FC Isle of Man a 'good product' for the Island, says chairman

David Pope took the helm at the club earlier this summer

FC Isle of Man's new chairman believes the club remains a 'good product' for the Island as a whole.

David Pope took the helm at 'The Ravens' earlier this summer as part of multiple personnel changes ahead of the 2026/27 NWCFL Premier Division season.

One of the key challenges facing the club remains finances - it's estimated that costs to run it during the season is at around £400,000 whilst each home league game costs approximately £7,500.

Whilst acknowledging those realities on Manx Radio's Mannin Line today (16 July), Mr Pope also praised the efforts of FC Isle of Man players, fans and staff for keeping the club running:

Along with Mr Pope's appointment, other changes at the Manx side following the 2025/26 campaign include Lee Dixon being named First Team Manager whilst Russ Kent becomes the newly-assigned Chief Executive.

Under Caretaker Manager, Rick Holden, FC Isle of Man managed to successfully avoid relegation from the NWCFL Premier Division last season - Mr Kent was asked on today's programme what the on-the-pitch expectations are going forward:

Separately, FC Isle of Man's pre-season preparations begin this weekend with the 2026 Summer Festival of Football at the Ballacloan Stadium in Ramsey tomorrow (17 July) and Sunday (19 July).

The event will see FC Isle of Man joined by EFL League Two side, Shrewsbury Town; National League North outfit, Radcliffe FC and Northern Premier League club, Bury for a series of fixtures.

In Friday's opening matches, Shrewsbury Town take on Radcliffe at 3pm before FC Isle of Man face Bury at 7.30pm.