Toolstation NCEL Division One
Westella & Willerby manager Leon Sewell
Leon Sewell hopes Westella & Willerby’s decision to reject a reprieve will be beneficial for his club in the long run.
Because of the knock-on effects caused by the Evo Stik League kicking out Ilkeston FC, Westella were handed a second chance in the NCEL, despite finishing second bottom.
However, following a committee meeting on Wednesday night, Westella decided to turn the reprieve down – paving the way for Nostell Miners Welfare to return to the NCEL.
Westella, who will be playing at Hall Road Rangers’ Haworth Park, will be playing in the Humber Premier League next season.
“The decision to move back to local football was taken at the end of the season which was somewhat a difficult decision to accept,” said Sewell, who confirmed to Non League Yorkshire that he will lead the club’s revival in the HPL, nearly five years after taking the helm.
“However following the endless amount of time and money involved from the club committee, the sponsors and also the players who have stood by myself and the club for some years now, it was seen as the right decision.
“Our first season (2015/16) in NCEL was somewhat of an achievement with only four teams taking maximum points from us whilst a respectable final league position was achieved.
“Having done so well previously, other local clubs where quick to lure key players away with playing incentives in place to which we simply could not compete with.
“As a club we have taken the decision to take a step backwards with many benefitting factors put in place to ensure we don’t experience a similar season to what we did last season.
“Anyone who says running a semi professional football club is easy are not telling the truth.
“As a club we have met some wonderful people involved with NCEL clubs who have offered help, advice and guidance of which we are very grateful of.
“Personally I’ve loved battling it out against some top managers in the last two seasons.
“Thank you to our previous landlords in Barton Town Old Boys who welcomed us with open arms however a new chapter will begin as we move ground to the home of Hall Road Rangers.
“Thank you to all at NCEL for understanding our decision and hopefully we won’t be away from the NCEL for too long.
“On behalf of everyone at Westella & Willerby Football Club may we thank you all for the support given to us.”