Darren Court Appointed as Southport FC's Commercial Manager

Southport Football Club are today delighted to confirm the appointment of Darren Court as the club’s full-time Commercial Manager. In addition to being a Southport native and SFC fan, Darren brings a wealth of experience across the commercial sector and has achieved remarkable success in previous roles at various clubs, including AFC Fylde, Preston North End FC, and Port Vale FC.

During his time at AFC Fylde, Darren demonstrated his prowess by securing the largest external shirt sponsorship deal in the club’s history for the 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons. Additionally, he generated record levels of commercial revenue for multiple non-league football clubs amid the challenging circumstances posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

At Preston North End FC, Darren’s success has been recognised by former PNEFC Chairman Maurice Lindsay describing him as “the best Commercial Manager of a professional sports club I have ever had the pleasure of working with”. Moreover, Darren’s impressive credentials are further bolstered by his role as the Chairman of Greenloons Formby JFC, a grassroots football club he developed from inception with just eight children to now boasting over 150 players across eight age groups.

Darren will replace Mike Black, who served as the club’s Head of Commercial throughout the 2023/24 season. Mike has taken the decision to retire from active duties at the conclusion of the current playing season however will remain with the club in a Directorship capacity. Mike’s contributions were instrumental in supporting the club during the transitionary period following Big Help Group’s acquisition of Southport Football Club. The club extends its heartfelt gratitude to Mike and wishes him all the best, and we look forward to seeing him at the Big Help Stadium, cheering on the lads throughout the upcoming season.