After the dust has finally settled on what has been an incredible and hard-fought season, we can say with real pride that Yate Town FC have not just survived — we have earned a hugely respectable 13th-place finish. Every player, every staff member, and every supporter have played their part in something truly special.
A huge congratulations to Walton & Hersham FC on a well-deserved promotion. And to whoever rises through the intensity and pressure of the play-offs — you will have earned every bit of it the hard way.
We also want to take a moment to recognise the four clubs who have been relegated. These are proud, historic, and respected sides — clubs with deep roots in the game. We wish them nothing but strength and success moving forward and we’ve no doubt they will come back fighting next season.
But just as importantly, we need to address something that matters to us as a club.
The negative comments directed towards Weymouth FC are not what we stand for. Yes, there were difficult and unfortunate moments surrounding our home fixture — but that is part of football. It should never spill over into disrespect or hostility.
Football is built on passion — but also on respect. Rivalries should inspire, not divide. Football should bring people together and not create hostilities
We want to be absolutely clear: Yate Town FC does not support or condone any negative or disrespectful comments made on social media. We stand for unity, respect, and sportsmanship.
Our paths with Weymouth will cross again — and when they do, it should be with mutual respect, not resentment.
Because at the heart of it all, this game is, as stated before, about bringing people together.
Mark Thorne