In his Chairman’s Corner message for the Consecration, Nicholas A. Ball, Provincial Grand Master, welcomed members and visitors to Plainmoor for the beginning of Football Lodge South West No. 10063.

Part of a growing football family

He placed the new Lodge within a growing family of football Lodges. Football Lodge No. 9921 from Hampshire and the Isle of Wight attended as sponsor Lodge, alongside representatives from Football Lodge of Sussex No. 9982. Football Lodge of Buckinghamshire No. 10067 had been consecrated four days earlier.

Strength at kick-off

The message recorded the strength of the new Lodge at kick-off: 31 founders, 20 applications from prospective joining members and three candidates in the pipeline. These were a snapshot of the position on Consecration day, not current figures.

Experience and new talent

Using the language of a new football season, the Provincial Grand Master set out an ambition for a Lodge that would establish itself, grow and give newer members confidence to become involved. He stressed the need to balance experience with new talent and to create something enjoyable and affordable for its supporters.

Service in the community

Service and charity were also part of that founding vision. The new Lodge was encouraged to support both Freemasonry and football within the local community.

The message captured the tone of the occasion: anticipation, high expectations and a clear understanding that Consecration was only the opening fixture.