Supporters Forum- Further Update
We are pleased to inform supporters of non playing matters that were discussed at the packed Supporters Forum held at the Phoenix Club on Friday evening where fans were introduced to new manager Gary Waddock. The matters listed were discussed by Chief Executive Doug Wilson and Chairman John McGinty
Playing Surface
- Six weeks ago the whole of the top of the playing surface was scraped off and reseeded. Doug Wilson explained that the pitch is looking good and with four weeks to go before the first friendly against Crystal Palace on the 17th July we are in line to have an excellent playing pitch for next season.
Attendance Expectations
- Doug explained that for budgetary purposes the club has based its projections upon an average gate of 2350, which was the average attendance for 2006/07.
He added that with the arrival of Gary Waddock, the known strength of the core squad plus anticipation of new signings coupled with the efforts of our new key sponsor, Ezylet.co.uk the Board hope to notably exceed this conservative number, but this of course rests firmly with the fans.
He also confirmed the importance of operating to a balanced budget. Clearly the club has to address its overall financial position but Gary has been advised if the attendances are regularly higher and we do well in Cup competitions some additional funding for the player budget will be forthcoming during the course of the season.
Shares
Doug expressed his disappointment at the level of support received to date. Shareholders and supporters have been made aware of the increase in Authorised Capital following the EGM held on the 19th April and the need for the club to receive donations within the current financial year which closes effectively this Friday, 29th June.
Directors are increasing their shareholdings to 10,000 shares each in accordance with the approved EGM resolution that this be the new minimum holding.
He passed thanks to those who have made enquiry at the Office and completed share application forms. He was receptive if anybody wanted to talk with him after the forum.
A question from the floor sought an understanding of the Club's financial position if the capital raising was not successful. Doug explained the purpose was to restore liquidity following the loss of £207k in the 05/06 season and the expected loss for this year.
If the funding was successful it would also enable the paying down of some of the seven year term loan of £146,000 which is costing effectively £30,000 per year to service and repay.
To the extent the Club had operated for a number of years servicing a £100,000 loan to construct the Phoenix Club the difference in monthly expenditure for this larger sum amounted to around £450 which hopefully could be effectively managed.
However it is the restoration of liquidity which is the priority objective and more funding is still required.
Chelsea FC
- Chelsea FC has been exceptionally good to Aldershot Town since the inaugural agreement of their reserves playing at the Rec commenced in 2001/02. In accordance with the contract they have already paid the club for season 2007/08 giving the Board a cushion whilst they look at alternative opportunities.
Community
- John McGinty explained that club is looking to forge greater links within the local community especially to encourage junior supporters.
Websites
Doug explained that the Club had been frustrated with the delay in the relaunch for the "Shots Online" but due to circumstances this hasn't happened as quickly as anticipated.
He did state that the new Premium Package and SMS services will be launched prior to the start of the 07/08 season with two options available:
i. SMS Package. £36 per annum
ii. Premium Package including Video and Audio services plus SMS. £60 per annum.
The normal website will also be updated before the start of the new season including new photographs/sponsors logos etc.
Extensive work has been undertaken to improve the site, particularly with video and audio interviews which have been on the main www.theshots.co.uk site and will be a committed part of the Premium package.
Responding to a question on old content within the site Doug explained in addition to Graham Brookland who concentrates on football matters two other individuals have agreed to take on day to day policing responsibilities of the site to ensure we have updated photos and current information on non playing activity.
Doug and John emphasised that they are keen to expand on revenue possibilities on the website including the Club Shop.
Also previous subscribers to the site will have their agreements honoured with the new site. The club apologises for the delay in the re-launch but it is to happen very shortly.
Recreation Ground/Volunteer Support
Guttering- Work is planned next week to address this and in addition a core of volunteers will be arriving to carry out a whole schedule of pre season tidy up works.
John and Doug thanked the extensive team of volunteers who have been invaluable with their support of projects around the Rec in recent months, including the Hospitality Box areas, decorating, Dressing Rooms.
John confirmed that this year there were more volunteers during the close season than for many seasons and this was greatly appreciated.
Budget
- John McGinty confirmed that the Board of Directors are working with a strict budget because the most important aspect is the continuity of the football club. He explained that as custodians of the football it is important to preserve its long term future for the supporters.
- It was confirmed that an Open Day is to be held on Sunday July 15 at the Recreation Ground where the new shirt will be launched with the new ezylet.co.uk logo.
Phoenix Club
It was confirmed that the club are currently looking at alternative ways of increasing revenue including actively looking at increased use of the Phoenix Club.
John concluded that the supporters should be proud of the achievement in their part in getting ATFC to where it currently stands and that it is a phenomenal achievement. From here it is onwards and upwards.
