The Story Behind Wigginton Grasshoppers FC's New Specsavers Kit

For many towns and villages, a local football club is the heart of the community. It is where people gather, make friends, and pass on traditions to the next generation. Wigginton Grasshoppers FC in North Yorkshire is no exception. The club brings people together every weekend, offering shared history, local pride and a strong sense of belonging. From young players dreaming big to lifelong supporters in the stands, everyone is part of the same journey. This is what makes grassroots football so powerful. It is built on people, passion and community spirit.

A Fresh New Kit With A Special Meaning

The team at Wigginton Grasshoppers FC now has a brand new kit thanks to sponsorship from a local opticians team. But this is more than just a smart new strip. The kit carries a heartfelt tribute to a club legend whose legacy continues to inspire every player. The donation behind the kit has allowed the Grasshoppers to honour a man who meant so much to the club.

First team manager and senior secretary Graham Ireton shared how much this support means. He said,

"On behalf of the team, we're thrilled to have the support of York Specsavers' Home Visits Team. Their generous donation has enabled us to provide our team with a fresh new kit, which holds special significance as we've paid tribute to our beloved founder and president, John Jeffery, so he’ll be supporting them at every match."

Honouring A Founder’s Dedication

The new shirts include a subtle but deeply meaningful tribute to the late founder and club president, John Jeffery. John was far more than a figurehead. He was the driving force behind Wigginton Grasshoppers FC, dedicating years of passion and hard work to building the club into what it is today. His passing earlier this year was a huge loss for everyone connected to the team.

To honour him, the players now wear a small tribute under the collars of their shirts. It is a quiet reminder of the man who shaped the club from the ground up. Graham Ireton explained, "To honour his memory following his passing earlier this year, we have included a tribute under the collars, which marks John’s dedication to both the club and local football in general." His influence lives on every time the players step onto the pitch.

How A Local Business Stepped Up

The funding for the new kit came from the York Specsavers Home Visits team, who donated £700 to cover the full cost. This was not a corporate tick box gesture but a genuine act of support from a local business that cares about its community. Grassroots football clubs often operate on extremely limited budgets, so sponsorship like this makes a huge difference.

Specsavers' contribution is part of their ongoing commitment to community projects. It shows they recognise their role not just as a business, but as a positive force within the area they serve. Their support has strengthened the bond between the club and the community, helping ensure that local football continues to thrive.