Ex-Maidstone United manager Jay Saunders has released a message for supporters after the end of his highly successful tenure at the Vanarama National League club was announced on Tuesday afternoon.
The statement reads:
For all the fans, the players, the supporters, and the dreamers;
It is with a heavy heart that I am announcing my time at Maidstone United has come to an end.
From supporting the club as a child, to proudly wearing the shirt on the pitch; managing the stones was a dream I never thought would come true.
I’ve been through every emotion possible with this club, and I’m thankful for all the opportunities and memories; I’ll never forget any of them.
I want to sincerely thank all the players that have given everything for me on the pitch and all the back room staff who worked tirelessly alongside me.
I also want to say a very special thank you to the supporters who have stood in my corner until the very end; the words of support I’ve received since the announcement yesterday have been overwhelming, and I will be forever grateful for that.
Coming from a supporter who got to play for, and manage his team, I know exactly how you feel about the club, and share your passion.
I’m disappointed I couldn’t fulfill my dream of taking the team back to the football league, something we all thought was possible and achievable, but the opportunity to have played a part in this chapter of the club’s history has been privilege and honor.
For now – it’s onto the next challenge, wherever that may be.
Thank you again for everything.
UP THE STONES.
Forever a fan,
Jay x