Waveney FC and Lowestoft Town FC wish to share an important update with our members, parents, supporters, coaches, and players regarding youth football provision and the future pathway for young people in our area.
Over the past year, the Lowestoft youth and academy programme has faced a number of challenges. These challenges have understandably created uncertainty and concern among parents and players, and we fully acknowledge that communication during this period has not always been as clear or timely as it should have been. For that, we offer our sincere apologies.
Rather than allowing uncertainty to continue — or allowing young players to be affected by circumstances beyond their control — both clubs have chosen to work together constructively. This partnership represents two clubs putting their heads together to ensure football in our area remains stable, well-led, player-focused, and sustainable for the future.
What This Partnership Delivers
• Youth football led and managed by Waveney FC, with safeguarding, coaching support, administration, and player welfare at its core
• An Elite senior men’s and women’s Access Sports College football pathway provided by Lowestoft Town FC
• Clear, transparent opportunities for progression between youth and senior football
Waveney FC will continue to operate and develop adult football as part of its player pathway. Players will have options to progress into adult football within Waveney FC.
Those seeking further progression opportunities will have clear pathways into Elite senior men’s and women’s teams, as well as the Access Sports College football programme, through the partnership with Lowestoft Town FC.
Transition Timeline and Next Steps
• Lowestoft Town Academy teams will see out their remaining fixtures this season, with match venues currently being discussed and confirmed where required.
• Academy training has already moved to Crown Meadow, with additional training and match venues also under discussion to ensure continuity and appropriate facilities.
• Both clubs will now begin working jointly on the implementation of this agreement, focusing on structures, communication, and arrangements in readiness for the start of the next season.
Further updates will be shared as venues are confirmed and planning progresses.
Waveney FC & Lowestoft Town FC
Working Together to Create Stability and a Sustainable Future for Young Players
Patience, Progress, and a Long-Term Vision
We fully appreciate that this partnership will take time to settle and that not everything will be perfect from the outset. Change can be challenging, especially when people care deeply about their clubs and their children’s futures.
We also recognise that not everyone will immediately feel comfortable with these changes. Different views are respected, and we remain committed to listening, engaging, and communicating openly.
We will not rush decisions simply because they feel right at the time. Every step taken will be carefully considered to ensure it genuinely makes sense for the future and delivers long-term benefits to both clubs and, most importantly, the players.
What This Means for Parents and Players
We want to be clear:
• This is not a takeover
• This is not a merger
• This is not a rebrand
Both clubs remain fully independent, proud of their identities, and committed to the local football community. What has changed is a renewed commitment to better communication, stronger planning, clearer pathways, and player-first decision-making.
Volunteers and Community
Volunteers are the lifeblood of any well-run organisation, and both clubs would not exist without the time, commitment, and passion of those who give their support freely. As this partnership develops, we warmly welcome anyone who would like to be involved.
Moving Forward Together
This partnership reflects leadership during a challenging period and a collective belief that young players deserve stability, opportunity, and a future in which they can believe.
By working together and keeping players at the center of our decision-making, both clubs are confident this approach provides the strongest possible foundation for the future.
Issued jointly by Waveney Football Club & Lowestoft Town Football Club