Haywards Heath Town's new chairman on what needs changing at the club

After a summer of big change at the club, Isherwood was voted in as the new chairman last week. And now he can’t wait to work with former chairman Mick Cottingham and the committee to take the club forward.

Cottingham has stepped into the vice-chairman’s role and Isherwood was full of praise for the work his predecessor has done.

He said: “I cant speak highly enough of Mick and the manner in which he has conducted himself, he is a real club man and genuinely wants the best for Haywards Heath Town football club.

“I am looking forward to us working together and implementing new strategies to drive the club forward, we need to become smarter in how we operate from a business perspective which will eventually filter down into the first team budget and the allied growth of the club and its facilities.”

And it’s the finance side of things that Isherwood sees that needs immediate attention. He said: “Financially we need to get a hold on things quickly, implement systems, define roles and accountability.

“We also need to take a look at our revenue streams and negotiate terms and deals with associates that work and are beneficial for the club.”

Isherwood took the junior section of the club forward as chairman and there are still exciting steps being taken there. He said: “My older son has been playing the last couple of years for what is currently the u14s team and in this year’s groups only had an u16s and 17s. We have subsequently added an u8, u10, u12, and a second u14 team.

“We have done really well as a youth section in a short space of time and although hindered by COVID have secured plenty of sponsorships and facilities. I would like to place on record my thanks to Mark Russ for all of the help he has offered us with this .

“Next season we will be looking to add another couple of teams including a girls team.”

The club are also about to embark on a partnership with the John Robinson Academy which will provide massive opportunities and links to academy and college scholarships.

And what will Isherwood bring to the role of chairman? “I am very direct , honest , organised, driven and I will always do what I feel is right for the club.”