in two weight classes.

The proud Hartlepool native and lifelong fan of the Pools has also committed to a long-term role supporting the club on matchdays and within the community.

She said: “I sat with Landon at the game against Altrincham and I was struck by how quickly he grasped what this club means to the town and its supporters.

“He’s taken the time to listen and understand and he’s been clear that success has to be built properly, not rushed.

“You can see he cares about doing things the right way and protecting the long-term interests of the club. That matters to me.

“I love Hartlepool United and I’m here for the long term. The club is woven into this community and I’m proud to step into this role.

“Whatever I can do to help move it forward, inspire young people and represent it in the right way, I will.”

Passion

Marshall and Stelling met with Smith during his initial visit to Hartlepool in January following completion of the takeover.

The announcement comes as Smith returns to the town this week to attend Wednesday’s home fixture against Carlisle United.

He said: “Over the past two months, I’ve spent a lot of time listening and meeting people connected to Hartlepool United, and it’s become clear just how important Jeff and Savannah are to this club and this town.

“When you meet people of their stature, sometimes reputation can outweigh reality.

“With Jeff and Savannah, it was the opposite. I was hugely impressed. Their passion for Pools is genuine.

“Their connection to the town is authentic and both can contribute incredible value to this club’s journey.

“These appointments are about bringing the club together and channelling passion, knowledge and skill sets in the right way.

“Formalising their involvement as Honorary President and Ambassador is an important step as we start to put in place strong foundations, governance, connections and resources for the long-term future of Pools.”

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