Exeter City are delighted to announce that summer signing Jay Bird will wear the prestigious number 31 shirt for the 2024/25 season.
The 1931 Fund was started in 2009 after City won promotion to League One. Since then, fans paying £19 each month into the Fund have invested in their club to part-fund every player who's worn the famous Number 31 shirt.
The fund has contributed £190,000 to the club so far, and this season they will reach the monumental £200,000 mark.
The 1931 Fund, named after Exeter City's famous FA Cup run of that year, is led by group organiser Alan Crockford, said:
"Our financial support to help fund this addition to Gary's squad is a tiny fraction of what's needed to make City competitive. But our members are determined to make a regular contribution, especially those of us who can't get to the Park as often as we'd like.
"We all know that the only way for Exeter City's model to work is through us all sticking together, supporting each other and striving to play our part as true supporters.
"As well as the financial contribution, we hope our Number 31 is a really positive reminder to our fellow fans of why Exeter City is different, special and, yes, a little more in need of our extra support in all sorts of ways.
"It's a privilege to play our small part alongside so many brilliant and passionate people."
Jay Bird joins teammates Vincent Harper, who wore the 31-shirt last season and Pierce Sweeney who wore the shirt when he joined the club back in 2016, part-funding his first professional contract.
Speaking about being chosen to wear the 31 shirt, Jay Bird added:
“It’s a great example of the special bond between the fans and the club that they can contribute to this special shirt.
“I’ve spoken to Pierce Sweeney and Vinnie Harper about it as they have previously worn the shirt, so it’s great to follow in their footsteps and I’m really excited for the new season.”
Exeter City manager Gary Caldwell added: “Last year Vincent Harper came in as an unknown non-league player, and really took on what it meant to wear the shirt and progressed during the season.
“Jay is another player we see a big future for and it’s the perfect starting point to his Exeter City career, to wear this prestigious shirt that represents the football club.
The following players have been sponsored by the 1931 Fund:
- James Norwood
- Callum McNish
- Elliott Chamberlain
- Graham Cummins
- Joel Grant
- Pierce Sweeney
- Jack Sparkes
- Noah Smerdon
- Jordan Dyer
- Josh Coley
- Vincent Harper
- Jay Bird
The 1931 Fund is always looking for new members able to pay £19 each month. Please email 1931fund@gmail.com for details.