Stockport County

Stockport County Football Club, often simply referred to as 'County', is a professional football club based in Stockport, Greater Manchester, England. The club was founded in 1883 as Heaton Norris Rovers, later changing its name to Stockport County in 1890 to reflect its status as the County Borough of Stockport's leading team. The club's home ground is Edgeley Park, located in the heart of Stockport, where they have been based since 1902.

Stockport County is known for its blue and white strip, and its mascot, a cat named 'Vernon', named after a long-term sponsor of the club. The club's nickname, 'The Hatters', is a nod to Stockport's historical association with the hat-making industry.

The club has a rich history in English football, having spent time in all four tiers of the English Football League. Their most successful period came in the late 1990s, where they spent five seasons in the First Division, which is now known as the Championship. During this period, they reached the League Cup semi-finals in the 1996-97 season, their best ever performance in a major competition.

However, the 21st century has been a period of struggle for Stockport County. Financial difficulties led to administration in 2009 and subsequent relegations saw the club drop out of the Football League in 2011, for the first time in 106 years. The club then spent several years in the National League, the fifth tier of English football, before being relegated to the National League North, the sixth tier, in 2013.

Despite these challenges, Stockport County has remained a well-supported club, with a loyal and passionate fanbase. In 2020, the club was taken over by Mark Stott, a local businessman, who has invested significantly in the club, with the aim of returning it to the Football League. In the 2020-21 season, the club won the National League North, securing promotion to the National League.

Throughout its history, Stockport County has been known for its commitment to developing young talent. The club has a successful youth academy, which has produced a number of players who have gone on to have successful careers in the higher echelons of English football.

Despite its recent struggles, Stockport County remains a club with a proud history and a bright future. Its loyal fanbase, ambitious ownership, and commitment to youth development mean that it remains an important part of the fabric of English football.