South Shields Football Club has undergone a significant change in ownership, with the ORY LLP Investment group becoming the majority shareholders. The deal, initially agreed upon earlier this year between the investment group and the club’s chairman, Geoff Thompson, received official approval from both the National League and the Football Association last month.

Jason Ye, a New York-based capital markets lawyer who leads the investment group, emphasized the group’s commitment to managing the National League North club responsibly. The consortium, which includes members from the United States, Hong Kong, China, and Singapore, has drawn questions about its interest in a non-league English club. Ye attributed the decision to invest in South Shields to the strong leadership demonstrated by Thompson during his 11 years as chairman, as well as the club’s infrastructure, players, management, and passionate local fan base.

“People have asked me ‘why South Shields?’ I have always said why not? There are so many things to like about this club and the local community and then you have Geoff. He is a great leader, a great person and when you’re looking for a business partner, you always start off with the right person,” Ye said. He also highlighted the club’s atmosphere and fan enthusiasm, stating that their passion inspires the group to “do it right.”

In the past week, a delegation from South Shields—including Ye, Geoff Thompson, and newly appointed manager Mike Williamson—traveled to China and Singapore. During their visit, they met with representatives from the Chinese Football Association, local football academies, and potential commercial partners as part of efforts to build international relationships and explore opportunities for the club.

On the football side, Williamson has begun shaping his coaching staff following his appointment last weekend. He introduced Stephen Harrison, a former academy coach for Newcastle United and Middlesbrough, as his new assistant manager. Additionally, Mariners academy coach Jack Sadler has been promoted to first-team coach. A club statement expressed enthusiasm about the appointments, noting Harrison’s extensive experience and familiarity with the modern game, which is expected to be beneficial as the club looks to strengthen its squad.

These developments mark a new chapter for South Shields as they prepare to compete in the National League North under fresh ownership and management.