The chairman of Thornaby FC, Garry Morris, has publicly criticised his own board after they voted to disband all women’s and girls’ teams from the club. The controversial decision, led by committee members and spearheaded by Trevor Wing, has resulted in over 100 young female players being left without a team, affecting age groups from Under 7 to Under 15, as well as the women’s senior team.

The move has ignited a backlash from the public and sponsors alike, with at least one sponsor already pulling its support from the club. In a statement issued today, Morris expressed his disapproval and called on the board to reconsider their positions.

“In light of the recent actions taken by the board of Thornaby FC, of which I am chairman, I would like to take this opportunity to clarify my thoughts at an extremely difficult time for the club and more importantly, the female players affected by these actions,” Morris stated. “The decision to withdraw support for the women’s team is one that I do not agree with, and along with another member of the committee, voted against it at yesterday’s emergency meeting.”

Morris emphasised his commitment to the club’s female players and questioned the board’s decision-making process. “I have made my feelings known to the board, have asked them to reconsider their decision, and also to consider their positions on the board as patrons and trustees of the football club,” he added. “We are empowered by the fans of the club to make the right decisions for the future of the club, and all those who show their unwavering support to both the male and female teams of all age groups deserve better.”

The chairman’s statement reflects the broader community’s sentiment, as fans and stakeholders express their disappointment and frustration over the board’s actions. The future of Thornaby FC’s women’s and girls’ teams now hangs in the balance, with Morris pledging to advocate for their reinstatement.

This development marks a significant moment in Thornaby FC’s history, as the club grapples with internal discord and public outcry. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the board will heed Morris’s call for reconsideration and restore the women’s and girls’ teams to their rightful place in the club.