NEW Solihull Moors chairman Darryl Eales has set out his vision for the club, stating: “Our aim is to build a community-based club – and reach the Football League.”
The businessman, who grew up in Hall Green, says he wants to push the Moors further up the ladder after his takeover of the club was confirmed last week.
But he also wants to build on the work undertaken by the previous owners in ensuring the Moors has a truly inclusive feel.
Eales who enjoyed considerable success in private equity, was formerly the owner of Oxford United before selling his interest earlier this year.
He has now turned his attention to his home-town club and revealed his plans this week.
Eales said: “It is a privilege to be chairman of the club – something I would never have imagined when I watched Moor Green as a youngster.
“The club has been on an amazing adventure – to be one tier below the Football League is truly remarkable.
“Our starting point is football is a wonderful game through which we can all build lifelong friendships – and so many have already contributed to building such a family and community-based club.
“The ultimate measure will be results. That’s how it should be. But, for us, success will be judged on a much broader canvas.
“Making a difference to communities and helping scope a better future for all are essential ingredients.
“Football clubs are in a unique position to deliver this.
“This club has huge potential – both on and off the pitch.
“Our chief executive, Calvin Barnett and I, hope to create a culture and environment where Moors can achieve Football League status.”
Moors have started the National League season brightly, despite suffering two defeats in their last two outings to Leyton Orient and Hartlepool United respectively.
Under new boss Tim Flowers, the momentum from last season’s escape from relegation has carried over to the new campaign.
Eales said the club will invest, both in infrastructure and people, as he plots a course upwards.
He said: “Four years at Oxford have underpinned my belief that realising potential relies upon unity across all areas of the club.
“Football is a game of opinions, often strongly held, but it is essential in the context of Solihull Moors that everyone connected with the club is focused, at all times, on acting only in the best interests of the club.
“It’s underpinned by a mentality which starts with: ‘We win together, we lose together’.
“It puts people before plans. We will ensure the best people are the right roles, operating as a united team in an environment where everyone can be the best they can be.
“Our foundations will be robust and secure. Success can only be built patiently and diligently.
“We will invest in the first-team squad with the ultimate ambition of achieving Football League status.
“We also aim to create centres of excellence across all areas of the club. Our mens, women, youth and disability teams and community engagement.
“We will find the right long-term stadium solution so we can develop a full stadium footprint and our infrastructure.
“But we will do so sustainably and never jeopardise or mortgage its future.”
Moors are on the road to Dover Athletic on Saturday.
