While Gloucester City take their battle to the play-offs to the last weekend of the season, new chairman Patrick Chambers explains his “enthusiasm” ahead of next year
After a turbulent start to the season for the Tigers, the ship was steadied by the arrival of head coach Steve King in September and a steady improvement
After climbing up the league and challenging for promotion, the club have stuttered at the crucial time and now face an uphill battle to make the play-offs this weekend.
The Tigers currently sit 11th in Vanarama National League North, but are only one point off the play-off places amidst a 10-team fight for the top seven.
While the club continue their fight on the pitch this season, change awaits off it next year, with Chambers taking the reigns as club chairman ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.
After four years as chairman of Hungerford Town – who are struggling towards the bottom of the same division – the experienced man says his team are keen to take advantage of operating higher up the pyramid on a bigger scale.
“The opportunity to go to a city, with a population of over 150,000 and crowds already double what we are used to is an opportunity to test ourselves.
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“We think we are good at what we do, and if we take the same enthusiasm and the same common sense, I see no reason why Gloucester City won’t become a National League club in the next three years.
“We have to get the finances right to lay a platform for us to kick on next year, that includes getting 2,000 fans there who have a great matchday experience.”
Chambers is no stranger to running a football club, and is well aware of the promising position his side are in regardless of whether the play-off dream is realised or not.
However, incoming chairman made no secret of the fact there are plans for change at Meadow Park, even if it is a long-term project.
“A big focus will be on ensuring we are competitive on the pitch, but equally we have to invest in some facilities and other areas of the club.
“The T-end for instance could have better viewing and that will be looked at; it will take some time but I hope the fans see our passion.
“No firm decisions have been made yet, but it is important fans are aware of our plans for the club.”
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With a visit from fellow play-off chasing Chorley on Saturday concluding their league campaign, only a win will do if the Tigers are to extend their season beyond this weekend.
Despite Chambers not being at the ground this weekend coming, there is no doubt he will still be able to hear the home fans at Meadow Park if the city side can pull off a shock and gain an unlikely play-off place.
