Following yesterday’s shock announcement of Chris Hardy’s resignation, with Chris’ permission we share his resignation letter.
We share here, his reasons, how difficult a decision it was to make, his feelings throughout his tenure and his thanks to everyone concerned.
Like Chris says… “It was a blast” and what a ride we all had! Thank you for the memories Chris. See you Heritage Park soon.
Steve Coulthard
BAFC Chairman and Board of Directors
“All, it is with a heavy heart that I submit my letter of resignation with immediate effect.
Back in Oct 2021 for a brief period I did question the enormity of the task I had taken on, fast forward, a successful relegation battle, followed by a solid consolidation season and then season 2023/24 which saw us crowned champions in the most emphatic way, from a style of play to unprecedented number of goals being scored.
This season to date has brought with it several challenges which included a complete rebuilding exercise in the summer that unfortunately saw the side struggle for performances and results at the start of the season, we have now positioned the team whereas we are no longer looking down the table and instead are only a few wins off being in the playoff mix.
Which then brings us to this moment, and unfortunately, I need to be honest with myself and acknowledge that my tank is empty. This has never been an issue in all my time at the football club but has become very apparent to me personally over recent weeks and months, contributing factors include a heavy work schedule in the business I run and how this is starting to impact me personally with the added pressures of being in position at the club.
I feel that the role needs 100% as you all would expect, and as I have delivered in my time at the club, but the time has come for me step away and see a new person at the helm to hopefully carry on the excellent progress that has been already been achieved and hopefully continue this trend to keep the club moving forward.
I’ve happy to say that I’ve got many great memories to take with me from my time in charge at Bishop Auckland FC and for that I’m truly grateful.
I’d like to go on record and thank everyone who has supported me during my tenure at the Club, there are too many to mention but the guys that I work with during the day to day, include,
- Steve – We have walked every step together, you should be proud of your efforts, I’ll miss our Sunday morning chats
- Catherine – Mrs Bishop Auckland, your level of support is off the scale, you are a real asset to the club
- Richard – Your support has been consistent throughout the whole of my time at the club
- Terry – keep up the good work on that carpet of yours
- Dave – The work you do with the supporter’s club is fanatic which continues to support the first team, and of course the extended team that look after the pitch
- Kev – Always wearing your Bishop Auckland t-Shirt and supporting where you can
There really are too many people to mention but be assured without all this support it would make the manager’s job near impossible, so keep up the great work and support the new manager as you have support myself over the last 3 years as without you guys there is no football club.
It’s been a blast I’ll be watching out for results on matchday to see the continued development and progression of Bishop Auckland FC.
Chris Hardy”