The local Member of Parliament, Sir Oliver Dowden recently visited Boreham Wood FC at Meadow Park to show his support for the National League’s growing 3UP campaign, which calls for a third promotion place into the EFL League Two.
During the visit, Sir Oliver met with Boreham Wood FC’s Chairman, the indefatigable, Danny Hunter, as well as the Chairman of the National League, Jack Pearce MBE, a long-time advocate for the campaign. The discussions focused on the positive impact that the 3 Up initiative would have on the clubs and players who work tirelessly to secure promotion, but also touched on broader issues within the football landscape, notably the Football Governance Bill.
Manager Luke Garrard, his staff, and players then enjoyed a quick chat with Sir Oliver on the training pitch, before embarking on a whistle-stop tour of the ever-improving facility.
Sir Oliver said: “This initiative, backed by all 72 National League clubs, is a crucial step towards ensuring fairness and meritocracy in the English football pyramid. The current system, which allows only two promotion places, creates a significant bottleneck for ambitious clubs striving to progress.”
The National League has demonstrated its financial stability and alignment with the EFL’s regulatory framework, making this the right time to enact this change. After discussing this in depth with officials at Boreham Wood FC, it is clear that the demand for change is strong.
I have therefore urged the EFL Board to prioritise this issue and to schedule a vote on three promotions at the earliest opportunity.”
Sir Oliver added: “Clubs like Boreham Wood are the heartbeat of their communities and play a vital role both on and off the pitch. It’s clear from fans, players and clubs alike that the current system of only two promotion spots into the EFL is outdated and unfair.”
Following Truro City’s recent victory of the National League South title, Boreham Wood FC will now compete for promotion to the EFL League Two in the play-off rounds. They will face Torquay United away in the Play Off Semi Final on Saturday 3 May at 15:00pm.
For more information on the 3UP campaign and to get involved, visit www.thenationalleague.org.uk or follow @TheVanaramaNL on social media.
