Community is the ‘buzz word’ right now, and appropriately so - here’s to hoping that all our lives return to normality soon, but the spirit of generosity, patience and community remains.

- Martyn Clements

Dear Parents, Guardians and Supporters,

This is not our usual club practice to circulate a ‘formal’ letter of this nature, but then these are not normal times. We’d much rather be having conversations with you all on match days or training or our annual awards day – but alas, none of that is possible.

You are probably already aware that all grassroots football for the remainder of season 2019/20 has been cancelled by the Oxfordshire FA and WDYFL, following the advice provided by the UK Government. As disappointing as this is for everyone, that action was necessary to reduce the risk to all of us and beyond. This leaves plenty of unfinished business both on and off the pitch, which is why I felt it necessary to explain a few things.

• Until further notice, there will be no training or use of the pitches at Greystones.
• There is a slim possibility of 2019/20 cup competitions that were at semi-final stages being completed ahead of next pre-season. This will be reviewed later.
• Soccer School, usually scheduled April to July, will be postponed and reviewed later.
• Awards Day, usually scheduled in June, is cancelled. We may propose a pre-season get together for all age groups at pre-season, but this will be confirmed later.

Season 2020/21

• OFA and WDYFL will confirm as early as they can when football can return.
• Player registration for Swifts will be fully online, including payments. Details to follow.
• All being well, Swifts will have teams playing across six age groups. Seven, if we can get another U7 up and running in time.

Whilst the on-pitch activity has stopped, the club committee remain active in planning for next season by ensuring our finances are healthy, our pitches are maintained, and our coaches and players are supported. We also continue to discuss to discuss various projects with the OFA, Town Council and other local associations.

Finally, a big thank you to all the players, coaches, committee members, parents, guardians and other supporters for all your efforts during this shorter than usual season. The club continues to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for our children to play football at the heart of the community. Community is the ‘buzz word’ right now, and appropriately so - here’s to hoping that all our lives return to normality soon, but the spirit of generosity, patience and community remains.

Stay safe and best wishes,

Martyn Clements, Chairman