Involve your community, improve ideas and bring people with you.
With another Non-League Day behind us, how can we keep supporters coming back? Relying on a 5-4 epic sounds a little risky, so what simple things can you do that might make a difference? Here are a few ideas…
Give something back. Champion Hill was the place to be over Non-League Day weekend. Dulwich Hamlet‘s ‘pay what you want’ scheme, created a real carnival atmosphere and a bumper gate of almost 3,000 with all profits split between the Robes Project and UK Homes 4 Heroes charities. The following day Fisher FC followed a similar theme offering a discount to supporters who donated money and food to Pecan Foodbank – a group who support vulnerable people in the borough.
Be human. Ever heard the one about the football club Chairman driving the supporter’s bus to the match? Go and watch Hinckley AFC, and you can tell the Chairman what’s good and bad about the club as he drives you the 8 miles to Heather St John where they are ground sharing this season. If the Chairman hasn’t got time to drive the bus, start with ensuring club communications strike the right tone.
Be innovative. Who could resist watching a match from a beach hut? You can combine a passion for the beach and football at Lewes FC for £40. If beach huts aren’t your thing what about an opportunity to be a director for the day; have a think about rewriting the norm to gain some publicity and new supporters.
Finally and perhaps most importantly think about the long term association with your community; be inclusive. Chelmsford City have just undertaken a warts and all club review inviting comment from shareholders and supporters, whereas Dragons fans are being sought out to comment on Wrexham‘s strategic plan for the next 3 years. Involve your community, improve ideas and bring people with you.
At SD Club Development we think your club’s structure is vital to your clubs long term success and development. Head over to www.clubdevelopment.coop or drop us an email to [email protected] to find out more.
