Tavistock AFC announces leadership changes and free entry match for supporters

Tavistock AFC has announced changes to the way the club is run, alongside plans to offer free entry to an upcoming home match, as the club looks to reconnect with supporters during a difficult season.

In a statement released on Tuesday (13 January), the club said it had carried out a review of its operations, working practices and communication, which has led to the formation of a new Executive Committee with immediate effect.

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Tavistock AFC acknowledged that the club had not always communicated effectively with supporters. 

The statement said: “We therefore understand that the club has failed in its duty to communicate in an open and effective manner with each and every one of you. Therefore, it is time for change.” 

According to the press release, the new committee aims to place the community at the centre of the club’s future, working more closely with supporters, local businesses and other stakeholders. 

A period of transition is now underway, with the club asking the community to come together and support Tavistock AFC both on and off the pitch.

As part of this approach, Tavistock AFC has invited the public to attend its home Southern League South Division match against Mousehole AFC at Langsford Park on Saturday 24 January. 

Entry to the match will be free, although donations to the club will be welcomed. 

Season ticket holders are also being offered a complimentary drink before kick-off on presentation of their ticket.

ABOVE: The full club statement outlining plans for change (Image: Tavistock AFC)

The announcement comes during a challenging league campaign for Tavistock, who currently sit bottom of the Southern League South Division with 10 points after 22 matches. 

The Lambs have recorded three wins across home and away fixtures so far this season, with a goal difference of minus 37.

Attendances at Langsford Park this season have varied. League home crowds have ranged from 90 against Willand Rovers in September to a high of 274 for the Boxing Day fixture against Portishead Town. 

Tavistock’s current average home attendance of 142 is below the league average of 257.

In the statement, the club said: “Your club needs to return to the heart of Tavistock once again, holding the community close, and once again seeing us giving back to the local community both on and off the pitch.” 

Tavistock AFC was founded in 1888 and has played a long-standing role in the town’s sporting life. 

The club said it hopes the changes now being made will help rebuild trust and strengthen its relationship with supporters going forward.