Sport
L’Equipe FC folds after over 10 years in the MGBSFL
L’Equipe – last season’s MGBSFL Division Two champions – have withdrawn from the league.
December 4, 2017 15:38
L’Equipe – last season’s MGBSFL Division Two champions – have withdrawn from the league.
December 4, 2017 15:38The club released a statement confirming the decision was made "with regret, halfway through its 11th season".
Managed by Nick Stern, L'Equipe were crowned second division champions in May, but they have struggled to field a team on several occasions this season, including yesterday's scheduled match against Oakwood B.
The club statement read: "It has become increasingly difficult week on week to field a team, due to a combination of factors, including injuries and general life commitments from many in what is now an ageing squad.
"It is a sad day for the club but we will all look back on some superb memories, through the good times and the bad. From a team of whippersnappers fresh out of university in 2006 to a team of balding, fattened, ankle/knee support wearing fathers, we've really come a long way. Of course, winning our first (and only) piece of silverware last season - the Division Two league title - will always be remembered.
"The club gives great thanks to everyone who has been involved in the club, particularly all of our six managers and those that have kept the club ticking behind the scenes.
"The club also thanks the MGBSFL committee for thanklessly keeping the league going. We really do hope that the league goes from strength to strength.
"Wishing all the team the best of luck for the rest of the season. Hopefully we will see you in the Masters.
L'Equipe are the second MGBSFL team to fold this season, following the demise of Boca Jewniors.
Manager Nick Stern commented: "I'm must say how proud I am to have managed such a brilliant club.
“We experienced the ultimate high of winning the league last year but this club was so much than trophies. Every one of the 10 years was filled with the ultimate joy of playing football with your mates and without the dedication of Mark Singer, Jules Bohm, Josh Lewis and David Prager none of this would have been possible.
“It is a heart-wrenching decision to fold this club, especially after the success of last year, but the simple truth is that when you get to over 30 you have new priorities and getting a team together each week was an almost impossible task.
“However, there are a core group that would love to continue playing so if any club in any division are interested in six or seven committed players then please let me know directly.
“I will end by once again thanking the committee of L’Equipe who has led this club for 10 and a half unbelievable years.
“North-west London/West Hendon playing fields and Old Finchelians Cricket Ground will always bleed orange!”
MGBSFL chairman David Wolff told JC Sport: “I'm very sorry that after all these years, L'Equipe have decided to call it a day.
"They have been excellent ambassadors for the league. Hopefully they will resurrect themselves in future and I hope we’ll see them again somewhere one day, maybe in the Masters."
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