In a statement, released on Friday morning, the Club has confirmed the launch of the Walsall FC Former Players' Association.Once a Saddler, always a Saddler is the mantra as all at the club fully believe in and this new group will provide a great platform to remain in touch with any player who has represented Walsall FC and also provide a sense of community and belonging.
The Former Players Association will be chaired by our former striker Matty Fryatt who scored 30 goals in 78 matches for the Saddlers between 2003 and 2006.
Walsall legends Jimmy Walker, Richard O’Kelly and Mick Kearns will also act as ambassadors.
Any player who has represented the Saddlers will be welcome to become a member of the community, including all players from both first team and academy who have left the club this season.
There will be a number of events throughout the year where members will be able to get together.
They will also be able to attend matches meaning there will be one or two Saddlers legends in attendance at every home game.
CEO Ben Sadler is delighted to see the formation of the Former Players Association, he said: "I’m thrilled to see the launch of our Former Players Association.
"We pride ourselves on being a community club, and anyone who has represented us will always remain part of that community.
"It’s something we’ve been keen to get up and running for some time, and I’m looking forward to seeing former players reconnect with former teammates and fans alike on matchdays and at various events we have planned."
Former forward Fryatt is honoured to be named as the Chair and is looking forward to reconnecting with the club and former players, he added: "I’m more than privileged to be asked and considered for such a position.
"I’m really looking forward to the role and bringing former players back, their experiences of what it was liked when they played and joining in with what’s going on at the club at the minute, so it’s a really good initiative.
"I’m really looking forward to the role and bringing former players back, their experiences of what it was liked when they played and joining in with what’s going on at the club at the minute, so it’s a really good initiative.
"It’s something that might start the ball rolling elsewhere, not just at Walsall but at other clubs because it’s important to remember players that have played before, keep everyone involved and together as one.
"The fans as well seeing former players and their experience in what’s happening now in the present, still being connected with the first team and what’s going around the club so for Walsall to embrace that, welcome former players back and try to pass on a good message is fantastic.
"Also for the players as well, an initiative likes that gets you involved, you’re going to watch the game, passing on your experiences and I think it’s vital really. It’s something I think has long been needed but will encourage all that and be well received by all."