THE annual conference of Supporters Direct was given a massive boost by the announcement that the Football Stadia Improvement Fund had agreed to an initial grant of £268,000 with further funding applications to be considered next month.
This not only removes the prospect of immediate redundancy notices, but also makes room to recruit a funding specialist to investigate other possible sources of revenue.
The conference was also uplifted by a presentation from William Gaillard, UEFA’s director of communications and advisor to its president, Michel Platini, which included a ringing endorsement of Supporters Direct’s work in Europe.
Mark Bradley’s (The Fan Experience Co) presentation of how clubs need to get closer to their supporters had some very local interest with a special focus on the Town XI v Kids match in May. Blue and white stripes in abundance – magic!
The conference also marked the launch of two further briefing papers relating to the Commons’ Select Committee’s investigation into football governance.
There was much of interest on funding schemes which could well have real relevance for Town’s Supporters Association.
As for the Association itself, please give some thought as to how you may be able to help by joining the committee. It would be great to hear from you, either by emailing members@htsa-online.co.uk or by writing to PO Box 1908, Huddersfield HD4 6WT.
It’s not long to the start of the season and the Heavy Woollen group is off to an even earlier start.
Their first meeting will be held next Thursday at the Barclays Club, 189-191 North Road, Ravensthorpe (8pm).
Town skipper Peter Clarke will be there to receive his award as Heavy Woollen Player of the Year, so it’s clearly a chance to hear how the pre-season campaign is progressing.
