Ryman League threatened with oblivion
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Prepartions for the new non-League season have been overshadowed by a row over restructuring of the semi-professional game which threatens the future of the Ryman League.
Prepartions for the new non-League season have been overshadowed by a row over restructuring of the semi-professional game which threatens the future of the Ryman League.
The Ryman, under its original name the Isthmian League, was founded in 1905, but now it is threatened with something approaching oblivion before it celebrates its centenary.
Last month, without consultation with the Ryman, the Nationwide Conference announced that, from the 2002-03 season, only the Dr Martens (Southern) and the UniBond (Northern Premier) Leagues will be recognised as feeder leagues to the Conference.
According to the Conference, the switch from three to two feeder leagues is the only way to increase promotion places from three to four. The south-east based Ryman, described as "a parochial league" by Ken Marsden, the chairman of the UniBond, faces losing big clubs like Sutton United, Aldershot Town and St Albans City to the Dr Martens.
The new Conference season kicks off tomorrow. The highlight of the opening-day programme is relegated Chester City's visit to Rushden & Diamonds, who broke the non-League transfer record this summer by paying £180,000 for the Morecambe striker Justin Jackson.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments