A statement from Dean Hoyle to Huddersfield Town supporters
- Dean Hoyle issues a statement
- Dean stepping away from daily operations at Town
- Hoyle to look for a new owner to take Club forward
As he steps away from the day-to-day operations of Huddersfield Town, Dean Hoyle has issued the following statement to supporters:
When I got the call from Phil Hodgkinson around this time last year, I had no option but to reluctantly step in and provide urgent financial support to the Club whilst being – as I remain – the minority shareholder. This I have provided and more.
I genuinely thought, after a break of two years after my illness, I could return with the same energy and enthusiasm as when I first became chairman in 2008. It has become clear to me over the last 12 months that this is not the case. I’ve tried my best to front it up to both staff at the Club and supporters, but now the time has arrived where I must listen to medical advice and take a total step back; my health comes first and foremost.
Not connected to my decision to step away, I acknowledge supporters’ feelings. Certainly not all, but many, want change with new energy and direction at the top. Every successful business needs this in abundance. I totally understand these feelings and, whilst it hurts, I get it.
Since the first day I walked into the Club I have given everything to the cause. Again, over the last 12 months I really have tried my best, but my best isn’t always good enough. Hand on heart, I’ve given it my all. At no point in my 14 years have I ever put my personal financial interests ahead of the best interests of the Club.
We’ve had many successes over the last 14 years, and these are balanced with mistakes. Football is a challenging industry where mistakes are plentiful and I accept responsibility for mine, and I’m sorry.
I have asked Dave Baldwin to run the football club and take up the position of Managing Director. He has been tasked to look at all options to pass the baton of our Club to someone who can genuinely take it forward.
I would like to say a big thank you to every member of staff, who really do go beyond the call of duty and live and breathe Huddersfield Town. We’ve had some laughs and tears along the way. You are amazing people who make a big difference.
To the supporters, you made my family and I feel so welcome. When the days were tough, you helped me push harder. I wanted what was best for you and to bring smiles to faces. The Club is nothing without genuine supporters who follow through thick and thin; you are the bedrock of this club. The Club needs your energy more than ever just now - with two home games approaching, all your energy needs to be directed positively towards the team, to help them, and help the Club move up the table.
Finally, over my tenure I’ve always been honest with everyone and told everyone how things are rather than sometimes what they want to hear. I suppose the same now applies to myself.
Up The Town!
Dean
