Newcastle Jets striker Michael Bridges has written an open letter to FFA on behalf of his teammates, asking the governing body to quickly secure the club’s future in the Hyundai A-League.
Newcastle Jets striker Michael Bridges has written an open letter to FFA on behalf of his teammates, asking the governing body to quickly secure the club’s future in the Hyundai A-League.
Bridges, who made a return to playing this season after initially retiring at the end of season 2010/11, points to the Jets’ increased membership increased community engagement as positive signs for the future, and expresses his concern for the playing squad whose futures remain in serious doubt.
The letter in full reads:
AN OPEN LETTER TO THE FFA
Dear Mr Lowy
We write to you as a matter of urgency on behalf of the Newcastle Jets contracted players in the A-League competition.
We are all devastated that the Hunter Sports Group has returned its A-League licence but also acknowledge their reasons for doing so.
Since Nathan Tinkler’s involvement with the Jets we have been privileged to play with one of the most professional clubs in the A-League competition. The fact that many of our young players had the opportunity to play against David Beckham and the LA Galaxy was just one of the many unique experiences we have had.
We have all noticed a massive change for the better with community engagement, a true pathway for young locals, a 10,000 membership base, large and enthusiastic crowds and above all, a real connection with the community.
We are all very proud to have contributed to this massive change under the leadership and vision of the Hunter Sports Group.
As a sign of good faith from HSG we can confirm that our salaries for this month have been paid in advance.
We have no doubt there are two sides to a dispute like this, however we feel it is critical that the issues between HSG and the FFA are addressed as a matter of urgency.
Over the past seven years we have seen a variety of clubs collapse and others change ownership. This is not a stable environment for the competition, players and the fans.
Jets previous owner Con Constantine lost many millions of dollars and was forced to walk away from the game he loves after his team had its licence revoked because of financial problems.
Our game needs the type of people who are prepared to back football with their money, passion and beliefs for the game.
It is very disappointing to see so many clubs change hands in the A-League, and so many contracted players at risk.
We therefore ask you on behalf of the Jets players and fans, as the governing body, to address all issues with current owners before it becomes irretrievable.
We believe it is incumbent on the current A-League and FFA management to do everything in its power to protect the game, the players and the fans for the future of football in Australia.
With respect
MICHAEL BRIDGES
On behalf of:
Ryan Griffiths, Marko Jesic, Ben Kennedy, Jobe Wheelhouse, Ruben Zadkovich, Mitchell Oxborrow, Connor Chapman, Jack Duncan, Ben Kantarovski, Jacob Pepper, James Virgili
