Wray to address embargo with fellow board members (From Swindon Advertiser)

KojaktheWarg wrote:
Yes. Lets see if he can manage. its obviously not clear yet as we only became champions by accident last year not by managing the team. And we are only 4th this year so its all gone wrong since he arrived hasnt it??????? In PDC we trust...

ILOVESTFC wrote:
Sam re your article Swindon is Bessones parent club ? I thought he had left Swansea and joined us permanently on a 6 month deal. So how could he be sent back to his parent club?

London Red wrote:
Back in the summer it was stated that cash injections in the form of equity did count and that was the primary reason of the £2m injection to boost our playing budget to the rumoured £4m
.
Now it is saying it doesn't count
.
Which is it on equity?
.
Now the adver have confirmed we only have 23 player available if fit - can people please stop saying we have a massive squad of 26+ as that simply is not the case!
.
Bessone is on a perm so can't be sent back - but I think it makes he point that with only 3 loanees we don't really have the scope to sen them back
.
Yes it would free up wages but that would then create a gap elsewhere while we plug a different one
.
i.e. send Bostock back to get a forward - Miller or Navarro get injured and we suddenly are short in CM
.
If equity doesn't count I guess promotions to try boost gate receipts (despite these not really working in the past) until Jan where cash can be raised by selling Caddis is the only real viable option

the wizard wrote:
LR, If we do sell Caddis, lets hope we get his true worth, and not a knocked down figure because we are seen to be "wanting the cash". I think you understand the financial side better than most, perhaps you could clarify what the board can do, in more simplistic terms. Thinking back, does this bear any relevance to why Creepies had to sell Tubbs last season.

London Red wrote:
Back in the summer it was stated that cash injections in the form of equity did count and that was the primary reason of the £2m injection to boost our playing budget to the rumoured £4m
.
Now it is saying it doesn't count
.
Which is it on equity?
.
Now the adver have confirmed we only have 23 player available if fit - can people please stop saying we have a massive squad of 26+ as that simply is not the case!
.
Bessone is on a perm so can't be sent back - but I think it makes he point that with only 3 loanees we don't really have the scope to sen them back
.
Yes it would free up wages but that would then create a gap elsewhere while we plug a different one
.
i.e. send Bostock back to get a forward - Miller or Navarro get injured and we suddenly are short in CM
.
If equity doesn't count I guess promotions to try boost gate receipts (despite these not really working in the past) until Jan where cash can be raised by selling Caddis is the only real viable option

old town robin wrote:
I believe Besonne signed a 6 month contract, he is our player, so don't know why Sam would think we have the option to return him to Swansea. PdC has said in the past he wouldn't bring anyone in unless they were better than what he already has, don't know where he thinks he might find such a player with the required level of fitness he demands, most clubs will want to keep their decent players.

Didn't hear or read anything as to why Raffa wasn't included Saturday, was he injured? Left midfield shouldn't be a big concern with Roberts out, Luke Rooney is due back within a week or two and can be a decent asset. He is getting game time at Burton but was substituted on Saturday. If Right back is his other concern, then I could see that being an issue if Thompson is injured although I'm sure Devera would still be decent cover. The only other injury is Williams and we still have 3 or 4 to choose from up front. Benson, Adam Rooney, Collins and Storey.

Apart from the obvious if we lossed Wes to injury, don't see the need to panic with more loanees, especially if they are no better than what we already have. The embargo is not going to be lifted before the end of October, by which time one would hope Williams and Roberts will return.

From now until November we need some decent gates against the likes of Sheffield Utd, Coventry in the league and Villa in the league cup. The season ticket holders are already accounted for, so more home and visiting supporters would help the revenue considerably. We should be looking at 10k gates in the league and a sell out for the Villa game, anyone know how many tickets were allocated to them.

The marketing dept could also look at ways of increasing revenue with sponsorship or maybe some special deals for dads to bring the kids and fill up the bank for games like scunthorpe who we know will hardly bring any supporters of their own. Wonder if the people will sponsor us again this year in the FA cup, think they got a good deal out of us last year.

Another view wrote:
I for one am reassured that we have a wise head in Jeremy Wray steering this ship.

There is always a player who turns out to be more adaptable than thought, so the idea that we need two specialists in every position - after allowing for injuries - sounds over the top for a division one club.

London Red wrote:
Back in the summer it was stated that cash injections in the form of equity did count and that was the primary reason of the £2m injection to boost our playing budget to the rumoured £4m
.
Now it is saying it doesn't count
.
Which is it on equity?
.
Now the adver have confirmed we only have 23 player available if fit - can people please stop saying we have a massive squad of 26+ as that simply is not the case!
.
Bessone is on a perm so can't be sent back - but I think it makes he point that with only 3 loanees we don't really have the scope to sen them back
.
Yes it would free up wages but that would then create a gap elsewhere while we plug a different one
.
i.e. send Bostock back to get a forward - Miller or Navarro get injured and we suddenly are short in CM
.
If equity doesn't count I guess promotions to try boost gate receipts (despite these not really working in the past) until Jan where cash can be raised by selling Caddis is the only real viable option

Since 1950 wrote:
I don't think Paolo can complain too much. There can be few, if any, of his predecessors who have had such backing from a Town boardroom. He'll just have to manage the situation. All clubs go through injury and suspension problems at some stage of the season. Ours seems to have arrived alarmingly early. This is a tricky situation though if, as Mr Wray says, any more money they pump into the Club can't be seen as income. Thanks Sky! We can all look forward to ManU boys v Chelsea 3rd team on TV instead of a meaningful tie with a good chance of a giant killing. What a treat!

MITTED wrote:

London Red wrote:
Back in the summer it was stated that cash injections in the form of equity did count and that was the primary reason of the £2m injection to boost our playing budget to the rumoured £4m
.
Now it is saying it doesn't count
.
Which is it on equity?
.
Now the adver have confirmed we only have 23 player available if fit - can people please stop saying we have a massive squad of 26+ as that simply is not the case!
.
Bessone is on a perm so can't be sent back - but I think it makes he point that with only 3 loanees we don't really have the scope to sen them back
.
Yes it would free up wages but that would then create a gap elsewhere while we plug a different one
.
i.e. send Bostock back to get a forward - Miller or Navarro get injured and we suddenly are short in CM
.
If equity doesn't count I guess promotions to try boost gate receipts (despite these not really working in the past) until Jan where cash can be raised by selling Caddis is the only real viable option

LR, you are mistaken (some might say yet again!) The £2m you refer to was originally a loan to the club which had long since been absorbed. The unnamed source agreed to turn the outstanding loan into investment in the club). The only people who said it was a boost to PDC's budget were the speculative key-board warriors. Seeing as the financial fair play rules only came into force at the start of this season, whether any investment prior to that "did count" in the then playing budget is irrelavent. Please don't go off an a 2000 word essay...............

......

old town robin wrote:
I believe Besonne signed a 6 month contract, he is our player, so don't know why Sam would think we have the option to return him to Swansea. PdC has said in the past he wouldn't bring anyone in unless they were better than what he already has, don't know where he thinks he might find such a player with the required level of fitness he demands, most clubs will want to keep their decent players. Didn't hear or read anything as to why Raffa wasn't included Saturday, was he injured? Left midfield shouldn't be a big concern with Roberts out, Luke Rooney is due back within a week or two and can be a decent asset. He is getting game time at Burton but was substituted on Saturday. If Right back is his other concern, then I could see that being an issue if Thompson is injured although I'm sure Devera would still be decent cover. The only other injury is Williams and we still have 3 or 4 to choose from up front. Benson, Adam Rooney, Collins and Storey. Apart from the obvious if we lossed Wes to injury, don't see the need to panic with more loanees, especially if they are no better than what we already have. The embargo is not going to be lifted before the end of October, by which time one would hope Williams and Roberts will return. From now until November we need some decent gates against the likes of Sheffield Utd, Coventry in the league and Villa in the league cup. The season ticket holders are already accounted for, so more home and visiting supporters would help the revenue considerably. We should be looking at 10k gates in the league and a sell out for the Villa game, anyone know how many tickets were allocated to them. The marketing dept could also look at ways of increasing revenue with sponsorship or maybe some special deals for dads to bring the kids and fill up the bank for games like scunthorpe who we know will hardly bring any supporters of their own. Wonder if the people will sponsor us again this year in the FA cup, think they got a good deal out of us last year.

california andy wrote:
I think another option is to obtain additional sponsorship. I seem to remember Man City doing this with their stadium to allow them to do an end run around the rules and continue to splash the cash. May not be a realistic option for Swindon though. Come on Honda, you know you ought to do it!

grove red wrote:

old town robin wrote:
I believe Besonne signed a 6 month contract, he is our player, so don't know why Sam would think we have the option to return him to Swansea. PdC has said in the past he wouldn't bring anyone in unless they were better than what he already has, don't know where he thinks he might find such a player with the required level of fitness he demands, most clubs will want to keep their decent players. Didn't hear or read anything as to why Raffa wasn't included Saturday, was he injured? Left midfield shouldn't be a big concern with Roberts out, Luke Rooney is due back within a week or two and can be a decent asset. He is getting game time at Burton but was substituted on Saturday. If Right back is his other concern, then I could see that being an issue if Thompson is injured although I'm sure Devera would still be decent cover. The only other injury is Williams and we still have 3 or 4 to choose from up front. Benson, Adam Rooney, Collins and Storey. Apart from the obvious if we lossed Wes to injury, don't see the need to panic with more loanees, especially if they are no better than what we already have. The embargo is not going to be lifted before the end of October, by which time one would hope Williams and Roberts will return. From now until November we need some decent gates against the likes of Sheffield Utd, Coventry in the league and Villa in the league cup. The season ticket holders are already accounted for, so more home and visiting supporters would help the revenue considerably. We should be looking at 10k gates in the league and a sell out for the Villa game, anyone know how many tickets were allocated to them. The marketing dept could also look at ways of increasing revenue with sponsorship or maybe some special deals for dads to bring the kids and fill up the bank for games like scunthorpe who we know will hardly bring any supporters of their own. Wonder if the people will sponsor us again this year in the FA cup, think they got a good deal out of us last year.

me think the villa have 3270 tickets

california andy wrote:
I think another option is to obtain additional sponsorship. I seem to remember Man City doing this with their stadium to allow them to do an end run around the rules and continue to splash the cash. May not be a realistic option for Swindon though. Come on Honda, you know you ought to do it!

Oxon-Red wrote:
No expert in this but there is a good explanation of the fair play system at the following address: http://www.football- league.co.uk/page/FL ExplainedDetail/0,,1 0794~2748246,00.html I got lost reading it but it does mention shareholder investment equity limits which may explain the £2m investment the board made. This £2m is under the current limit so it may be possible that the more can be added. The amount available to club managers for players etc is also based on figures from december to december. Are our limits based on forecast for this year or from actuals last year ? As I said no expert but perhaps someone can have a look and give an abridged version. Another article of interest, which is actually quite scathing of the FL and tribunal fees, is worth a look at: http://footballleagu eblog.dailymail.co.u k/2012/10/mondays-ta lking-point-swindon- hung-out-to-dry-unde r-new-ffp-regulation s.html COYMR

Oxon-Red wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:
No expert in this but there is a good explanation of the fair play system at the following address: http://www.football- league.co.uk/page/FL ExplainedDetail/0,,1 0794~2748246,00.html I got lost reading it but it does mention shareholder investment equity limits which may explain the £2m investment the board made. This £2m is under the current limit so it may be possible that the more can be added. The amount available to club managers for players etc is also based on figures from december to december. Are our limits based on forecast for this year or from actuals last year ? As I said no expert but perhaps someone can have a look and give an abridged version. Another article of interest, which is actually quite scathing of the FL and tribunal fees, is worth a look at: http://footballleagu eblog.dailymail.co.u k/2012/10/mondays-ta lking-point-swindon- hung-out-to-dry-unde r-new-ffp-regulation s.html COYMR

Should add that the Daily Mail are spot on about tribunal fees. We signed Troy and James in June/July and it took until late September to fix the price. If they had fixed prices at the time we could have pulled out then or sold someone or not brought Bessone or AN Other in so we could keep below budget.

We are stuck between a rock and a hard place because we cannot sell (FL transfer window). We have broken FL rules but it is actually the FL incompetance that has caused it.

Grrrrrrrr

COYMR

Oi Den! wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote: No expert in this but there is a good explanation of the fair play system at the following address: http://www.football- league.co.uk/page/FL ExplainedDetail/0,,1 0794~2748246,00.html I got lost reading it but it does mention shareholder investment equity limits which may explain the £2m investment the board made. This £2m is under the current limit so it may be possible that the more can be added. The amount available to club managers for players etc is also based on figures from december to december. Are our limits based on forecast for this year or from actuals last year ? As I said no expert but perhaps someone can have a look and give an abridged version. Another article of interest, which is actually quite scathing of the FL and tribunal fees, is worth a look at: http://footballleagu eblog.dailymail.co.u k/2012/10/mondays-ta lking-point-swindon- hung-out-to-dry-unde r-new-ffp-regulation s.html COYMR

Should add that the Daily Mail are spot on about tribunal fees. We signed Troy and James in June/July and it took until late September to fix the price. If they had fixed prices at the time we could have pulled out then or sold someone or not brought Bessone or AN Other in so we could keep below budget. We are stuck between a rock and a hard place because we cannot sell (FL transfer window). We have broken FL rules but it is actually the FL incompetance that has caused it. Grrrrrrrr COYMR

Hmmm... I've not read the Mail article yet, but given its history of scaremongering at sh!t stirring, I am inclined to take anything it says with a pinch of salt. To be fair, Wray has said the fees for those two players were reasonable, so I can't imagine that the delay in fixing them has made much difference.

pdc does wot he wants wrote:

Since 1950 wrote: I don't think Paolo can complain too much. There can be few, if any, of his predecessors who have had such backing from a Town boardroom. He'll just have to manage the situation. All clubs go through injury and suspension problems at some stage of the season. Ours seems to have arrived alarmingly early. This is a tricky situation though if, as Mr Wray says, any more money they pump into the Club can't be seen as income. Thanks Sky! We can all look forward to ManU boys v Chelsea 3rd team on TV instead of a meaningful tie with a good chance of a giant killing. What a treat!

agree with the first part of the quote. pdc said on saturday that he is one of the best managers then i think it is time to stop moaning and prove it . you do not need five new players every time we dont play very well or get an injury or 2 im probaly going to get slated for this but i think mccormack getting injured insnt too bad a thing because he has not been very good at all this season and i think this is the only way he was not going to play and strait away we keep a clean sheet. As for the villa game if you want to watch it buy a ticket like everyone else..

the wizard wrote:
After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

the wizard wrote:
After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Oxon-Red wrote:
No expert in this but there is a good explanation of the fair play system at the following address: http://www.football- league.co.uk/page/FL ExplainedDetail/0,,1 0794~2748246,00.html I got lost reading it but it does mention shareholder investment equity limits which may explain the £2m investment the board made. This £2m is under the current limit so it may be possible that the more can be added. The amount available to club managers for players etc is also based on figures from december to december. Are our limits based on forecast for this year or from actuals last year ? As I said no expert but perhaps someone can have a look and give an abridged version. Another article of interest, which is actually quite scathing of the FL and tribunal fees, is worth a look at: http://footballleagu eblog.dailymail.co.u k/2012/10/mondays-ta lking-point-swindon- hung-out-to-dry-unde r-new-ffp-regulation s.html COYMR

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

california andy wrote: I think another option is to obtain additional sponsorship. I seem to remember Man City doing this with their stadium to allow them to do an end run around the rules and continue to splash the cash. May not be a realistic option for Swindon though. Come on Honda, you know you ought to do it!

I think it should come first from the Swindon public who need to start coming down the CG more often. We are the Man Utd of Division 1 with a large proportion of our fan base outside of Swindon. Even amoungst the regulars I sit with I would say 70% are from "out of Town." Supported by places as: Kidlington Didcot Harwell Banbury Southmoor Grove Mind you makes great reading when you see so many "Oxon" based fans not supporting their "local" team ;) ;)

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

the wizard wrote:
After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Wiz you hit the right word - "apathy".

To be honest I get a bit fed up with the "I will go when such and such is no longer Manager brigade" and the never ending excuses as to why people don't go.

As a season Ticket holder I both enrolled by 2 boys as Junior Red members costing a bargain price of £30.

Technically £30 for 2 season tickets for young children. Now if that is not a bargain and can't get kids into the CG then nothing will.

Sorry but apathy is a term I have heard aimed at the people of Swindon, regarding supporting their football team. Sadly it is difficult to argue against.

Of course the current economic climate cannot be over-looked and I can understand in these situations where people find it difficult to find the money.

.....but our Board have done more than enough in my opinion to entice a new generation of fans to come down to the CG. Its down to "us" now.

Oxon-Red wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote: No expert in this but there is a good explanation of the fair play system at the following address: http://www.football- league.co.uk/page/FL ExplainedDetail/0,,1 0794~2748246,00.html I got lost reading it but it does mention shareholder investment equity limits which may explain the £2m investment the board made. This £2m is under the current limit so it may be possible that the more can be added. The amount available to club managers for players etc is also based on figures from december to december. Are our limits based on forecast for this year or from actuals last year ? As I said no expert but perhaps someone can have a look and give an abridged version. Another article of interest, which is actually quite scathing of the FL and tribunal fees, is worth a look at: http://footballleagu eblog.dailymail.co.u k/2012/10/mondays-ta lking-point-swindon- hung-out-to-dry-unde r-new-ffp-regulation s.html COYMR

Should add that the Daily Mail are spot on about tribunal fees. We signed Troy and James in June/July and it took until late September to fix the price. If they had fixed prices at the time we could have pulled out then or sold someone or not brought Bessone or AN Other in so we could keep below budget. We are stuck between a rock and a hard place because we cannot sell (FL transfer window). We have broken FL rules but it is actually the FL incompetance that has caused it. Grrrrrrrr COYMR

Hmmm... I've not read the Mail article yet, but given its history of scaremongering at sh!t stirring, I am inclined to take anything it says with a pinch of salt. To be fair, Wray has said the fees for those two players were reasonable, so I can't imagine that the delay in fixing them has made much difference.

Den,

You are right, the fees are not the problem it is the fact that they were set in September and that we had to pay the WHOLE amount, as stated by Jay Wray.

Why couldn't the fees be set earlier ? IMO they could (probably should) have been set in July/August when the transfer window is still open. Probably down to the board members being on their expensive foreign holidays.

We could then have possibly sold a player or not brought someone in. JW would have known that the fees were all expected upfront and we could have cut our cloth accordingly.

COYMR

Oi Den! wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote: No expert in this but there is a good explanation of the fair play system at the following address: http://www.football- league.co.uk/page/FL ExplainedDetail/0,,1 0794~2748246,00.html I got lost reading it but it does mention shareholder investment equity limits which may explain the £2m investment the board made. This £2m is under the current limit so it may be possible that the more can be added. The amount available to club managers for players etc is also based on figures from december to december. Are our limits based on forecast for this year or from actuals last year ? As I said no expert but perhaps someone can have a look and give an abridged version. Another article of interest, which is actually quite scathing of the FL and tribunal fees, is worth a look at: http://footballleagu eblog.dailymail.co.u k/2012/10/mondays-ta lking-point-swindon- hung-out-to-dry-unde r-new-ffp-regulation s.html COYMR

Should add that the Daily Mail are spot on about tribunal fees. We signed Troy and James in June/July and it took until late September to fix the price. If they had fixed prices at the time we could have pulled out then or sold someone or not brought Bessone or AN Other in so we could keep below budget. We are stuck between a rock and a hard place because we cannot sell (FL transfer window). We have broken FL rules but it is actually the FL incompetance that has caused it. Grrrrrrrr COYMR

Hmmm... I've not read the Mail article yet, but given its history of scaremongering at sh!t stirring, I am inclined to take anything it says with a pinch of salt. To be fair, Wray has said the fees for those two players were reasonable, so I can't imagine that the delay in fixing them has made much difference.

Den, You are right, the fees are not the problem it is the fact that they were set in September and that we had to pay the WHOLE amount, as stated by Jay Wray. Why couldn't the fees be set earlier ? IMO they could (probably should) have been set in July/August when the transfer window is still open. Probably down to the board members being on their expensive foreign holidays. We could then have possibly sold a player or not brought someone in. JW would have known that the fees were all expected upfront and we could have cut our cloth accordingly. COYMR

Oxon, I would be interested to know in what circs fees are payable up front and when they are paid in instalments - and how many instalments over what period? Are clubs supposed to guess whether they will have to pay the whole fee straightaway? . Without knowing the full facts, I'm not sure I would be critical about the tribunal date though. I'm guessing that it's an independent panel that meets only occasionally. Maybe they handle several cases at one meeting? Another aspect is that both sides will want to be sure of a fair hearing, so I suppose there is an evidence gathering process. I wasn't going to bother reading up on the detail of these procedures but if I can find the time and willpower I think I will!

RamsburyRed wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote: No expert in this but there is a good explanation of the fair play system at the following address: http://www.football- league.co.uk/page/FL ExplainedDetail/0,,1 0794~2748246,00.html I got lost reading it but it does mention shareholder investment equity limits which may explain the £2m investment the board made. This £2m is under the current limit so it may be possible that the more can be added. The amount available to club managers for players etc is also based on figures from december to december. Are our limits based on forecast for this year or from actuals last year ? As I said no expert but perhaps someone can have a look and give an abridged version. Another article of interest, which is actually quite scathing of the FL and tribunal fees, is worth a look at: http://footballleagu eblog.dailymail.co.u k/2012/10/mondays-ta lking-point-swindon- hung-out-to-dry-unde r-new-ffp-regulation s.html COYMR

You're looking at the wrong rules & regs there, that's for Championship Clubs as the Championship is operating the UEFA Financial Fair Play rules. * Leagues One and Two are operating a much simpler system, the 'Salary Cost Management Protocal' where as stated, in L1 players' wages must be within 65 per cent of the club's turnover.

Old-Stager, Hilperton wrote:

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

california andy wrote: I think another option is to obtain additional sponsorship. I seem to remember Man City doing this with their stadium to allow them to do an end run around the rules and continue to splash the cash. May not be a realistic option for Swindon though. Come on Honda, you know you ought to do it!

I think it should come first from the Swindon public who need to start coming down the CG more often. We are the Man Utd of Division 1 with a large proportion of our fan base outside of Swindon. Even amoungst the regulars I sit with I would say 70% are from "out of Town." Supported by places as: Kidlington Didcot Harwell Banbury Southmoor Grove Mind you makes great reading when you see so many "Oxon" based fans not supporting their "local" team ;) ;)

Interesting comments by theDukeOfBanbury about our lack of support.
I seem to remember that some years ago our Season Ticket sales were 51% from Swindon itself, and 49% from outside Swindon.
Similar to the Duke's details, STFC receive massive loyal support from these Wiltshire Towns :-
Calne
Chippenham
Corsham
Devizes
Malmesbury
Marlborough
Melksham
Pewsey
Wootton Bassett
and some support from Towns like :-
Warminster
Westbury
Trowbridge - ( Where I Live )
The above three towns suffer from the BBC Bristol TV coverage in my opinion, and that's why there as many City and Rovers fans in those Towns.
Such a shame they dont come to the County Ground.

Oxon-Red wrote:
On Ticket offers, Town have one currently. The text below is copied and pasted from the Official site:

"Supporters purchasing tickets at normal price for the Yeovil Town game on Saturday 17th November (K.O. 3pm) can also purchase a ticket for the same category or lower for the Brentford game on Tuesday 20th November (K.O.7.45pm) at the promotional prices below. Season ticket holders are also able to take advantage of this promotion for the same category or lower at the prices below (maximum of 1 per season ticket)

Adult - £15

Senior Citizen/Student - £12

Young Adult (16-18) - £10

Junior (Under 15) - £7"

I will be mentioning this to my brother, who comes to a decent number of games despite living in Brum, to see if he will fit in another game. Other season ticket holders could do similar to help boost attendances.

Like many have said though, I am not sure these offers are publicised well enough. As mentioned by someone, a shop in the Town would a great start.

COYMR

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

the wizard wrote: After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Wiz you hit the right word - "apathy". To be honest I get a bit fed up with the "I will go when such and such is no longer Manager brigade" and the never ending excuses as to why people don't go. As a season Ticket holder I both enrolled by 2 boys as Junior Red members costing a bargain price of £30. Technically £30 for 2 season tickets for young children. Now if that is not a bargain and can't get kids into the CG then nothing will. Sorry but apathy is a term I have heard aimed at the people of Swindon, regarding supporting their football team. Sadly it is difficult to argue against. Of course the current economic climate cannot be over-looked and I can understand in these situations where people find it difficult to find the money. .....but our Board have done more than enough in my opinion to entice a new generation of fans to come down to the CG. Its down to "us" now.

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

the wizard wrote:
After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Wiz you hit the right word - "apathy".

To be honest I get a bit fed up with the "I will go when such and such is no longer Manager brigade" and the never ending excuses as to why people don't go.

As a season Ticket holder I both enrolled by 2 boys as Junior Red members costing a bargain price of £30.

Technically £30 for 2 season tickets for young children. Now if that is not a bargain and can't get kids into the CG then nothing will.

Sorry but apathy is a term I have heard aimed at the people of Swindon, regarding supporting their football team. Sadly it is difficult to argue against.

Of course the current economic climate cannot be over-looked and I can understand in these situations where people find it difficult to find the money.

.....but our Board have done more than enough in my opinion to entice a new generation of fans to come down to the CG. Its down to "us" now.

stigger wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:
On Ticket offers, Town have one currently. The text below is copied and pasted from the Official site:

"Supporters purchasing tickets at normal price for the Yeovil Town game on Saturday 17th November (K.O. 3pm) can also purchase a ticket for the same category or lower for the Brentford game on Tuesday 20th November (K.O.7.45pm) at the promotional prices below. Season ticket holders are also able to take advantage of this promotion for the same category or lower at the prices below (maximum of 1 per season ticket)

Adult - £15

Senior Citizen/Student - £12

Young Adult (16-18) - £10

Junior (Under 15) - £7"

I will be mentioning this to my brother, who comes to a decent number of games despite living in Brum, to see if he will fit in another game. Other season ticket holders could do similar to help boost attendances.

Like many have said though, I am not sure these offers are publicised well enough. As mentioned by someone, a shop in the Town would a great start.

COYMR

Cheers for that, cant afford to get to all games and that will prob decide Novembers home games, also got bonus of nearby away games that month being midlands based

Oxon-Red wrote:
On Ticket offers, Town have one currently. The text below is copied and pasted from the Official site:

"Supporters purchasing tickets at normal price for the Yeovil Town game on Saturday 17th November (K.O. 3pm) can also purchase a ticket for the same category or lower for the Brentford game on Tuesday 20th November (K.O.7.45pm) at the promotional prices below. Season ticket holders are also able to take advantage of this promotion for the same category or lower at the prices below (maximum of 1 per season ticket)

Adult - £15

Senior Citizen/Student - £12

Young Adult (16-18) - £10

Junior (Under 15) - £7"

I will be mentioning this to my brother, who comes to a decent number of games despite living in Brum, to see if he will fit in another game. Other season ticket holders could do similar to help boost attendances.

Like many have said though, I am not sure these offers are publicised well enough. As mentioned by someone, a shop in the Town would a great start.

COYMR

Davidsyrett wrote:

stigger wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:
On Ticket offers, Town have one currently. The text below is copied and pasted from the Official site:

"Supporters purchasing tickets at normal price for the Yeovil Town game on Saturday 17th November (K.O. 3pm) can also purchase a ticket for the same category or lower for the Brentford game on Tuesday 20th November (K.O.7.45pm) at the promotional prices below. Season ticket holders are also able to take advantage of this promotion for the same category or lower at the prices below (maximum of 1 per season ticket)

Adult - £15

Senior Citizen/Student - £12

Young Adult (16-18) - £10

Junior (Under 15) - £7"

I will be mentioning this to my brother, who comes to a decent number of games despite living in Brum, to see if he will fit in another game. Other season ticket holders could do similar to help boost attendances.

Like many have said though, I am not sure these offers are publicised well enough. As mentioned by someone, a shop in the Town would a great start.

COYMR

Cheers for that, cant afford to get to all games and that will prob decide Novembers home games, also got bonus of nearby away games that month being midlands based

This is the first I have heard of the deal and I'm a season ticket holder. Why do the club not send out letters, e-mails or posters around town broadcasting the deal.

Malkym wrote:

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

the wizard wrote: After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Wiz you hit the right word - "apathy". To be honest I get a bit fed up with the "I will go when such and such is no longer Manager brigade" and the never ending excuses as to why people don't go. As a season Ticket holder I both enrolled by 2 boys as Junior Red members costing a bargain price of £30. Technically £30 for 2 season tickets for young children. Now if that is not a bargain and can't get kids into the CG then nothing will. Sorry but apathy is a term I have heard aimed at the people of Swindon, regarding supporting their football team. Sadly it is difficult to argue against. Of course the current economic climate cannot be over-looked and I can understand in these situations where people find it difficult to find the money. .....but our Board have done more than enough in my opinion to entice a new generation of fans to come down to the CG. Its down to "us" now.

Duke I think its a bit blase to say apathy and also I'm a bit fed up with I'll go when such and such etc... for my part and doubtless I'll get slated for saying it again but I want to be entertained first and foremost and value for my hard earned second- while PdC is boss wild horses won't keep me away - if Malpass returned free entry wouldn't drag me in there. This subject has been debated on here to death like a lot of others.Alternative leisure options and other interests such as Speedway to be topical, Racing, etc and many participating in sports like golf or local leagues when town have a game -far greater options than the bygone days Wizman refers to when it was footy or nowt. The economic factor has been mentioned and has to be taken into consideration - Duke mentions the absolute value of Junior Reds -no argument there but what about when the boys are strapping 16 year olds, still at school/college -not earning and the £30 rises to £90? Not quite so clear cut then is it? duke may well be in a position to stump up that sort of cash but not everybody can and again as Wizman says its all about priorities. I fully agree that the club could improve its marketing strategies - and "catch 'em young" is a good one amongst other suggestions - free entry for school parties to what are expected to be average attended games to generate more noise - its not as though we're packed out are we? Strange if its not rocket science to us why it is to JW & Co. even though he's said -good ideas but sat on them it seems. They could do much to expand this side of the club to complement the excellent hospitality & mascot packages etc.

SAPFanSTFC wrote:
How about the Advertiser having a big banner heading on the front page stating:
---.
ADULTS ONLY £15...UNDR 15s ONLY £7 for YEOVIL and.....etc.
---.
....even if it is for small percentage i.e. 0.1% of any attendance increase achieved.
Just has to be a local answer here!?

Angolan Red wrote:
Decanio has to wake up and smell the coffee, we have enough players its just Decanios childish behaviour in openly critising players ones that hes signed does nothing for confidence. Stop moaning cut your cloth to the budget we have. Come January bring back Caddis who makes Ritchie a better player and if Decanio doesnt like it show Decanio the door before he walks away leaving the club in debt undoing all Fittons good work

Angolan Red wrote:
Decanio has to wake up and smell the coffee, we have enough players its just Decanios childish behaviour in openly critising players ones that hes signed does nothing for confidence. Stop moaning cut your cloth to the budget we have. Come January bring back Caddis who makes Ritchie a better player and if Decanio doesnt like it show Decanio the door before he walks away leaving the club in debt undoing all Fittons good work

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

california andy wrote:
I think another option is to obtain additional sponsorship. I seem to remember Man City doing this with their stadium to allow them to do an end run around the rules and continue to splash the cash. May not be a realistic option for Swindon though. Come on Honda, you know you ought to do it!

I think it should come first from the Swindon public who need to start coming down the CG more often.

We are the Man Utd of Division 1 with a large proportion of our fan base outside of Swindon.

Even amoungst the regulars I sit with I would say 70% are from "out of Town."
Supported by places as:

Kidlington
Didcot
Harwell
Banbury
Southmoor
Grove

Mind you makes great reading when you see so many "Oxon" based fans not supporting their "local" team ;) ;)

Oxon-Red wrote:

Malkym wrote:

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

the wizard wrote: After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Wiz you hit the right word - "apathy". To be honest I get a bit fed up with the "I will go when such and such is no longer Manager brigade" and the never ending excuses as to why people don't go. As a season Ticket holder I both enrolled by 2 boys as Junior Red members costing a bargain price of £30. Technically £30 for 2 season tickets for young children. Now if that is not a bargain and can't get kids into the CG then nothing will. Sorry but apathy is a term I have heard aimed at the people of Swindon, regarding supporting their football team. Sadly it is difficult to argue against. Of course the current economic climate cannot be over-looked and I can understand in these situations where people find it difficult to find the money. .....but our Board have done more than enough in my opinion to entice a new generation of fans to come down to the CG. Its down to "us" now.

Duke I think its a bit blase to say apathy and also I'm a bit fed up with I'll go when such and such etc... for my part and doubtless I'll get slated for saying it again but I want to be entertained first and foremost and value for my hard earned second- while PdC is boss wild horses won't keep me away - if Malpass returned free entry wouldn't drag me in there. This subject has been debated on here to death like a lot of others.Alternative leisure options and other interests such as Speedway to be topical, Racing, etc and many participating in sports like golf or local leagues when town have a game -far greater options than the bygone days Wizman refers to when it was footy or nowt. The economic factor has been mentioned and has to be taken into consideration - Duke mentions the absolute value of Junior Reds -no argument there but what about when the boys are strapping 16 year olds, still at school/college -not earning and the £30 rises to £90? Not quite so clear cut then is it? duke may well be in a position to stump up that sort of cash but not everybody can and again as Wizman says its all about priorities. I fully agree that the club could improve its marketing strategies - and "catch 'em young" is a good one amongst other suggestions - free entry for school parties to what are expected to be average attended games to generate more noise - its not as though we're packed out are we? Strange if its not rocket science to us why it is to JW & Co. even though he's said -good ideas but sat on them it seems. They could do much to expand this side of the club to complement the excellent hospitality & mascot packages etc.

Wiz,

The school parties scheme would be good and I have supported this in the past. Just one kid hooked out of the group is one more (two with dad/mum maybe) for the future.

Town (STFCITC) do a scheme for local kids football teams with training in the morning, lunch and a ticket to the game. My daughter would love to take her team of Under 10's but the £20 each cost is a barrier. I am not expecting them to provide it for free but believe they would get more takers if it was less expensive.

COYMR

joey butler wrote:
Just heard on Sky Sports News that PDC is 12-1 for the Bolton job, good to see him mentioned at a much bigger club, although I think West Ham would be his dream.

At least it proves he is getting noticed, well done PDC.

mancrobin wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:

Malkym wrote:

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

the wizard wrote: After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Wiz you hit the right word - "apathy". To be honest I get a bit fed up with the "I will go when such and such is no longer Manager brigade" and the never ending excuses as to why people don't go. As a season Ticket holder I both enrolled by 2 boys as Junior Red members costing a bargain price of £30. Technically £30 for 2 season tickets for young children. Now if that is not a bargain and can't get kids into the CG then nothing will. Sorry but apathy is a term I have heard aimed at the people of Swindon, regarding supporting their football team. Sadly it is difficult to argue against. Of course the current economic climate cannot be over-looked and I can understand in these situations where people find it difficult to find the money. .....but our Board have done more than enough in my opinion to entice a new generation of fans to come down to the CG. Its down to "us" now.

Duke I think its a bit blase to say apathy and also I'm a bit fed up with I'll go when such and such etc... for my part and doubtless I'll get slated for saying it again but I want to be entertained first and foremost and value for my hard earned second- while PdC is boss wild horses won't keep me away - if Malpass returned free entry wouldn't drag me in there. This subject has been debated on here to death like a lot of others.Alternative leisure options and other interests such as Speedway to be topical, Racing, etc and many participating in sports like golf or local leagues when town have a game -far greater options than the bygone days Wizman refers to when it was footy or nowt. The economic factor has been mentioned and has to be taken into consideration - Duke mentions the absolute value of Junior Reds -no argument there but what about when the boys are strapping 16 year olds, still at school/college -not earning and the £30 rises to £90? Not quite so clear cut then is it? duke may well be in a position to stump up that sort of cash but not everybody can and again as Wizman says its all about priorities. I fully agree that the club could improve its marketing strategies - and "catch 'em young" is a good one amongst other suggestions - free entry for school parties to what are expected to be average attended games to generate more noise - its not as though we're packed out are we? Strange if its not rocket science to us why it is to JW & Co. even though he's said -good ideas but sat on them it seems. They could do much to expand this side of the club to complement the excellent hospitality & mascot packages etc.

Wiz,

The school parties scheme would be good and I have supported this in the past. Just one kid hooked out of the group is one more (two with dad/mum maybe) for the future.

Town (STFCITC) do a scheme for local kids football teams with training in the morning, lunch and a ticket to the game. My daughter would love to take her team of Under 10's but the £20 each cost is a barrier. I am not expecting them to provide it for free but believe they would get more takers if it was less expensive.

COYMR

This is a good thread and really gets to heart of the issue which is about the club's future viability and how to attract a much bigger fan base. On the latter, from a marketing point of view, I don't think it's helpful to blame those who don't come!

Which brings me to my main point. Isn't all of this the main responsibility of the Chief Executive, Nick Watkins? Why haven't we heard from him?

joey butler wrote:
Just heard on Sky Sports News that PDC is 12-1 for the Bolton job, good to see him mentioned at a much bigger club, although I think West Ham would be his dream.

At least it proves he is getting noticed, well done PDC.

the wizard wrote:

mancrobin wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:

Malkym wrote:

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

the wizard wrote: After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Wiz you hit the right word - "apathy". To be honest I get a bit fed up with the "I will go when such and such is no longer Manager brigade" and the never ending excuses as to why people don't go. As a season Ticket holder I both enrolled by 2 boys as Junior Red members costing a bargain price of £30. Technically £30 for 2 season tickets for young children. Now if that is not a bargain and can't get kids into the CG then nothing will. Sorry but apathy is a term I have heard aimed at the people of Swindon, regarding supporting their football team. Sadly it is difficult to argue against. Of course the current economic climate cannot be over-looked and I can understand in these situations where people find it difficult to find the money. .....but our Board have done more than enough in my opinion to entice a new generation of fans to come down to the CG. Its down to "us" now.

Duke I think its a bit blase to say apathy and also I'm a bit fed up with I'll go when such and such etc... for my part and doubtless I'll get slated for saying it again but I want to be entertained first and foremost and value for my hard earned second- while PdC is boss wild horses won't keep me away - if Malpass returned free entry wouldn't drag me in there. This subject has been debated on here to death like a lot of others.Alternative leisure options and other interests such as Speedway to be topical, Racing, etc and many participating in sports like golf or local leagues when town have a game -far greater options than the bygone days Wizman refers to when it was footy or nowt. The economic factor has been mentioned and has to be taken into consideration - Duke mentions the absolute value of Junior Reds -no argument there but what about when the boys are strapping 16 year olds, still at school/college -not earning and the £30 rises to £90? Not quite so clear cut then is it? duke may well be in a position to stump up that sort of cash but not everybody can and again as Wizman says its all about priorities. I fully agree that the club could improve its marketing strategies - and "catch 'em young" is a good one amongst other suggestions - free entry for school parties to what are expected to be average attended games to generate more noise - its not as though we're packed out are we? Strange if its not rocket science to us why it is to JW & Co. even though he's said -good ideas but sat on them it seems. They could do much to expand this side of the club to complement the excellent hospitality & mascot packages etc.

Wiz,

The school parties scheme would be good and I have supported this in the past. Just one kid hooked out of the group is one more (two with dad/mum maybe) for the future.

Town (STFCITC) do a scheme for local kids football teams with training in the morning, lunch and a ticket to the game. My daughter would love to take her team of Under 10's but the £20 each cost is a barrier. I am not expecting them to provide it for free but believe they would get more takers if it was less expensive.

COYMR

This is a good thread and really gets to heart of the issue which is about the club's future viability and how to attract a much bigger fan base. On the latter, from a marketing point of view, I don't think it's helpful to blame those who don't come!

Which brings me to my main point. Isn't all of this the main responsibility of the Chief Executive, Nick Watkins? Why haven't we heard from him?

Nick Watkins is a great guy. When he has something constructive to say he will say it. I don't think he is the sort that rushes into things without doing research and so on first and then judging the viability of what ever is suggested. He is though very approachable and does listen to genuine concerns and well structured views. Like Wray, we are lucky to have him . If you write to him at the club then he will answer.

the wizard wrote:

mancrobin wrote:

Oxon-Red wrote:

Malkym wrote:

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

the wizard wrote: After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Wiz you hit the right word - "apathy". To be honest I get a bit fed up with the "I will go when such and such is no longer Manager brigade" and the never ending excuses as to why people don't go. As a season Ticket holder I both enrolled by 2 boys as Junior Red members costing a bargain price of £30. Technically £30 for 2 season tickets for young children. Now if that is not a bargain and can't get kids into the CG then nothing will. Sorry but apathy is a term I have heard aimed at the people of Swindon, regarding supporting their football team. Sadly it is difficult to argue against. Of course the current economic climate cannot be over-looked and I can understand in these situations where people find it difficult to find the money. .....but our Board have done more than enough in my opinion to entice a new generation of fans to come down to the CG. Its down to "us" now.

Duke I think its a bit blase to say apathy and also I'm a bit fed up with I'll go when such and such etc... for my part and doubtless I'll get slated for saying it again but I want to be entertained first and foremost and value for my hard earned second- while PdC is boss wild horses won't keep me away - if Malpass returned free entry wouldn't drag me in there. This subject has been debated on here to death like a lot of others.Alternative leisure options and other interests such as Speedway to be topical, Racing, etc and many participating in sports like golf or local leagues when town have a game -far greater options than the bygone days Wizman refers to when it was footy or nowt. The economic factor has been mentioned and has to be taken into consideration - Duke mentions the absolute value of Junior Reds -no argument there but what about when the boys are strapping 16 year olds, still at school/college -not earning and the £30 rises to £90? Not quite so clear cut then is it? duke may well be in a position to stump up that sort of cash but not everybody can and again as Wizman says its all about priorities. I fully agree that the club could improve its marketing strategies - and "catch 'em young" is a good one amongst other suggestions - free entry for school parties to what are expected to be average attended games to generate more noise - its not as though we're packed out are we? Strange if its not rocket science to us why it is to JW & Co. even though he's said -good ideas but sat on them it seems. They could do much to expand this side of the club to complement the excellent hospitality & mascot packages etc.

Wiz,

The school parties scheme would be good and I have supported this in the past. Just one kid hooked out of the group is one more (two with dad/mum maybe) for the future.

Town (STFCITC) do a scheme for local kids football teams with training in the morning, lunch and a ticket to the game. My daughter would love to take her team of Under 10's but the £20 each cost is a barrier. I am not expecting them to provide it for free but believe they would get more takers if it was less expensive.

COYMR

This is a good thread and really gets to heart of the issue which is about the club's future viability and how to attract a much bigger fan base. On the latter, from a marketing point of view, I don't think it's helpful to blame those who don't come!

Which brings me to my main point. Isn't all of this the main responsibility of the Chief Executive, Nick Watkins? Why haven't we heard from him?

Nick Watkins is a great guy. When he has something constructive to say he will say it. I don't think he is the sort that rushes into things without doing research and so on first and then judging the viability of what ever is suggested. He is though very approachable and does listen to genuine concerns and well structured views. Like Wray, we are lucky to have him . If you write to him at the club then he will answer.

London Red wrote:
Den - the reason why equity would be viewed differently to loans is it is pretty much perm
.
If interest free loans were still allowed we could loan the club X and then pull it straight after a player was signed
.
Equity however can't just be pulled - they would have to pay a dividend- never going to happen when equity is at negative 18m or something equally high
.
A share buyback - unlikely as we are not cash rich
.
Or sell - again unlikely as it would mean writing off their 12m+ investment to make the club anywhere near attractive at this point in time
.
Equity is basically a gift - I never expect to get anything back from my investment - it was just a show of support for the current board
.
I didn't think it counted but thought it was said it was in the summer - if I got that wrong fine - scratch that from the list of possibilities
.
Also why we are on the topic of allowable revenue - thought cup gate receipts were excluded as it rewards someone for a luck of a draw
.
Getting Man U away could be worth well over £500k compared to a home game against Stoke or whoever
.
At 65% that is another £325k in wages just from the luck!!!!!

KojaktheWarg wrote:
Yes. Lets see if he can manage. its obviously not clear yet as we only became champions by accident last year not by managing the team. And we are only 4th this year so its all gone wrong since he arrived hasnt it???????

In PDC we trust...

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
I am nearly losing the will to live today but thank you thank you The Duke Of Banbury for restoring my faith. Good on you sir, your kids and all who know you. Spot on.

As for some of the other stuff. Caddis jog on, why should Paolo eat humble pie? He wouldn't train as Poalo wants, no exceptions. Extraordinary. Tickets £25 with some promotions, excellent otherwise season tickets would be more. (and that's as someone who had to get the money together in the third phase to get one).

If Paolo goes to Bolton we'll have Owen Coyle, please slit my wrists... drip drip drip.... I like Owen Coyle a lot, I like his dignity and I like him as a manager. But our manager is better, he is not leaving and long may he stay here.

Whilst most don't like his outbursts if it's sole purpose is to keep clubs from higher divisions away then it's another reason I'll be happy. But tonight I'm not going to let the bar stewards get me down. Duke I shall be raising a glass to you, your family and your mates. Top draw.

Malkym wrote:

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

the wizard wrote: After carrying out a sort of survey among family and friends in Swindon and surrounding area, there seems to be a lot of apathy towards the club because of the way it was run before the new board took over, especially among the older people asked. Its all down to the past. Everyone has said the club seems to be doing well, but are none committal because our present upwards journey is only seen as a temporary one. The question often asked is how long will it be before the club is on its uppers again, so the present situation does little to help that as people surmise the facts rather than check them out. Marketing aimed at the younger generations I see as they way forwards, schools, clubs, colleges even concessions to larger companies where perhaps a deal can be done as many have suggested before on say books of tickets at a good price, say five tickets over a choice of ten listed games. A promotion of half season tickets at Xmas, again at a promotional price for a limited period, in an effort to get S/T sales up from where it is.

Wiz you hit the right word - "apathy". To be honest I get a bit fed up with the "I will go when such and such is no longer Manager brigade" and the never ending excuses as to why people don't go. As a season Ticket holder I both enrolled by 2 boys as Junior Red members costing a bargain price of £30. Technically £30 for 2 season tickets for young children. Now if that is not a bargain and can't get kids into the CG then nothing will. Sorry but apathy is a term I have heard aimed at the people of Swindon, regarding supporting their football team. Sadly it is difficult to argue against. Of course the current economic climate cannot be over-looked and I can understand in these situations where people find it difficult to find the money. .....but our Board have done more than enough in my opinion to entice a new generation of fans to come down to the CG. Its down to "us" now.

Duke I think its a bit blase to say apathy and also I'm a bit fed up with I'll go when such and such etc... for my part and doubtless I'll get slated for saying it again but I want to be entertained first and foremost and value for my hard earned second- while PdC is boss wild horses won't keep me away - if Malpass returned free entry wouldn't drag me in there.

This subject has been debated on here to death like a lot of others.Alternative leisure options and other interests such as Speedway to be topical, Racing, etc and many participating in sports like golf or local leagues when town have a game -far greater options than the bygone days Wizman refers to when it was footy or nowt.

The economic factor has been mentioned and has to be taken into consideration - Duke mentions the absolute value of Junior Reds -no argument there but what about when the boys are strapping 16 year olds, still at school/college -not earning and the £30 rises to £90? Not quite so clear cut then is it? duke may well be in a position to stump up that sort of cash but not everybody can and again as Wizman says its all about priorities.

I fully agree that the club could improve its marketing strategies - and "catch 'em young" is a good one amongst other suggestions - free entry for school parties to what are expected to be average attended games to generate more noise - its not as though we're packed out are we?

Strange if its not rocket science to us why it is to JW & Co. even though he's said -good ideas but sat on them it seems. They could do much to expand this side of the club to complement the excellent hospitality & mascot packages etc.

MidlandRobin wrote:

Angolan Red wrote:
Decanio has to wake up and smell the coffee, we have enough players its just Decanios childish behaviour in openly critising players ones that hes signed does nothing for confidence. Stop moaning cut your cloth to the budget we have. Come January bring back Caddis who makes Ritchie a better player and if Decanio doesnt like it show Decanio the door before he walks away leaving the club in debt undoing all Fittons good work

Spot on lad.

RamsburyRed wrote:
It is and always has been worked out on turnover, it's got nothing to do with loans, equity etc.
*
Not sure why people find it so hard to get to grips with turnover; for STFC it is season ticket sales, gate receipts, tv money, prize money, commercial and advertising revenue, player sales, sponsorship. Turnover is a business's income basically.
*
Whilst most businesses cannot magically increase turnover, all can cut their costs, in this case it would need to be the playing staff - however, this is counterproductive for obvious reasons and PDC is already saying we could be short owing to injuries.
*
The silver bullet is often 'sponsorship'. Where the owners of a club also own a profitable business (say, an airline, if you get my drift), there is nothing to stop the business offering generous sponsorship to the club. Sponsorship counting as turnover, problem solved.

Oi Den! wrote:
I've only just realised what a bad start Bolton have had. Just a few places up the ladder and a lot more pressure to turn it around? Can't see it being an attraction to PDC.

London Red wrote:
Granted it does help those with wealthy backers - but it does prevent Pompey scenarios as such as money can't be taken back out easily
.
I can see the arguements for and against and think the limits set in financial FairPlay rules seems a good compromise
.
Anyway despite the confusion in the summer it appears it is not valid investment so irrelevant debate really
.
In fact this whole topic has been as Wray confirmed in his interview it is not an issue at present for PdC - the point was if we were to remain under one and injuries hit again (and harder or to key players - ala Wes) we could be screwed
.
PdC said he would take a pay cut to get more budget - that could be a solution that could work!!!

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
I am nearly losing the will to live today but thank you thank you The Duke Of Banbury for restoring my faith. Good on you sir, your kids and all who know you. Spot on.

As for some of the other stuff. Caddis jog on, why should Paolo eat humble pie? He wouldn't train as Poalo wants, no exceptions. Extraordinary. Tickets £25 with some promotions, excellent otherwise season tickets would be more. (and that's as someone who had to get the money together in the third phase to get one).

If Paolo goes to Bolton we'll have Owen Coyle, please slit my wrists... drip drip drip.... I like Owen Coyle a lot, I like his dignity and I like him as a manager. But our manager is better, he is not leaving and long may he stay here.

Whilst most don't like his outbursts if it's sole purpose is to keep clubs from higher divisions away then it's another reason I'll be happy. But tonight I'm not going to let the bar stewards get me down. Duke I shall be raising a glass to you, your family and your mates. Top draw.

Oi Den! wrote:
Yes JB, I knew I should have explained myself better. I was mostly just adding to your comment rather than disagreeing with you. Apologies for a pi55 poor post! On the subject of relative size of the clubs, I do think we are bigger than our status suggests. We've just lost our way. If we had managed to capitalise on our previous successes, I think we would now be viewed in the same bracket as say Bolton, Blackburn and Ipswich.

killerontheloose wrote:
The bottom line is that the attendances remain pathetic for a town the size of Swindon and surrounding area -particularly given the commitment and drive of the manager and investment from the Board. These days won't last forever and PDC will be on to bigger and better things so the residents of Wilts should fill the ground!

DarrenSTFCRomain wrote:

killerontheloose wrote: The bottom line is that the attendances remain pathetic for a town the size of Swindon and surrounding area -particularly given the commitment and drive of the manager and investment from the Board. These days won't last forever and PDC will be on to bigger and better things so the residents of Wilts should fill the ground!

And the bottom line is people with familys just cant aford days at football... TIMES ARE HARD but times are not hard at STFC... We are in this embarge bacause we have spent to much and most of that comes down to STFC bringing in players on 2 year contracts then paying them off.. We new we had to pay for Williams and troy but now were saying that we thought that we could pay for them laster ???

Malkym wrote:

DarrenSTFCRomain wrote:

killerontheloose wrote: The bottom line is that the attendances remain pathetic for a town the size of Swindon and surrounding area -particularly given the commitment and drive of the manager and investment from the Board. These days won't last forever and PDC will be on to bigger and better things so the residents of Wilts should fill the ground!

And the bottom line is people with familys just cant aford days at football... TIMES ARE HARD but times are not hard at STFC... We are in this embarge bacause we have spent to much and most of that comes down to STFC bringing in players on 2 year contracts then paying them off.. We new we had to pay for Williams and troy but now were saying that we thought that we could pay for them laster ???

Dazzler you are right - as I said, many folks with families can't afford to be regular attendees, much as they would like and yes it's great when they're junior reds but once that ends the matchday costs keep spiralling -they'll want more burgers for a start lol!

TheDukeOfBanbury wrote:

dreamofacleansheet2 wrote:
I am nearly losing the will to live today but thank you thank you The Duke Of Banbury for restoring my faith. Good on you sir, your kids and all who know you. Spot on.

As for some of the other stuff. Caddis jog on, why should Paolo eat humble pie? He wouldn't train as Poalo wants, no exceptions. Extraordinary. Tickets £25 with some promotions, excellent otherwise season tickets would be more. (and that's as someone who had to get the money together in the third phase to get one).

If Paolo goes to Bolton we'll have Owen Coyle, please slit my wrists... drip drip drip.... I like Owen Coyle a lot, I like his dignity and I like him as a manager. But our manager is better, he is not leaving and long may he stay here.

Whilst most don't like his outbursts if it's sole purpose is to keep clubs from higher divisions away then it's another reason I'll be happy. But tonight I'm not going to let the bar stewards get me down. Duke I shall be raising a glass to you, your family and your mates. Top draw.

Bless you mate. Never go down the better fan than you argument but I love these threads when fans share their history and passions following the Town.

When it comes to stories I have many in the locker and coming to the call of duty. To share one special one with you. In 2002/3 season I was lucky to win an award Nationwide Supporter of the year. As well as the title I was lucky enough to win a couple of grand for the prize. I gave half of it to STFC as they were the reason behind the win. Mrs not to happy as we were getting married but we were both invited as guests for the Northampton game. We are still together so I guess it was the right result :)
I guess this is why I love my Club :)

Oi Den! wrote:
Good post MITTED. I think I'd even go as far as to say that football snobbery prevails in a lot of families - even well established local ones - who think they need to be seen to "support" a big club, while looking down their noses at STFC. Also there's peer pressure amongst kids. Our grandson feels more comfortable in a Liverpool shirt than a Town shirt because nearly all his mates are "supporters" of one of the big clubs. This is the stuff we have to try to reverse. . One last point. The last 20 or 30 years has seen the emergence of the non-supporting "supporter" - the person who thinks that talking about a club and faithfully watching it on Sky is supporting it. They seem to be blissfully unaware that supporting your football club means being there with your voice, your financial contribution and your soul. And - before I get accused of picking on people who would love to be there but can't - I should just add that I'm not talking about them.

MITTED wrote:

Malkym wrote:

DarrenSTFCRomain wrote:

killerontheloose wrote: The bottom line is that the attendances remain pathetic for a town the size of Swindon and surrounding area -particularly given the commitment and drive of the manager and investment from the Board. These days won't last forever and PDC will be on to bigger and better things so the residents of Wilts should fill the ground!

And the bottom line is people with familys just cant aford days at football... TIMES ARE HARD but times are not hard at STFC... We are in this embarge bacause we have spent to much and most of that comes down to STFC bringing in players on 2 year contracts then paying them off.. We new we had to pay for Williams and troy but now were saying that we thought that we could pay for them laster ???

Dazzler you are right - as I said, many folks with families can't afford to be regular attendees, much as they would like and yes it's great when they're junior reds but once that ends the matchday costs keep spiralling -they'll want more burgers for a start lol!

You miss the point about JRs as they get older. It is about hooking them as Town supporters for life and you do that by taking them regularly - for most the JR package is a bargain. Yes, there will always be those who will plead poverty and for many it will be true. But it comes back to hooking those kids for life, just like I was. And I had to go out and earn my money to get to games. It wasn't easy but I did it because Town was ingrained by then. The lowest common denominator cannot be pleas of poverty because no one would ever go.

avo wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:
Good post MITTED. I think I'd even go as far as to say that football snobbery prevails in a lot of families - even well established local ones - who think they need to be seen to "support" a big club, while looking down their noses at STFC. Also there's peer pressure amongst kids. Our grandson feels more comfortable in a Liverpool shirt than a Town shirt because nearly all his mates are "supporters" of one of the big clubs. This is the stuff we have to try to reverse. . One last point. The last 20 or 30 years has seen the emergence of the non-supporting "supporter" - the person who thinks that talking about a club and faithfully watching it on Sky is supporting it. They seem to be blissfully unaware that supporting your football club means being there with your voice, your financial contribution and your soul. And - before I get accused of picking on people who would love to be there but can't - I should just add that I'm not talking about them.

Yet-at my sons school, it is a constant pleasure to see so many of the young boys running around in there swindon kits!
.
It seems that in some areas this is the case, but not all, yet......

Oi Den! wrote:
Yes JB, I knew I should have explained myself better. I was mostly just adding to your comment rather than disagreeing with you. Apologies for a pi55 poor post! On the subject of relative size of the clubs, I do think we are bigger than our status suggests. We've just lost our way. If we had managed to capitalise on our previous successes, I think we would now be viewed in the same bracket as say Bolton, Blackburn and Ipswich.

SAPFanSTFC wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:
Yes JB, I knew I should have explained myself better. I was mostly just adding to your comment rather than disagreeing with you. Apologies for a pi55 poor post! On the subject of relative size of the clubs, I do think we are bigger than our status suggests. We've just lost our way. If we had managed to capitalise on our previous successes, I think we would now be viewed in the same bracket as say Bolton, Blackburn and Ipswich.

Totally agree with you on that score - we stood toe to toe with Blackburn rising up through the leagues but their big investment changed things.
---.
I always wonder what would have happened had we NOT been demoted!?
...now that was a team I believed could have kept us in the top flight we would have looked a very different proposition to the team with which we got promoted next time round.

Oi Den! wrote:

SAPFanSTFC wrote:

Oi Den! wrote:
Yes JB, I knew I should have explained myself better. I was mostly just adding to your comment rather than disagreeing with you. Apologies for a pi55 poor post! On the subject of relative size of the clubs, I do think we are bigger than our status suggests. We've just lost our way. If we had managed to capitalise on our previous successes, I think we would now be viewed in the same bracket as say Bolton, Blackburn and Ipswich.

Totally agree with you on that score - we stood toe to toe with Blackburn rising up through the leagues but their big investment changed things.
---.
I always wonder what would have happened had we NOT been demoted!?
...now that was a team I believed could have kept us in the top flight we would have looked a very different proposition to the team with which we got promoted next time round.

Yep, that side was much less fragile than the Hoddle/Gorman team (which was severely weakened by the loss of Calderwood), while still managing to play the best football in the land. I don't think we'd have been the whipping boys of the top flight that we eventually became.