Kole Hall Thanks Club Fans For Support
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Kole Hall, the Bermuda forward, said he is determined to repay the generosity of Chester fans who dug deep into their pockets to pay for his knee surgery.
Hall, who underwent surgery for a meniscus injury last month, hopes to return to competitive action for the Vanarama National League North side early next year.
With injured non-league players often having to pay for their own operations, Hall was facing a hefty bill until fans group Cestrians 1885 set up a fundraiser to help meet the costs, raising more than £3,000 [$3,700].
Speaking to the club’s official podcast, the Seals Podcast, Hall said: “All I can say is, ‘Wow’. I’m so grateful.
“I’d have had to cover the costs of the surgery, so I’m thankful to every person who contributed. It makes me feel loved and special.
“It shows that Chester is a big community, and everyone sticks together. You’ve made me feel like one of your own.
“It enables me to get back to doing what I love. I want to give my all for the shirt and the club. I look forward to coming back in the next few months.”
Hall made seven appearances this season, scoring one goal before learning he needed surgery, and said he is champing at the bit to return to full fitness and help the team.
“I’m feeling good, and the surgery went well,” he said. “I’m glad it’s over because now I have something to look forward to, which is my recovery and getting back on the pitch in the best condition possible.
“Every footballer just wants to play, so when you’re injured or not in the team, you feel it most.
“My goal tally hasn’t been up there, but I feel like, as a player, I’ve improved and helped the team.
“The goals will come; I know they will. As a striker, you want to score as many goals as possible.”
Chester have won their last four matches and are eighth in the table, one spot outside the play-offs.
“I’m hungry now,” Hall added. “I’m just sitting there while everyone else is playing. I can’t wait to give it my all and help the boys.
“We’re a very talented group, and we have the potential. It’s great to see the wins coming.”
Hall is not the only Bermuda national team player to have had supporters contribute to surgery costs this season.
Midfielder Willie Clemons underwent knee surgery in August after his club, Braintree Town, set up a GoFundPage to help raise money to pay for his operation.
