The head coach joined the National League team in 2022 and has produced some fine results, including taking them to the final in 2023.
Ridley understood the intention was for Southern to disband next season and the region to be represented by a club team in the National League in preparation for the entire league going club-based — under New Zealand Football league changes — from 2027.
But the criteria for league entry and how southern clubs would earn their place at this stage were unclear.
Looking back at the 2025 season, Ridley believed Southern’s efforts were testament to what "belief, hard work and unity can achieve".
"As a regional side, the barriers are endless — limited resources, a non-existent budget and far less time together than the major clubs in the country," Ridley said.
"On paper, we shouldn’t be as competitive as we are. But year after year, the group we have managed to put together for each campaign has proven otherwise.
"Despite every challenge, we’ve built a squad that plays with identity, resilience and pride."
Southern finished fifth with a record of four wins, one draw and four losses, to be the top regional team and the top South Island side.
Ahead of them were defending champions Auckland United — who won the Kate Sheppard Cup — Eastern Suburbs (Kate Sheppard Cup semifinalists), Wellington United (Central League champions) and West Coast Rangers (Northern League champions).
"To be sitting fifth in the country for 2025 is no small achievement.
"Every member of this team, players and staff, are incredibly proud of what we’ve created. Southern continues to punch above its weight, and this season is another reminder that heart, culture, and commitment can close any gap.
"It has been an absolute pleasure to coach.
"Now we will all get four-five days back a week — trust me, we won’t know what to do with ourselves."
Auckland United will host Eastern Suburbs in the final at Keith Hay Park on Saturday.
