Supporters Council Meeting
Thursday, 14th May 2015East End Park, Thursday 14th May. Part One - Ross McArthur
A packed Kingdom Suite welcomed new manager, Allan Johnston, to the Supporters Council meeting. Top table comprised Ross McArthur, Allan Johnston, Bob Garmony, Ian Hunter.
A view from the Boardroom was given by Ross McArthur in what he termed the "warm up" act for the new manager. He started off explaining where the club was and hoped that everyone felt that communication was much improved. Playing staff are now back based at East End Park.
The schools engagement programme is flourishing with over half the primary schools already engaged. Fans groups were providing important support:-
1885 Business Club, Disability Access & Liaison Group, Stadium Management volunteers, PST, DASC, Young Pars etc. Dunfermline Heritage Trust
Positives
Last season there were 2100 Season Ticket holders, Average home attendance 2700
Centenary Lifeline 1050 members
Social Media platforms booming
Match day hospitality close to max capacity
Increased interest in commercial activities.
Agreeing that it was a disappointing season. Sole objective is promotion to Championship, and that is vital if we want to retain full time football at East End. Jim Jefferies had stood down in December, John Potter will now continue in his contracted role as Head Coach. Neil McCann decided to leave at the end of the season.
10 first team players in contract.
18 in total have left the club. 5 youth players contracted
Anticipated working with 18-20 players in the first team squad next season.
Financial:
Budgeted loss of £250,000 will be on target. League position cost us £50,000.
Lost out on £100,000 by not making third round of Scottish Cup. Centenary Club Lifeline continues to prove a vital role.
Next year - after a full year of running the Club there is a much better understanding of the costs involved. Stressed that supporters are not taken for granted but need to encourage early take up of season tickets, more walk ups, more Centenary Club members. Every supporter can help boost revenue stream.
£56,000 electricity cost for stadium.
New sponsor opportunities will be offered for next season including naming rights for East End Park. Especially important since with less players and less shirt sponsorship opportunities.
What does this mean? We need to continue to engage with supporters make everyone feel that this is their club and act in a dignified and open manner.
Open Day / Kit launch on 5th July at the Glen Pavilion
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