‘Humbling’ community spirit draws praise from Crusaders’ Stephen Baxter

Irish League football’s suspension stands extended to April 30 and the future of the campaign remains uncertain.

Baxter views the current situation as an opportunity to “take a step back” from the traditional focus on football’s highs and lows and reflect on the bigger picture.

“The decision to extend the suspension was not a surprise,” said Baxter. “But we know we will get back to football at some stage and, until that time, it is important to continue to look out for each other.

“Everything is up in the air and it can prove unsettling but, as it has been stressed time and time again, it is literally a matter of life and death.

“That is the enormity of the situation.

“It has felt like a lot longer, I’m sure for everyone, so it’s a case of following the rules and keeping in touch as often as we can.

“Over Mother’s Day, with the restaurant closed at Seaview due to the lockdown, it was wonderful to be able to get out and deliver 200 free meals around the local community.

“That was an experience I can only describe as humbling and it is great to see people rally around together at times like this and pull together in support.

“That aspect of this all has left me encouraged.

“Over the years, Crusaders Football Club has been a community within a community and Seaview can form something of a hub for the residents.

“We have hosted various functions and it has been difficult to then close, if only for this short period.

“I can appreciate there is a lot of anxiety overall.

“But, also, I think this has maybe made people step back and emphasise that, although something like football can feel like the whole world and we love it and tend to kick every ball, it is such a small part of everything and the bigger picture is that support for each other.”