Rye Town FC’s match away to Sedlescombe Rangers was abandoned after Rye’s Sam Hesmer suffered a broken leg on Saturday, November 23. The bad break, affecting both his tibia and fibula, leaves the player unable to work for three months. The club has launched a fundraising appeal.
A spokesperson for the club said: “He is a family man and with Christmas on the horizon it will be a tough time for them so Rye Town FC have set up a Go Fund Me page to try and support him, his partner and two young children through this difficult time. If you are able to donate anything big or small we would be very grateful. This will contribute towards his loss of earnings and help towards his mortgage and bills during his recovery period. Sam and his family are amazed and grateful for the generosity of those who have supported them.”
Sam is one of Rye Town’s top scorers, with five goals so far this season.
The club enjoys strong community support, with sponsorships from local businesses. They field a robust squad and participate in multiple league and cup competitions. The club shares a commitment to fostering local football talent and community engagement.
Rye Town play in the traditional Rye colours of red and black. The club are currently in second place in the Premier Division of the East Sussex Football League.
Sam wanted to let people know how moved he and his family have been with everyone’s kindness. “My family are extremely grateful for the overwhelming support, the generosity of everyone associated with Rye Town as well as the local football community has been nothing short of incredible. The fundraising has already exceeded anything I could have imagined and a special mention to anyone who has helped out with walking my dog, on top of their own busy lives, I can’t thank them enough.
The team’s next match is this Saturday December 7 when they take on Bexhill at Rye Rugby Ground at 2pm.
Rye Town’s Go Fund Me page for Sam can be found here.
Image Credits: Rye Town FC , Sam Hesmer .