Southend United are delighted to announce that JLS Building Services have extended their support of SUEPA, the Southend United Ex-Players Association, for the 2025/26 season.

Formed in January 2018, SUEPA is believed to be the largest ex-players association of its kind in the UK with over 500 members as of August 2025, including SUEPA President (and Shrimper legend) Adam Barrett. Formed originally to help fundraise to purchase a caravan tailored to former player Alan Moody’s needs, SUEPA aims at reconnecting and providing support to former players, celebrating the club’s history, occasionally organising events, helping to promote a positive image of the club and allowing fans to meet their former heroes where appropriate.

SUEPA has helped several past players in times of need, including Alan Moody, Micky Stead and James Walker and recently released a book called ‘Roots & All’ written by over 40 Southend supporters telling their incredible stories over the years supporting the Shrimpers. The revenue from the book will hopefully be used towards creating a Southend United museum, just the latest incredible initiative by SUEPA and the Shrimpers Trust.

This year, funds from JLS Building Services’ support will be used for a special project commemorating 15 of our greatest players as we rename our Executive Boxes ahead of the new season.

Andy Leeder, organiser of SUEPA, said: “I am delighted to have JLS on board as our partner again for the season ahead – last season their Managing Director Justin Slowley got fully involved in all that we do and we had a great time working together on so many projects. It was more than sponsorship – it became a friendship.”

Justin Slowley, director of JLS Building Services, commented: “When I was offered the chance to be the sponsor the Southend United Ex-Players Association last year I jumped at the chance to get involved. Since being involved with Andy and SUEPA, I am in awe with everything SUEPA does to help ex-players. The work they do behind the scenes on a daily basis is outstanding. It’s an honour to continue on this journey.”

We would like to thank JLS Building Services for their continued support of Southend United and SUEPA.