2nd July 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
THE TIME HAS COME FOR THE NATIONAL LEAGUE TO BECOME LEAGUE 3 - GULLS’ BOSS SEEKS CHANGE
Whilst for many of the Yellow Army memories remain raw, and probably will do for some time following the events of the play-off final, as in life football moves on. Stand still and you get overtaken as Gulls’ boss Gary Johnson is fully aware.
It might be the shortest close season ever - pre-season training starts on July 19 - but there are other events away from Plainmoor taking place which could change the way football is run.
Currently the Tracey Crouch Fans-Led Review is in full flow with her team having regular meetings to hear views and case studies from individual non-league clubs’ supporters trusts. TUST has been involved in these meetings contributing to the discussions as this is, as Football Supporters Association (FSA) chair Malcolm Clarke says, “ A big opportunity to do something.”
With Crouch’s interim report scheduled for late July time is of the essence. Club governance and ownership together with supporter engagement are high priorities.
TUST, like every other club’s supporters’ trusts, want to see how football fans can feel really involved and included, for football clubs are the hub of each community offering fans a focus for their mental health and well being.
We hope, with anticipation, that Tracey Crouch’s conclusions will lead to the football pyramid being run in a fairer more proportionate and sustainable way.
But this cannot be the end of the debate. The opportunity is here now for the FA to look at the positioning of the National League.
Don’t forget that for the coming season the NL will have 12 former Football League teams, collectively combining hundreds of years of FL experience each trying to make a return.
So, the time is right for discussion about introducing two automatic places for promotion, plus a third through the play-offs, between the National League and League 2, as the influx of three clubs into League 2 would be refreshing for all.
Or why not go the whole way and see the National League become League 3?
To this end, earlier in the week, the FSA organised an online straw poll to gauge fans’ opinions.
As fans we’re not alone in proposing these changes as Gary Johnson made the same plea in Sunday’s Non-League Paper.
**********
Over the years Mrs Johnson must have prepared numerous, delicious afternoon teas but with husband, Gary, dropping tantalising hints last week, let’s hope whatever was served has persuaded one or more of the prospective players to join Torquay United for the coming campaign. For all football fans, imminent signings are a mixture of speculation and anticipation.
The retained list contained no real surprises but it was a pity the Yellow Army weren’t able to give Liam Davis a fitting farewell after his long journey to overcome injury.
Whilst fans are sorry to lose a favourite player, it clears the way for new recruits. As Johnson says, “ You need to be more competitive year on year to improve the quality of your squad.”
TUST is pleased to announce that this year’s winner of the annual Ian Twitchin Trophy is Sam Sherring for his most appearances. Congratulations to our Bournemouth loanee.
Well done too, to United’s Under-16 team who, after a 4-3 penalty shoot-out, have been crowned the JPL Under-16 National League Champions defeating Kidderminster in the final.
*************
Euros 2020: Italy manager Roberto Mancini spent the entire Italia 90 World Cup on the bench without kicking a ball. In last week’s 1-0 win over Wales, in the 89th minute he brought on his sub keeper so he could be part of the action; in fact, Mancini has used 25 of his 26 man squad.
That’s man management!
Bognor Regis’ Jack Pearce, who has been on the National League board for the past 16 years, has become the new chairman promising more transparency in their decision making, adding,”We’ve got to make the board more accountable to its member clubs.” Time will tell.
Roll on July 7 when the fixtures are released.
***************
Following contributions to last week’s poll there’s going to be a good take-up of season tickets being renewed and full details of prices, with some great offers for 2021-2022, are on the club’s website.
This week what are your thoughts about the structure of the National League? Should it become League 3? Is it time for increasing the number of automatic promotion places as Gary Johnson is advocating?
Send your views to: [email protected] or to Twitter: @FanszoneT
Meanwhile to all the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY
***********************************************************************
RETURN TO STADIUMS SURVEY
The FSA is conducting a short survey on fans' views about the return to stadiums in 2021/22. Complete the questionnaire here;
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/return-to-stadiums
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TUST Updates
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Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
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TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
11th July 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
FANS’ SURVEY SHOWS THERE’S AN APPETITE FOR CHANGES IN THE FOOTBALL PYRAMID
Last week’s lead story in this column - Time has come for National League to become League 3 - featured nationally in Sunday’s Non-League Paper as part of what is likely to be an on-going dialogue about clubs and supporters wanting to revitalise the National League and football in general.
It seems, as a result of national exposure, the ball is rolling on this topic judging by the responses on this column’s Twitter account.
A week ago the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) organised a fans’ straw poll and by the weekend came up with the results: on the question whether the National League should become part of the EFL, 68.9 per cent either agreed somewhat or agreed strongly while 20.7 per cent either disagreed somewhat or disagreed strongly.
The second main question, asking were the NL to become part of the EFL would it be beneficial if they and League 2 formed two regionalised divisions, received 67 per cent either agreeing somewhat or agreeing strongly with 24 per cent disagreeing somewhat or strongly. This version has the attraction of reducing travelling and potentially overnight hotel costs.
At last week’s National League AGM, under new leadership, there was an attempt to show a better relationship between the board and clubs but there’s work to be done.
The headline news was clubs were informed, when discussing the continuing impact of Covid-19, the season will not begin without spectators or suitable grant funding.
Subject to further proposals clubs voted in favour of a salary cap from season 2022-23, probably £900k at Step 1.
Only three teams will be relegated at the end of the season so that the following year the league will revert to twenty four sides. And finally, were the new season not to be completed, contingency plans were being discussed.
***********
Following England’s 4-0 romp in Rome, ‘Football’s Coming Home’ or is it ‘Sweet Caroline’? Both are now favourites, the former more so until a rival came along. Neil Diamond wrote ‘Sweet Caroline’ 52 years ago and for a long time it was believed he did so for President J F Kennedy’s daughter Caroline but Diamond explained recently that whilst writing the lyrics trying to fit a name he saw a magazine with a photo of Caroline and it scanned perfectly.
As we’re all too aware, United adopted using it to great effect recently and hopefully will continue to do so, surprisingly the first time music was routinely played in sporting stadiums was in the 1990s - and one of the first was the Caroline Panthers, an NFL team in North Carolina.
With all eyes on England’s final tonight against Italy, ‘Good times never seemed so good.’
***********
Yellow Army exiles, mostly, cling on to the forlorn hope that live streaming will continue but as spectator restrictions will be lifted from July 19 and, in the light of BT Sport renewing their contract, it’s highly unlikely.
In contrast, the Southern League has signed a ‘multi-year’ deal for its 82 clubs to stream games online allowing clubs to broadcast pay-per-view games live.
With Armani Little and Jake Andrews the latest to sign on the dotted line, adding to those who have already done so, manager Gary Johnson has an established ‘Torquayfied’ group upon which he can build with, we expect, some further additions next week as pre-season training is only 9 days away - the Tea party Two?
**************
TUWFC news: Under manager Grant Fisher, assistant Matt Green and coaches Steve Elswood ( goalkeeping) and Claire Williams (fitness), Torquay United Women have started pre-season training with a number of exciting friendlies against Swansea City, West Bromwich Albion, Yeovil, St Austell and Plymouth Argyle.
The Gulls’ season starts in mid-August in the Women’s FA Cup with their league campaign on September 5 as they target promotion to the FA National League.
************
If you had to choose, is it ‘Football’s coming Home’ or ‘Sweet Caroline’ to sing?
Send your reply to: [email protected] or to Twitter:@FanszoneT
Whichever it is let’s hope we’re singing one or both after tomorrow’s final - come on England.
Meanwhile to the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY.
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
FANS’ SURVEY SHOWS THERE’S AN APPETITE FOR CHANGES IN THE FOOTBALL PYRAMID
Last week’s lead story in this column - Time has come for National League to become League 3 - featured nationally in Sunday’s Non-League Paper as part of what is likely to be an on-going dialogue about clubs and supporters wanting to revitalise the National League and football in general.
It seems, as a result of national exposure, the ball is rolling on this topic judging by the responses on this column’s Twitter account.
A week ago the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) organised a fans’ straw poll and by the weekend came up with the results: on the question whether the National League should become part of the EFL, 68.9 per cent either agreed somewhat or agreed strongly while 20.7 per cent either disagreed somewhat or disagreed strongly.
The second main question, asking were the NL to become part of the EFL would it be beneficial if they and League 2 formed two regionalised divisions, received 67 per cent either agreeing somewhat or agreeing strongly with 24 per cent disagreeing somewhat or strongly. This version has the attraction of reducing travelling and potentially overnight hotel costs.
At last week’s National League AGM, under new leadership, there was an attempt to show a better relationship between the board and clubs but there’s work to be done.
The headline news was clubs were informed, when discussing the continuing impact of Covid-19, the season will not begin without spectators or suitable grant funding.
Subject to further proposals clubs voted in favour of a salary cap from season 2022-23, probably £900k at Step 1.
Only three teams will be relegated at the end of the season so that the following year the league will revert to twenty four sides. And finally, were the new season not to be completed, contingency plans were being discussed.
***********
Following England’s 4-0 romp in Rome, ‘Football’s Coming Home’ or is it ‘Sweet Caroline’? Both are now favourites, the former more so until a rival came along. Neil Diamond wrote ‘Sweet Caroline’ 52 years ago and for a long time it was believed he did so for President J F Kennedy’s daughter Caroline but Diamond explained recently that whilst writing the lyrics trying to fit a name he saw a magazine with a photo of Caroline and it scanned perfectly.
As we’re all too aware, United adopted using it to great effect recently and hopefully will continue to do so, surprisingly the first time music was routinely played in sporting stadiums was in the 1990s - and one of the first was the Caroline Panthers, an NFL team in North Carolina.
With all eyes on England’s final tonight against Italy, ‘Good times never seemed so good.’
***********
Yellow Army exiles, mostly, cling on to the forlorn hope that live streaming will continue but as spectator restrictions will be lifted from July 19 and, in the light of BT Sport renewing their contract, it’s highly unlikely.
In contrast, the Southern League has signed a ‘multi-year’ deal for its 82 clubs to stream games online allowing clubs to broadcast pay-per-view games live.
With Armani Little and Jake Andrews the latest to sign on the dotted line, adding to those who have already done so, manager Gary Johnson has an established ‘Torquayfied’ group upon which he can build with, we expect, some further additions next week as pre-season training is only 9 days away - the Tea party Two?
**************
TUWFC news: Under manager Grant Fisher, assistant Matt Green and coaches Steve Elswood ( goalkeeping) and Claire Williams (fitness), Torquay United Women have started pre-season training with a number of exciting friendlies against Swansea City, West Bromwich Albion, Yeovil, St Austell and Plymouth Argyle.
The Gulls’ season starts in mid-August in the Women’s FA Cup with their league campaign on September 5 as they target promotion to the FA National League.
************
If you had to choose, is it ‘Football’s coming Home’ or ‘Sweet Caroline’ to sing?
Send your reply to: [email protected] or to Twitter:@FanszoneT
Whichever it is let’s hope we’re singing one or both after tomorrow’s final - come on England.
Meanwhile to the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY.
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
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TUST_Official
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- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
18th July 2021
FANS' ZONE
ENGLAND’S EURO PENALTY SHOOT - OUT EXIT BRINGS BACK PAINFUL MEMORIES FOR TORQUAY UNITED FANS
After such a Shaw start in the Euro 2020 final, for Torquay United’s loyal fans, England’s penalty heartbreak - again - will have brought back painful memories from Ashton Gate last month.
To be fair, Italy’s second half performance showed why they have been unbeaten for so long and are the best team in Europe. But as Gary Johnson remarked, you can’t miss three penalties.
Penalty shoot-outs - a lottery? Well, yes they certainly seemed so as United went down 5-4 which compounded the still raw feelings about the two disallowed goals. But actually there may be more to taking them that meets the eye.
It may not be of any consolation but for future reference:
The art of penalty shoot-outs has been the subject of studies with an analysis of all shoot-outs in the World Cup and European Championships finding that after players celebrated with both arms extended their team mates who took the next penalty were twice as likely to score.
When players celebrated with both hands, the next opponent to take a penalty was more than twice as likely to miss.
If a player misses, team mates should rush out to meet him and bring him back into the group - don’t let him walk fifty yards alone.
Apparently, timing is crucial too. When players started their run-up less than one second after the referee blew his whistle, the success rate was 58 per cent, but players who took longer than a second scored 80 per cent of the time. To underline the point, England, in the survey, took the least time after the whistle - 0.28 seconds.
Teams who go first in a shoot-out win 60 per cent of the time, sides which go second seem to struggle with the pressure of constantly needing to score to level - or avoid elimination.
So there you are, penalty shoot-outs clinically analysed or still a lottery? Try explaining all that to United’s and England’s penalty misses.
**************
In England’s Euro 2020 journey to the Final, it’s interesting to learn how Gareth Southgate built up such a special team bonding, keeping all players in the squad included and involved. It helps if you can call upon other celebrities to help you.
Pride of place here goes to Ed Sheeran with his morale-boosting acoustic gig while the players had a barbecue. As Kieran Trippier said, “ The best thing about it was Ed was going from one table to another. We were asking him questions …. you know, it brings you together as players.”
And of course, that ‘old favourite - Smithy’ aka James Corden has also been involved through video-calling Declan Rice with his motivational tips!
Might not quite seem the same but in Gary Johnson, United have their own Mr Motivator.
*************
Last Saturday TUST representatives met with Matt Anthony manager of the Torquay United Inspirations (TUI) and some of his squad at the Paignton Sports Academy hub to officially hand over their new TUST sponsored kits. In the picture above are Robin Causley (vice-chair) on the left, Michel Thomas (chair) in the centre and Rob Burkitt (board member) on the right.
Complete with TUST logo the kit consists of full kit, track suits plus training cones as well as an individual yellow and blue football to help their training at home between organised sessions.
The current TUI squad, of around 30 players with various disabilities, is an integral part of the Torquay United Community Sports Trust who organise the training sessions, managing their matches, 7-a-side with at least A and B teams against other disability teams in the South West, not only involving Plymouth Argyle and Exeter City but also teams from Somerset and Bristol.
It’s good to know that many of these players, along with their friends, will once again soon be able to watch the Gulls at Plainmoor.
**************
The days are now slipping away before pre-season training starts on Monday with the first friendly at Poole Town just over a week away.
With ‘The Three Lions’ back in the Top Ten, it’s looking like a draw between it and ‘Sweet Caroline’ for the nation’s sing along.
Altrincham are urging the National League to allow live streaming despite crowds being back in stadiums. Like many other clubs their virtual ticket sales during lockdown were the equivalent of 60 per cent of their average matchday attendance. Time for a re-think with BT Sport?
Any football thoughts - Torquay or England - send to: [email protected] or to Twitter: @FanszoneT
To all the Yellow Army stay safe, in anticipation of news of at least seven or eight signings due to be announced on Monday.
COYY!
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
FANS' ZONE
ENGLAND’S EURO PENALTY SHOOT - OUT EXIT BRINGS BACK PAINFUL MEMORIES FOR TORQUAY UNITED FANS
After such a Shaw start in the Euro 2020 final, for Torquay United’s loyal fans, England’s penalty heartbreak - again - will have brought back painful memories from Ashton Gate last month.
To be fair, Italy’s second half performance showed why they have been unbeaten for so long and are the best team in Europe. But as Gary Johnson remarked, you can’t miss three penalties.
Penalty shoot-outs - a lottery? Well, yes they certainly seemed so as United went down 5-4 which compounded the still raw feelings about the two disallowed goals. But actually there may be more to taking them that meets the eye.
It may not be of any consolation but for future reference:
The art of penalty shoot-outs has been the subject of studies with an analysis of all shoot-outs in the World Cup and European Championships finding that after players celebrated with both arms extended their team mates who took the next penalty were twice as likely to score.
When players celebrated with both hands, the next opponent to take a penalty was more than twice as likely to miss.
If a player misses, team mates should rush out to meet him and bring him back into the group - don’t let him walk fifty yards alone.
Apparently, timing is crucial too. When players started their run-up less than one second after the referee blew his whistle, the success rate was 58 per cent, but players who took longer than a second scored 80 per cent of the time. To underline the point, England, in the survey, took the least time after the whistle - 0.28 seconds.
Teams who go first in a shoot-out win 60 per cent of the time, sides which go second seem to struggle with the pressure of constantly needing to score to level - or avoid elimination.
So there you are, penalty shoot-outs clinically analysed or still a lottery? Try explaining all that to United’s and England’s penalty misses.
**************
In England’s Euro 2020 journey to the Final, it’s interesting to learn how Gareth Southgate built up such a special team bonding, keeping all players in the squad included and involved. It helps if you can call upon other celebrities to help you.
Pride of place here goes to Ed Sheeran with his morale-boosting acoustic gig while the players had a barbecue. As Kieran Trippier said, “ The best thing about it was Ed was going from one table to another. We were asking him questions …. you know, it brings you together as players.”
And of course, that ‘old favourite - Smithy’ aka James Corden has also been involved through video-calling Declan Rice with his motivational tips!
Might not quite seem the same but in Gary Johnson, United have their own Mr Motivator.
*************
Last Saturday TUST representatives met with Matt Anthony manager of the Torquay United Inspirations (TUI) and some of his squad at the Paignton Sports Academy hub to officially hand over their new TUST sponsored kits. In the picture above are Robin Causley (vice-chair) on the left, Michel Thomas (chair) in the centre and Rob Burkitt (board member) on the right.
Complete with TUST logo the kit consists of full kit, track suits plus training cones as well as an individual yellow and blue football to help their training at home between organised sessions.
The current TUI squad, of around 30 players with various disabilities, is an integral part of the Torquay United Community Sports Trust who organise the training sessions, managing their matches, 7-a-side with at least A and B teams against other disability teams in the South West, not only involving Plymouth Argyle and Exeter City but also teams from Somerset and Bristol.
It’s good to know that many of these players, along with their friends, will once again soon be able to watch the Gulls at Plainmoor.
**************
The days are now slipping away before pre-season training starts on Monday with the first friendly at Poole Town just over a week away.
With ‘The Three Lions’ back in the Top Ten, it’s looking like a draw between it and ‘Sweet Caroline’ for the nation’s sing along.
Altrincham are urging the National League to allow live streaming despite crowds being back in stadiums. Like many other clubs their virtual ticket sales during lockdown were the equivalent of 60 per cent of their average matchday attendance. Time for a re-think with BT Sport?
Any football thoughts - Torquay or England - send to: [email protected] or to Twitter: @FanszoneT
To all the Yellow Army stay safe, in anticipation of news of at least seven or eight signings due to be announced on Monday.
COYY!
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
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TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
23rd July 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
TORQUAY UNITED MANAGER EXCITED BY THE ARRIVAL OF HIS NEW RECRUITS
It might have been the shortest gap between the play-off final and pre-season training, with Gary Johnson managing a week on a cruise liner to recharge his batteries as well as keeping tabs on possible signings, and clearly much has happened.
The result of all this hard work was the drip-feed unveiling of seven new arrivals during Monday.
Two goalkeepers: Marcin Brzozowski (from QPR) and Morecambe’s Mark Halstead; a left-sided centre-back Ali Omar (Barnsley), left-back Dan Martin (Cardiff City), Colchester’s mid-fielder Tom Lapside, winger Keelan O’Connell from Bournemouth with forward Klaidi Lolos (Plymouth Argyle).
The Magnificent Seven? Time will tell and clearly there’s room for more - on loan or otherwise. Johnson is excited about his new recruits with a good balance of youth and experience, especially the ones with EFL games on their cv, some on two year deals.
As the manager says, Torquay is a development club which can give these players the opportunity to enhance their careers.
Looking at some of the signings the so called ‘top clubs’ - Stockport County, Chesterfield, Wrexham and Notts County - have made, ‘splashing the cash’ - it does look as if money is no object to try to buy themselves out of the National League. But part-time Sutton managed pretty well without.
FC Halifax manager, Pete Wild, summed the situation up when he said, “ There’s probably more money flying around our league than the one above.”
Last season’s Covid hit fixture programme, with matches crammed in every few days, was surely a major part of the reason why so many players, in all leagues, suffered injury woes.
So, thank goodness that this year’s fixtures are well spaced out to allow plenty of recovery time between matches.
*************
With no teams coming up from Step 2, newly arrived in the National League come Southend United and Grimsby Town.
Southend, formed in 1906, started life in the Southern League, helping to co-found the Football League’s new Third Division in 1920 where they stayed until relegation in 1966. They reached the dizzy heights of the Championship, but only for one season, in 2006 The Shrimpers have played at their current ground, Roots Hall, since 1955, but under owner, property developer Ron Martin, have plans to re-locate to a site at Fossetts Farm.
Over the years the club has had a number of well known managers: Barry Fry, Peter Taylor, David Webb, Paul Sturrock, Sol Campbell and Bobby Moore. Current boss, in his second spell, is Phil Brown.
After 101 years in the Football League Southend join non-league football. Grimsby Town, founded in 1879, became members of the Football League in 1892 playing at Blundell Park but have plans to re-locate.
This will be Grimsby’s second time in non-league having previously been relegated into what then was the Conference in 2010. They flirted with promotion, reaching the play-off final in 2015 losing a penalty shoot-out to Bristol Rovers in front of a record Wembley crowd of 47,029.
The following year they went one better, defeating Forest Green Rovers 3-1, under Paul Hurst, to clinch a return to the EFL But now they find themselves back in non-league but hopeful of a swift return, once again under Paul Hurst.
Grimsby’s notable managers have included: Bill Shankley, Lawrie McMenemy and Alan Buckley.
As other clubs falling out of the EFL have found, getting back again is not an easy ride so that extra automatic promotion place would help. Let’s hope that those on the National League board are looking at all the recent comments on this subject.
We await the publication of the interim Fans-Led Review report due out before the end of the month.
***************
A regular topic the Yellow Army contact this column about is live streaming which proved so successful last season, it would then be very popular if the National League and BT could work something out.
However, for those who can’t get to Plainmoor the club is live streaming the pre-season matches against Truro City, Plymouth Argyle and Bournemouth.
Seven new signings to be seen in the up-coming pre-season friendlies so let us know your first impressions to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
As always to the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
TORQUAY UNITED MANAGER EXCITED BY THE ARRIVAL OF HIS NEW RECRUITS
It might have been the shortest gap between the play-off final and pre-season training, with Gary Johnson managing a week on a cruise liner to recharge his batteries as well as keeping tabs on possible signings, and clearly much has happened.
The result of all this hard work was the drip-feed unveiling of seven new arrivals during Monday.
Two goalkeepers: Marcin Brzozowski (from QPR) and Morecambe’s Mark Halstead; a left-sided centre-back Ali Omar (Barnsley), left-back Dan Martin (Cardiff City), Colchester’s mid-fielder Tom Lapside, winger Keelan O’Connell from Bournemouth with forward Klaidi Lolos (Plymouth Argyle).
The Magnificent Seven? Time will tell and clearly there’s room for more - on loan or otherwise. Johnson is excited about his new recruits with a good balance of youth and experience, especially the ones with EFL games on their cv, some on two year deals.
As the manager says, Torquay is a development club which can give these players the opportunity to enhance their careers.
Looking at some of the signings the so called ‘top clubs’ - Stockport County, Chesterfield, Wrexham and Notts County - have made, ‘splashing the cash’ - it does look as if money is no object to try to buy themselves out of the National League. But part-time Sutton managed pretty well without.
FC Halifax manager, Pete Wild, summed the situation up when he said, “ There’s probably more money flying around our league than the one above.”
Last season’s Covid hit fixture programme, with matches crammed in every few days, was surely a major part of the reason why so many players, in all leagues, suffered injury woes.
So, thank goodness that this year’s fixtures are well spaced out to allow plenty of recovery time between matches.
*************
With no teams coming up from Step 2, newly arrived in the National League come Southend United and Grimsby Town.
Southend, formed in 1906, started life in the Southern League, helping to co-found the Football League’s new Third Division in 1920 where they stayed until relegation in 1966. They reached the dizzy heights of the Championship, but only for one season, in 2006 The Shrimpers have played at their current ground, Roots Hall, since 1955, but under owner, property developer Ron Martin, have plans to re-locate to a site at Fossetts Farm.
Over the years the club has had a number of well known managers: Barry Fry, Peter Taylor, David Webb, Paul Sturrock, Sol Campbell and Bobby Moore. Current boss, in his second spell, is Phil Brown.
After 101 years in the Football League Southend join non-league football. Grimsby Town, founded in 1879, became members of the Football League in 1892 playing at Blundell Park but have plans to re-locate.
This will be Grimsby’s second time in non-league having previously been relegated into what then was the Conference in 2010. They flirted with promotion, reaching the play-off final in 2015 losing a penalty shoot-out to Bristol Rovers in front of a record Wembley crowd of 47,029.
The following year they went one better, defeating Forest Green Rovers 3-1, under Paul Hurst, to clinch a return to the EFL But now they find themselves back in non-league but hopeful of a swift return, once again under Paul Hurst.
Grimsby’s notable managers have included: Bill Shankley, Lawrie McMenemy and Alan Buckley.
As other clubs falling out of the EFL have found, getting back again is not an easy ride so that extra automatic promotion place would help. Let’s hope that those on the National League board are looking at all the recent comments on this subject.
We await the publication of the interim Fans-Led Review report due out before the end of the month.
***************
A regular topic the Yellow Army contact this column about is live streaming which proved so successful last season, it would then be very popular if the National League and BT could work something out.
However, for those who can’t get to Plainmoor the club is live streaming the pre-season matches against Truro City, Plymouth Argyle and Bournemouth.
Seven new signings to be seen in the up-coming pre-season friendlies so let us know your first impressions to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
As always to the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
-
TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
30th July 2021
TICKETING ARRANGEMENTS
In light of numerous concerns raised by supporters on forums and social media and to TUST board members in person at Tuesday’s match, TUST has this week written to the Club’s directors asking them to reconsider the policy of tickets having to be purchased in advance with a deadline one hour before kick-off.
Not providing an opportunity for fans to pay on the gate with card or even cash has a number of implications and it is clear that many supporters are not aware of the requirement. It is also potentially discriminatory. We will provide further details of our request and the Club’s response when we receive it.
TICKETING ARRANGEMENTS
In light of numerous concerns raised by supporters on forums and social media and to TUST board members in person at Tuesday’s match, TUST has this week written to the Club’s directors asking them to reconsider the policy of tickets having to be purchased in advance with a deadline one hour before kick-off.
Not providing an opportunity for fans to pay on the gate with card or even cash has a number of implications and it is clear that many supporters are not aware of the requirement. It is also potentially discriminatory. We will provide further details of our request and the Club’s response when we receive it.
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
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TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
30th July 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
GARY JOHNSON’S PLEA FOR REFORM WINS SUPPORT - DOOR IS OPEN FOR CHANGES
Last Thursday Tracey Crouch MP, chair of the Fan-Led Review, published her interim report following over 100 hours of evidence from over 130 supporters’ groups plus the results of a survey which had in excess of 16,000 responses.
The report itemises a number of recommendations: to introduce an Independent Regulator for English football to oversee a new club licensing system to improve the standard of ownership across the game; legislation to make supporter engagement mandatory; a ‘Golden Share’ for fans, giving veto powers over reserved items such as club badges, location, colours and competitions; enhance the existing legal provision for Assets of Community Value and stricter financial oversight.
“ They didn’t heed the warnings,” says Crouch as she criticises all the current football authorities for failing to carry out reforms by now.
Regular readers of this column will have read in recent weeks support for Torquay United’s manager’s plea for reform in the National League set up, as Gary Johnson advocates the National League being part of the EFL.
He and TUST can take heart from further recommendations from Crouch’s report: “meaningful discussions” should take place between the EFL and National League to absorb the top National League into the EFL.
In addition she recommends “urgent reform” of the National League Board removing club directors, replacing them with independent directors as well as re-assessing voting structures. The current board is made up of directors / officials from Aldershot, Bognor Regis, Chesterfield, Dagenham & Redbridge, Gateshead, Hampton & Richmond, Solihull Moors and Stockport County.
And another recommendation that could be of interest to United owner Clarke Osborne is, whether he decides either to keep Plainmoor or build a new stadium, Crouch would like to see the removal of barriers in lower divisions, in order to maximise revenue, to allow clubs in League 2 to operate all weather pitches.
Increasing revenue streams all year round, not just on match days, is what clubs like Torquay United have been crying out for so an artificial pitch could be a start.
What is clear from this report is that Crouch wants to ensure that fan engagement and influence is an important part of the game’s governance at all levels in the future.
The final report is due out in the autumn, meanwhile it would be good to know that the National League, under its new chairman, will be busy.
*************
Around 75% of supporters will be returning to watch their teams, 65% were ‘excited’ about doing so, with only 23% ‘apprehensive’, according to a recent survey carried out by the Football Supporters’ Association.
Those returning to stadiums are doing so because they want to get life back to normal, financially support their club and local businesses. Also they missed meeting friends and celebrating together.
The survey also asked about the main safety features that would make them feel more comfortable: the availability of hand sanitiser, contactless payments, clubs publishing their risk assessments and hygiene procedures, social distancing in queues.
Torquay United’s comprehensive Return of Supporters’ Code of Conduct covers all these and more.
***********
Last week’s Yellow Army podcast had a brief chat about goalkeeper’s gloves, so here’s an odd fact:
When was the last time a top flight keeper played without gloves? Answer: in Portugal’s penalty shoot out with England in Euro 2004, Ricardo took them off to face Darius Vassell’s spot kick. Not only did he save the penalty bare-handed, he then stepped up to smash Portugal’s next kick past David James to win the match.
************
Gary Johnson thanked the travelling Yellow Army for being at Poole Town on Saturday to welcome the new players who had a good workout in the first pre-season friendly in a 2-0 win, amazingly only 34 days after that match at Ashton Gate.
He was even more delighted to see over 950 on Tuesday night to see a 3-0 win over Truro City although he wasn’t happy with what he described as a ‘leggy’ performance.
Saturday’s match against Plymouth Argyle is likely to be a sterner test. Included in their squad are both Ryan Law and Adam Randell.
Which new player has caught your eye? Who will be a fan favourite? Send your choice to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
To all the Yellow Army enjoy your return to Plainmoor - stay safe.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
GARY JOHNSON’S PLEA FOR REFORM WINS SUPPORT - DOOR IS OPEN FOR CHANGES
Last Thursday Tracey Crouch MP, chair of the Fan-Led Review, published her interim report following over 100 hours of evidence from over 130 supporters’ groups plus the results of a survey which had in excess of 16,000 responses.
The report itemises a number of recommendations: to introduce an Independent Regulator for English football to oversee a new club licensing system to improve the standard of ownership across the game; legislation to make supporter engagement mandatory; a ‘Golden Share’ for fans, giving veto powers over reserved items such as club badges, location, colours and competitions; enhance the existing legal provision for Assets of Community Value and stricter financial oversight.
“ They didn’t heed the warnings,” says Crouch as she criticises all the current football authorities for failing to carry out reforms by now.
Regular readers of this column will have read in recent weeks support for Torquay United’s manager’s plea for reform in the National League set up, as Gary Johnson advocates the National League being part of the EFL.
He and TUST can take heart from further recommendations from Crouch’s report: “meaningful discussions” should take place between the EFL and National League to absorb the top National League into the EFL.
In addition she recommends “urgent reform” of the National League Board removing club directors, replacing them with independent directors as well as re-assessing voting structures. The current board is made up of directors / officials from Aldershot, Bognor Regis, Chesterfield, Dagenham & Redbridge, Gateshead, Hampton & Richmond, Solihull Moors and Stockport County.
And another recommendation that could be of interest to United owner Clarke Osborne is, whether he decides either to keep Plainmoor or build a new stadium, Crouch would like to see the removal of barriers in lower divisions, in order to maximise revenue, to allow clubs in League 2 to operate all weather pitches.
Increasing revenue streams all year round, not just on match days, is what clubs like Torquay United have been crying out for so an artificial pitch could be a start.
What is clear from this report is that Crouch wants to ensure that fan engagement and influence is an important part of the game’s governance at all levels in the future.
The final report is due out in the autumn, meanwhile it would be good to know that the National League, under its new chairman, will be busy.
*************
Around 75% of supporters will be returning to watch their teams, 65% were ‘excited’ about doing so, with only 23% ‘apprehensive’, according to a recent survey carried out by the Football Supporters’ Association.
Those returning to stadiums are doing so because they want to get life back to normal, financially support their club and local businesses. Also they missed meeting friends and celebrating together.
The survey also asked about the main safety features that would make them feel more comfortable: the availability of hand sanitiser, contactless payments, clubs publishing their risk assessments and hygiene procedures, social distancing in queues.
Torquay United’s comprehensive Return of Supporters’ Code of Conduct covers all these and more.
***********
Last week’s Yellow Army podcast had a brief chat about goalkeeper’s gloves, so here’s an odd fact:
When was the last time a top flight keeper played without gloves? Answer: in Portugal’s penalty shoot out with England in Euro 2004, Ricardo took them off to face Darius Vassell’s spot kick. Not only did he save the penalty bare-handed, he then stepped up to smash Portugal’s next kick past David James to win the match.
************
Gary Johnson thanked the travelling Yellow Army for being at Poole Town on Saturday to welcome the new players who had a good workout in the first pre-season friendly in a 2-0 win, amazingly only 34 days after that match at Ashton Gate.
He was even more delighted to see over 950 on Tuesday night to see a 3-0 win over Truro City although he wasn’t happy with what he described as a ‘leggy’ performance.
Saturday’s match against Plymouth Argyle is likely to be a sterner test. Included in their squad are both Ryan Law and Adam Randell.
Which new player has caught your eye? Who will be a fan favourite? Send your choice to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
To all the Yellow Army enjoy your return to Plainmoor - stay safe.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
-
TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
6th August 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
HAVE BOOTS WILL TRAVEL AS PLAYERS TRY TO WIN A CONTRACT
A few of the new Torquay United recruits might have had a nervous weekend following Gary Johnson’s post match comments saying he’ll be sitting down with them, as he explained, “ To show them how effective their game can be.”
So, what is there to be read into a pre-season friendly? United, due to circumstances not of their making, found themselves with only 34 days rest since a competitive match. And here they were just ten days into training - with seven new players plus trialists - facing local rivals Plymouth Argyle whose preparations are match ready for Saturday’s opening League 1 season.
It was a tough ask in front of an impressive Plainmoor crowd of 2356 and to be fair the Gulls started brightly until Ali Omar went off. His no nonsense defending and partnership with the ever impressive Joe Lewis upset the balance at the back after his departure.
It’s still early days in United’s preparations with the likelihood there will be further additions, maybe a player or two from Plymouth seen on Saturday for Johnson says he’s still building the squad.
Pre-season is a testing time for managers and players, for different reasons. For a manager ‘Have I brought in the right players?’ and for players ‘Have I impressed enough to get a starting place?’
But for a trialist it must be a real challenge. More than likely released by their previous club, the player has to take his chances, packing his bags, travelling to somewhere new, joining in with the training sessions and then, if lucky, getting half a game in a friendly And of course fans are trying to work out who you are in Guess the Player.
It’s not all glamour being a professional footballer. For those seeking a contract it’s a case of have boots will travel.
************
As of last week clubs, including United, have had to implement new guidance about heading protocols. Over the past few months this column has written about the research looking into the connection between heading a football and, sadly, a number of former players developing dementia.
The FA have now introduced heading guidance across every level of the professional and amateur game from the start of the season. The new guidance, specifically focused on training sessions where the majority of heading occurs, covers all levels of men’s and women’s football having been agreed with all the relevant football bodies.
It is recommended that a maximum of ten higher force headers - defined as headers following long passes (more than 35m) or from crosses, corners, free-kicks - are carried out in any training week.
Club staff will be encouraged to work with players following a match to ensure they have adequate time to recover from their heading exposure.
***********
With Covid restrictions relaxed and away supporters inside Plainmoor for the first time for a long while it was good to see Saturday’s attendance.
However, there have been numerous concerns raised by supporters following the club’s new ticketing arrangements. In particular the policy of tickets having to be purchased in advance with a deadline of one hour before kick-off as well as no cash or card payments at the turnstiles.
TUST has been in contact with the club’s directors to ask them to reconsider.
Of course having a season ticket is a solution for those who can afford one. A National League survey of adult prices shows the most expensive being a whopping £420 to watch Kings Lynn, £400 at Notts County followed by Barnet’s £384 and Stockport County’s £380. United charge £360 but the cheapest are Solihull Moors at £195 with the lowest Eastleigh asking only £180.
**********
Who cannot fail to be proud of our wonderful Olympic swimmers? Four gold, three silver and bronze medals? We’ve learnt more about taekwondo and trampolining but surely the one spellbinding event has been BMX - who thought you could do that with a bike!
Catching up with news of ex-Gulls, Kyle Cameron has been named as Notts County’s captain; Andrew Nelson is to be offered a contract at Darlington and Myles Anderson joins Hampton and Richmond.
There was a red card for Lucas Covolan in Port Vale’s 1-0 friendly win over Chesterfield while Benji Kimpioka got his marching orders in a Sunderland pre-season match.
***********
United were in action again on Tuesday at Tiverton and after the match Johnson confirmed that the night’s two goals goalscorer was indeed Dan Holman, his former Cheltenham Town striker.
From early Yellow Army reaction Ali Omar is on his way to becoming a fan favourite - thank you for sending in your choices.
This week it’s Three Word Fun, send in your three words to describe your hopes for the season to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
To all the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
HAVE BOOTS WILL TRAVEL AS PLAYERS TRY TO WIN A CONTRACT
A few of the new Torquay United recruits might have had a nervous weekend following Gary Johnson’s post match comments saying he’ll be sitting down with them, as he explained, “ To show them how effective their game can be.”
So, what is there to be read into a pre-season friendly? United, due to circumstances not of their making, found themselves with only 34 days rest since a competitive match. And here they were just ten days into training - with seven new players plus trialists - facing local rivals Plymouth Argyle whose preparations are match ready for Saturday’s opening League 1 season.
It was a tough ask in front of an impressive Plainmoor crowd of 2356 and to be fair the Gulls started brightly until Ali Omar went off. His no nonsense defending and partnership with the ever impressive Joe Lewis upset the balance at the back after his departure.
It’s still early days in United’s preparations with the likelihood there will be further additions, maybe a player or two from Plymouth seen on Saturday for Johnson says he’s still building the squad.
Pre-season is a testing time for managers and players, for different reasons. For a manager ‘Have I brought in the right players?’ and for players ‘Have I impressed enough to get a starting place?’
But for a trialist it must be a real challenge. More than likely released by their previous club, the player has to take his chances, packing his bags, travelling to somewhere new, joining in with the training sessions and then, if lucky, getting half a game in a friendly And of course fans are trying to work out who you are in Guess the Player.
It’s not all glamour being a professional footballer. For those seeking a contract it’s a case of have boots will travel.
************
As of last week clubs, including United, have had to implement new guidance about heading protocols. Over the past few months this column has written about the research looking into the connection between heading a football and, sadly, a number of former players developing dementia.
The FA have now introduced heading guidance across every level of the professional and amateur game from the start of the season. The new guidance, specifically focused on training sessions where the majority of heading occurs, covers all levels of men’s and women’s football having been agreed with all the relevant football bodies.
It is recommended that a maximum of ten higher force headers - defined as headers following long passes (more than 35m) or from crosses, corners, free-kicks - are carried out in any training week.
Club staff will be encouraged to work with players following a match to ensure they have adequate time to recover from their heading exposure.
***********
With Covid restrictions relaxed and away supporters inside Plainmoor for the first time for a long while it was good to see Saturday’s attendance.
However, there have been numerous concerns raised by supporters following the club’s new ticketing arrangements. In particular the policy of tickets having to be purchased in advance with a deadline of one hour before kick-off as well as no cash or card payments at the turnstiles.
TUST has been in contact with the club’s directors to ask them to reconsider.
Of course having a season ticket is a solution for those who can afford one. A National League survey of adult prices shows the most expensive being a whopping £420 to watch Kings Lynn, £400 at Notts County followed by Barnet’s £384 and Stockport County’s £380. United charge £360 but the cheapest are Solihull Moors at £195 with the lowest Eastleigh asking only £180.
**********
Who cannot fail to be proud of our wonderful Olympic swimmers? Four gold, three silver and bronze medals? We’ve learnt more about taekwondo and trampolining but surely the one spellbinding event has been BMX - who thought you could do that with a bike!
Catching up with news of ex-Gulls, Kyle Cameron has been named as Notts County’s captain; Andrew Nelson is to be offered a contract at Darlington and Myles Anderson joins Hampton and Richmond.
There was a red card for Lucas Covolan in Port Vale’s 1-0 friendly win over Chesterfield while Benji Kimpioka got his marching orders in a Sunderland pre-season match.
***********
United were in action again on Tuesday at Tiverton and after the match Johnson confirmed that the night’s two goals goalscorer was indeed Dan Holman, his former Cheltenham Town striker.
From early Yellow Army reaction Ali Omar is on his way to becoming a fan favourite - thank you for sending in your choices.
This week it’s Three Word Fun, send in your three words to describe your hopes for the season to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
To all the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
-
TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
7th August 2021
NEW TICKETING ARRANGEMENTS
TUST wrote to the club the day after the first home friendly against Truro to raise members’ concerns about this issue. We wrote:
‘There is a growing unrest about the club’s decisions regarding its ticketing arrangements for entry into the stadium. Whilst this may only affect a minority, nevertheless it is important that you are made aware because putting off supporters from attending cannot be in the club’s interest.
Seeing the new system in operation last night we feel we should draw your attention to these observations and comments from a number of supporters who were at the ground.
These are two examples:
One with learning difficulties, but independent, arrived after 6.45pm and was dismayed to find he couldn’t gain admittance. He was advised to go to the ticket office where he queued, eventually being allowed to buy a ticket.
A second person, an elderly season ticket holder, also arrived after 6.45pm unaware of the new policy and again was allowed to purchase a ticket after being directed to the ticket office.
Whilst acknowledging both were eventually able to watch the match, having problems doing so were surely not the image the club would want.
The club should also be concerned that a number of people, some holiday makers and supporters, were seen walking away on hearing there were no more ticket sales after the 6.45 pm deadline.
We applaud the club’s stance on supporters’ safe return to Plainmoor with its comprehensive Code of Conduct and whilst accepting contactless payments are a sign of the times, we ask, on behalf of our members, the club reconsiders its ticket policy.
We ask the club to reconsider the ‘ one hour before kick off’ deadline - there is a National League club which has a late entry policy allowing admittance even after half-time.
Could not some turnstile operators have hand held card readers? For those who only have cash can they still buy a ticket?
For a number their match day experience was spoilt by the confusion and difficulty in obtaining entry when the club’s purpose is engaging with its fan base and being the hub of the community.
It may be too late for Saturday’s visit of Plymouth Argyle but there are likely to be more turning up who will be unaware they will not be able to gain entry.
There has been much to praise the club for in recent times on and off the pitch but on this ticketing issue we do hope you will have another look.’
TUST has now received the following response from the club’s directors:
‘The health and safety of all our players, staff, supporters and community is the most important thing for the Board. TUST members have acknowledged that during COVID-19 Plainmoor was a safe place to be at. The Club has worked very closely with Torbay Council and the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) to ensure every stakeholder of the Club is safe, and this approach will not be compromised, which I am sure you will be in full agreement with.
Last season we invested in a new online ticketing system platform, to enable details for track and trace to be obtained, tickets had to be purchased online, or over the phone for all the games, with the turnstiles being cashless. This was in the interests of the Club, the staff, the supporters and the community. This ensured that there was not long queues at turnstiles, as supporters just showed their QR code, and were scanned into the ground, so it improved their matchday experience. We received great feedback from Council representatives, supporters and TUST for providing a safe environment during COVID-19. A Pandemic that has not disappeared.
Due to the positive feedback we had, and in the interests of public health, the Club in consultation with the Safety Advisory Group, made the decision to remain with cashless turnstiles in the best interests of all stakeholders. Tickets are available online, or over the phone, or on the day from the ticket office up to an hour before kick-off, so there is no discrimination.
We believe that this decision does not deter casual supporters, as on the day supporters can order tickets online, or in person at the ticket office, up to an hour before kick-off, if a supporter wants to go and only decides on the day then they can purchase tickets. Therefore, if someone is in a hotel in the town centre, they can purchase a ticket online and then come to the ground 10 minutes before kick-off. The majority of hotels in the bay, are booked online, and it is very pleasing to see that the majority are full. When booking a hotel or restaurant or going to an event, the majority plan and book in advance, in order to avoid disappointment, demonstrating that online booking is the new way
We have invested in infrastructure around all turnstiles, in order to provide the most efficient and safest environment for entering the ground. To be able to purchase a ticket by cash or by credit card at the turnstiles does not allow the Club to obtain the information they require for track and trace, therefore, putting at risk our staff, are valued supporters and the community. It also reduces the risk of close contact in queuing in the last hour, as well as reducing any likelihood of crowd disturbance.
The Safety Advisory Group, as you know includes the local emergency services, and we work together in order to protect and look after our local community. During the past 12 months, the Club had been under pressure by our supporters to relax COVID-19 measures in the ground, such as the mandatory wearing of face coverings, however, we stuck to our agreed protocols in the best interest of all concerned and the Torbay community, all the decisions made by the Club in consultation with SAG are in the best interests of the Torbay community, not ourselves, and we don’t believe this approach should be compromised.
I trust this explains the match day ticket protocols we have put in place.’
Whilst TUST welcomes and fully supports the Club’s commitment to the health and safety of all concerned, it is disappointing that it is unwilling to reconsider the one hour cut off for ticket office sales. Even at today's match against Chippenham we were aware of a number of supporters who were disappointed to be turned away after 2pm. We have visited many clubs in the past where supporters are required to buy a ticket at a remote office rather than on the turnstiles but this option has always been available right up to kick off.
We welcome the modernisation of the Club’s customer services but remain concerned that the ticketing policy may exclude those who do not use the internet or social media. These include some of United’s oldest and longest standing supporters.
NEW TICKETING ARRANGEMENTS
TUST wrote to the club the day after the first home friendly against Truro to raise members’ concerns about this issue. We wrote:
‘There is a growing unrest about the club’s decisions regarding its ticketing arrangements for entry into the stadium. Whilst this may only affect a minority, nevertheless it is important that you are made aware because putting off supporters from attending cannot be in the club’s interest.
Seeing the new system in operation last night we feel we should draw your attention to these observations and comments from a number of supporters who were at the ground.
These are two examples:
One with learning difficulties, but independent, arrived after 6.45pm and was dismayed to find he couldn’t gain admittance. He was advised to go to the ticket office where he queued, eventually being allowed to buy a ticket.
A second person, an elderly season ticket holder, also arrived after 6.45pm unaware of the new policy and again was allowed to purchase a ticket after being directed to the ticket office.
Whilst acknowledging both were eventually able to watch the match, having problems doing so were surely not the image the club would want.
The club should also be concerned that a number of people, some holiday makers and supporters, were seen walking away on hearing there were no more ticket sales after the 6.45 pm deadline.
We applaud the club’s stance on supporters’ safe return to Plainmoor with its comprehensive Code of Conduct and whilst accepting contactless payments are a sign of the times, we ask, on behalf of our members, the club reconsiders its ticket policy.
We ask the club to reconsider the ‘ one hour before kick off’ deadline - there is a National League club which has a late entry policy allowing admittance even after half-time.
Could not some turnstile operators have hand held card readers? For those who only have cash can they still buy a ticket?
For a number their match day experience was spoilt by the confusion and difficulty in obtaining entry when the club’s purpose is engaging with its fan base and being the hub of the community.
It may be too late for Saturday’s visit of Plymouth Argyle but there are likely to be more turning up who will be unaware they will not be able to gain entry.
There has been much to praise the club for in recent times on and off the pitch but on this ticketing issue we do hope you will have another look.’
TUST has now received the following response from the club’s directors:
‘The health and safety of all our players, staff, supporters and community is the most important thing for the Board. TUST members have acknowledged that during COVID-19 Plainmoor was a safe place to be at. The Club has worked very closely with Torbay Council and the Safety Advisory Group (SAG) to ensure every stakeholder of the Club is safe, and this approach will not be compromised, which I am sure you will be in full agreement with.
Last season we invested in a new online ticketing system platform, to enable details for track and trace to be obtained, tickets had to be purchased online, or over the phone for all the games, with the turnstiles being cashless. This was in the interests of the Club, the staff, the supporters and the community. This ensured that there was not long queues at turnstiles, as supporters just showed their QR code, and were scanned into the ground, so it improved their matchday experience. We received great feedback from Council representatives, supporters and TUST for providing a safe environment during COVID-19. A Pandemic that has not disappeared.
Due to the positive feedback we had, and in the interests of public health, the Club in consultation with the Safety Advisory Group, made the decision to remain with cashless turnstiles in the best interests of all stakeholders. Tickets are available online, or over the phone, or on the day from the ticket office up to an hour before kick-off, so there is no discrimination.
We believe that this decision does not deter casual supporters, as on the day supporters can order tickets online, or in person at the ticket office, up to an hour before kick-off, if a supporter wants to go and only decides on the day then they can purchase tickets. Therefore, if someone is in a hotel in the town centre, they can purchase a ticket online and then come to the ground 10 minutes before kick-off. The majority of hotels in the bay, are booked online, and it is very pleasing to see that the majority are full. When booking a hotel or restaurant or going to an event, the majority plan and book in advance, in order to avoid disappointment, demonstrating that online booking is the new way
We have invested in infrastructure around all turnstiles, in order to provide the most efficient and safest environment for entering the ground. To be able to purchase a ticket by cash or by credit card at the turnstiles does not allow the Club to obtain the information they require for track and trace, therefore, putting at risk our staff, are valued supporters and the community. It also reduces the risk of close contact in queuing in the last hour, as well as reducing any likelihood of crowd disturbance.
The Safety Advisory Group, as you know includes the local emergency services, and we work together in order to protect and look after our local community. During the past 12 months, the Club had been under pressure by our supporters to relax COVID-19 measures in the ground, such as the mandatory wearing of face coverings, however, we stuck to our agreed protocols in the best interest of all concerned and the Torbay community, all the decisions made by the Club in consultation with SAG are in the best interests of the Torbay community, not ourselves, and we don’t believe this approach should be compromised.
I trust this explains the match day ticket protocols we have put in place.’
Whilst TUST welcomes and fully supports the Club’s commitment to the health and safety of all concerned, it is disappointing that it is unwilling to reconsider the one hour cut off for ticket office sales. Even at today's match against Chippenham we were aware of a number of supporters who were disappointed to be turned away after 2pm. We have visited many clubs in the past where supporters are required to buy a ticket at a remote office rather than on the turnstiles but this option has always been available right up to kick off.
We welcome the modernisation of the Club’s customer services but remain concerned that the ticketing policy may exclude those who do not use the internet or social media. These include some of United’s oldest and longest standing supporters.
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
-
TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
SHERRING RETURNS TO PLAINMOOR!
Sam Sherring returns to Plainmoor this evening with the AFC Bournemouth U-23 squad.
This provides an opportunity for him to be presented with the TUST sponsored Ian Twitchin Trophy, awarded in Ian's memory to the player making the most appearances during the season. Sam pipped Connor Lemonheigh-Evans and Adam Randell to the 2020-21 award on a tie-breaker decided by most minutes on the pitch.
With apologies for the short notice but the arrangements have only today been confirmed for the presentation to take place in the Gulls Nest at 7pm.
All welcome!
Sam Sherring returns to Plainmoor this evening with the AFC Bournemouth U-23 squad.
This provides an opportunity for him to be presented with the TUST sponsored Ian Twitchin Trophy, awarded in Ian's memory to the player making the most appearances during the season. Sam pipped Connor Lemonheigh-Evans and Adam Randell to the 2020-21 award on a tie-breaker decided by most minutes on the pitch.
With apologies for the short notice but the arrangements have only today been confirmed for the presentation to take place in the Gulls Nest at 7pm.
All welcome!
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
-
Forest gull
- Hat Trick Hero
- Posts: 914
- Joined: 07 Dec 2011, 12:36
- Favourite player: Steve Cooper
- Location: Forest of Dean
- Watches from: Pop side
Should have made him sign for it, on a new contract.
-
TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
13th August 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
NEW ADDITIONS ADD COMPETITION TO UNITED’S SQUAD
‘Torquay: Naturally Inspiring’ is one of the signs drivers pass on their journey into Torbay but after three improving performances inside the past week - a 3-1 win at Tiverton, 3-0 on Saturday against Chippenham and a very one-sided affair against a young, inexperienced Bournemouth side - they should follow the brown signs with a football pointing them towards Plainmoor.
For slowly but surely United boss Gary Johnson is putting together a competitive squad with three further additions signed. Football fans like nothing more than a player taking on defenders and possessing a powerful shot - and ex- Cheltenham hotshot Dan Holman fits the bill and against Chippenham he might have had a hat-trick but for the thickness of the crossbar adding two more against Bournemouth’s youngsters.
Johnson is clearly no fan of the term ‘trialist’, preferring ‘player’ but whichever he may have struck gold, for on Saturday Player A - those who went to Tiverton in mid-week and saw Gabby Rogers score a wonder goal will know he’s the same player - scored a 30 yard screamer. Torquay born Rogers was part of the club’s youth academy before it was shut down; he moved across to Exeter City’s before joining Yeovil Town in 2016. He made his Yeovil debut as a sub in an EFL cup game against Aston Villa before a loan move to Salisbury. Back with Yeovil he scored the only goal in an FA Cup win against Bromley.
After leaving Yeovil Rogers has appeared in friendlies for Willand Rovers and more recently Tiverton. He’s certainly an exciting prospect.
Yellow Army exiles in the UK and abroad will have been dismayed when they learnt that non-league clubs will be unable to stream 3pm kick-offs for most of this season as clubs have been told that ‘blocked hours’ for streaming matches in the National League system - Steps 1-6 - will be reintroduced this season.
However, the ‘blocked hours’ have gaps and opportunities to live stream and the FA has issued a statement confirming that clubs can offer this extremely popular service outside the ‘blocked hours’.
To provide the coverage last season clubs would have committed a significant financial outlay and, with presumably the infrastructure still in place, cameras, programming, it would be easy enough to provide the service when allowed.
Assuming Tuesday evening matches avoid the ‘blocked hours’ the following home matches could be streamed: Woking, Dover, Yeovil Town, Dagenham & Redbridge, Solihull Moors, Boreham Wood, Aldershot, Weymouth and Eastleigh. There could be more to watch as away fixtures if other clubs take advantage.
Think how much extra income could be generated.
Tokyo 2020 has concluded but we are left with memories of inspirational performances from our medal winners - guess we will each have our special moments and events to remember. BMX was a standout with spectacular 360 degree jumps and GB participants had a useful advantage. For when the plans were released earlier in the year of the Tokyo Ariaker Urban Sports Park a replica was built in four weeks in May and early June, at a cost of £500,000, in a secret warehouse in Telford.
However, how many have now taken up knitting? Not only did Tom Daley win a gold for diving but also he took pool side his wool and knitting needles with his routine: dive, knit, dive, knit, dive, knit, dive, knit, dive. Inspiring.
In National League news, newly installed Notts County skipper, Kyle Cameron, may just have spiced up United’s first away fixture as he’s quoted as saying he’s made a step up, adding, “ …it’s a bigger club, a bit of a bigger fan base.”
National League clubs have been voting on whether there should be seven substitutes this season and the result is expected this week.
Ex- Gull Billy Kee has a one year contract at Coalville Town while Nathaniel Rowe-Turner has joined Stourbridge.
Good news that the Premier League are funding the provision of defibrillators for more than 2,000 grassroots clubs, with the aim of helping save the life of someone experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest.
Well done to Bolton Wanderers Supporters’ Trust to become the latest supporter group to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the club.
What are your hopes for the season Three Word Fun continues for another week, can you better ‘Mid Table Security’, ‘Up for Promotion’ or ‘Fortress Plainmoor Please’? Send yours to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
With the first league fixture coming on Saturday week to all the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
NEW ADDITIONS ADD COMPETITION TO UNITED’S SQUAD
‘Torquay: Naturally Inspiring’ is one of the signs drivers pass on their journey into Torbay but after three improving performances inside the past week - a 3-1 win at Tiverton, 3-0 on Saturday against Chippenham and a very one-sided affair against a young, inexperienced Bournemouth side - they should follow the brown signs with a football pointing them towards Plainmoor.
For slowly but surely United boss Gary Johnson is putting together a competitive squad with three further additions signed. Football fans like nothing more than a player taking on defenders and possessing a powerful shot - and ex- Cheltenham hotshot Dan Holman fits the bill and against Chippenham he might have had a hat-trick but for the thickness of the crossbar adding two more against Bournemouth’s youngsters.
Johnson is clearly no fan of the term ‘trialist’, preferring ‘player’ but whichever he may have struck gold, for on Saturday Player A - those who went to Tiverton in mid-week and saw Gabby Rogers score a wonder goal will know he’s the same player - scored a 30 yard screamer. Torquay born Rogers was part of the club’s youth academy before it was shut down; he moved across to Exeter City’s before joining Yeovil Town in 2016. He made his Yeovil debut as a sub in an EFL cup game against Aston Villa before a loan move to Salisbury. Back with Yeovil he scored the only goal in an FA Cup win against Bromley.
After leaving Yeovil Rogers has appeared in friendlies for Willand Rovers and more recently Tiverton. He’s certainly an exciting prospect.
Yellow Army exiles in the UK and abroad will have been dismayed when they learnt that non-league clubs will be unable to stream 3pm kick-offs for most of this season as clubs have been told that ‘blocked hours’ for streaming matches in the National League system - Steps 1-6 - will be reintroduced this season.
However, the ‘blocked hours’ have gaps and opportunities to live stream and the FA has issued a statement confirming that clubs can offer this extremely popular service outside the ‘blocked hours’.
To provide the coverage last season clubs would have committed a significant financial outlay and, with presumably the infrastructure still in place, cameras, programming, it would be easy enough to provide the service when allowed.
Assuming Tuesday evening matches avoid the ‘blocked hours’ the following home matches could be streamed: Woking, Dover, Yeovil Town, Dagenham & Redbridge, Solihull Moors, Boreham Wood, Aldershot, Weymouth and Eastleigh. There could be more to watch as away fixtures if other clubs take advantage.
Think how much extra income could be generated.
Tokyo 2020 has concluded but we are left with memories of inspirational performances from our medal winners - guess we will each have our special moments and events to remember. BMX was a standout with spectacular 360 degree jumps and GB participants had a useful advantage. For when the plans were released earlier in the year of the Tokyo Ariaker Urban Sports Park a replica was built in four weeks in May and early June, at a cost of £500,000, in a secret warehouse in Telford.
However, how many have now taken up knitting? Not only did Tom Daley win a gold for diving but also he took pool side his wool and knitting needles with his routine: dive, knit, dive, knit, dive, knit, dive, knit, dive. Inspiring.
In National League news, newly installed Notts County skipper, Kyle Cameron, may just have spiced up United’s first away fixture as he’s quoted as saying he’s made a step up, adding, “ …it’s a bigger club, a bit of a bigger fan base.”
National League clubs have been voting on whether there should be seven substitutes this season and the result is expected this week.
Ex- Gull Billy Kee has a one year contract at Coalville Town while Nathaniel Rowe-Turner has joined Stourbridge.
Good news that the Premier League are funding the provision of defibrillators for more than 2,000 grassroots clubs, with the aim of helping save the life of someone experiencing a sudden cardiac arrest.
Well done to Bolton Wanderers Supporters’ Trust to become the latest supporter group to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the club.
What are your hopes for the season Three Word Fun continues for another week, can you better ‘Mid Table Security’, ‘Up for Promotion’ or ‘Fortress Plainmoor Please’? Send yours to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
With the first league fixture coming on Saturday week to all the Yellow Army stay safe.
COYY
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
-
TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
21st August 2021
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
NATIONAL LEAGUE REACTION TO FAN-LED REVIEW TOO LITTLE TOO LATE
Too little, too late as the National League makes changes in the make-up of its board members in the light of the comments in the interim report from former Sports Minister Tracey Crouch’s damning verdict from her Fan-Led Review.
Citing the need for “urgent reform” Crouch called for the board, currently consisting of seven members from National Premier, North and South clubs with Isthmian League Bognor Regis’s Jack Pearce as chairman, to be replaced with independent representatives.
And what did they agree at last week’s EGM? The board will now have six members from National League clubs, four from Step 2, two independents plus Pearce. Surely this is paying lip service to the report’s findings.
There’s also annoyance amongst managers too as the proposal to increase substitutes to seven failed with Notts County’s Ian Burchnall leading the way, “ The coaches / managers want to see a more professional set-up but it seems like there are still restraints on that.”
With the Premier League now with nine subs and the EFL with seven, Burchnall revealed that at a managers’ meeting of National League clubs in the week all were in favour of the increase from five to seven yet when it came to the vote seven clubs voted against.
Crouch’s report also called for changes to the voting rights for Step 2 clubs with the EGM agreeing a new structure so that every club will have one vote each. For a resolution to be passed it will need a majority plus a majority from Step 1.
*************************************************************************
In recent weeks United supporters have watched in wonder as National League rivals have splashed the cash on buying their way back into the EFL. By contrast Gary Johnson has used his budget to recruit a mix of experience and youth as owner Clarke Osborne continues his generous funding.
Elsewhere Manchester City broke the transfer record at £100m to prise Jack Grealish from Aston Villa. And what about Lionel Messi’s move to PSG? He’s reportedly on £1m a week - yes, a week. Some of it can be offset from replica shirt sales as, at £100 each, they sell a million a year.
Chesterfield’s recent acquisition of Boreham Wood striker, Kabongo Tshimanga drew this comment from Wood chairman Danny Hunter, “ The fee we had set was a top League 1 or Championship one…..the final fee agreed is an amazing fee for a National League team.”
********************************************************************************
The desire for streaming matches outside the ‘blocked hours’ mentioned in last week’s column continues to be an issue, particularly for Yellow Army exiles in the UK and abroad. TUST has asked the club to look into the possibility. As a result the club has issued a statement explaining the situation and the National League and BT Sport are in discussions.
If Gulls’ fans had a wish list they would like to see Bournemouth defender Sam Sherring back in an 1899 shirt. He is, though, now on a season long loan at League 1 Accrington Stanley. Although recovering from a calf injury Sherring was at Plainmoor last Tuesday to receive his TUST sponsored Ian Twitchin trophy, awarded to the player with the most appearances in the season, pipping Adam Randell and Connor Lemonheigh-Evans by a matter of minutes, from TUST chairman Michel Thomas along with board member Rob Dickinson and former United keeper John Turner.
On the TFF forum there have been some interesting posts about the numbering used for players’ shirts, so here’s a potted shirt history: numbers on shirts were first recorded in 1911 in a match between two sides in Australia while in England it was a game played at Stamford Bridge between Corinthians and a team of amateurs from Football League clubs in 1914.
The numbers were originally used to indicate positions, goalkeeper 1 through to outside left (left winger) 11. The next recorded use of numbers was in 1928 when Chelsea played Swansea City with the Daily Express reporting, “ The 35,000 spectators were able to give credit for each bit of good work to the correct individual because the team were numbered and the large figures in black on white squares enabled each man to be identified without trouble.”
The 1954 World Cup used squad numbers 1-22 for the first time but not becoming compulsory in the Football League until 1999, although some teams were using numbers from 1993, and in the Conference (now the National League) not until 2002.
When substitutes were allowed in 1965, they typically took numbers 12 and 14, leaving out 13 for superstitious reasons. Players are generally not allowed to change numbers during a season but can between seasons.
Did you know that in 2013-14 Harry Kane’s shirt at Spurs was 37, the following season 18 and by 2013 he was number 10?
Names didn’t appear on the back of shirts until 1993 a year after the start of the Premier League.
**************************************************************************
Some ingenious suggestions for Three Word Fun sent in, the best being ‘Gratifying, Fullflling, Sustainable’ (Gulls) from Michel from Torquay.
This week which team is your prediction for the title? Send your choice to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
So, Saturday’s opening fixture is here, get your ticket before 2pm and pack Plainmoor.
To the Yellow Army stay safe and get behind the team for a winning start.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
FANS' ZONE
TUST board member and Supporter Liaison Officer Nick Brodrick's column in this week's Herald Express - updated for the latest news.
NATIONAL LEAGUE REACTION TO FAN-LED REVIEW TOO LITTLE TOO LATE
Too little, too late as the National League makes changes in the make-up of its board members in the light of the comments in the interim report from former Sports Minister Tracey Crouch’s damning verdict from her Fan-Led Review.
Citing the need for “urgent reform” Crouch called for the board, currently consisting of seven members from National Premier, North and South clubs with Isthmian League Bognor Regis’s Jack Pearce as chairman, to be replaced with independent representatives.
And what did they agree at last week’s EGM? The board will now have six members from National League clubs, four from Step 2, two independents plus Pearce. Surely this is paying lip service to the report’s findings.
There’s also annoyance amongst managers too as the proposal to increase substitutes to seven failed with Notts County’s Ian Burchnall leading the way, “ The coaches / managers want to see a more professional set-up but it seems like there are still restraints on that.”
With the Premier League now with nine subs and the EFL with seven, Burchnall revealed that at a managers’ meeting of National League clubs in the week all were in favour of the increase from five to seven yet when it came to the vote seven clubs voted against.
Crouch’s report also called for changes to the voting rights for Step 2 clubs with the EGM agreeing a new structure so that every club will have one vote each. For a resolution to be passed it will need a majority plus a majority from Step 1.
*************************************************************************
In recent weeks United supporters have watched in wonder as National League rivals have splashed the cash on buying their way back into the EFL. By contrast Gary Johnson has used his budget to recruit a mix of experience and youth as owner Clarke Osborne continues his generous funding.
Elsewhere Manchester City broke the transfer record at £100m to prise Jack Grealish from Aston Villa. And what about Lionel Messi’s move to PSG? He’s reportedly on £1m a week - yes, a week. Some of it can be offset from replica shirt sales as, at £100 each, they sell a million a year.
Chesterfield’s recent acquisition of Boreham Wood striker, Kabongo Tshimanga drew this comment from Wood chairman Danny Hunter, “ The fee we had set was a top League 1 or Championship one…..the final fee agreed is an amazing fee for a National League team.”
********************************************************************************
The desire for streaming matches outside the ‘blocked hours’ mentioned in last week’s column continues to be an issue, particularly for Yellow Army exiles in the UK and abroad. TUST has asked the club to look into the possibility. As a result the club has issued a statement explaining the situation and the National League and BT Sport are in discussions.
If Gulls’ fans had a wish list they would like to see Bournemouth defender Sam Sherring back in an 1899 shirt. He is, though, now on a season long loan at League 1 Accrington Stanley. Although recovering from a calf injury Sherring was at Plainmoor last Tuesday to receive his TUST sponsored Ian Twitchin trophy, awarded to the player with the most appearances in the season, pipping Adam Randell and Connor Lemonheigh-Evans by a matter of minutes, from TUST chairman Michel Thomas along with board member Rob Dickinson and former United keeper John Turner.
On the TFF forum there have been some interesting posts about the numbering used for players’ shirts, so here’s a potted shirt history: numbers on shirts were first recorded in 1911 in a match between two sides in Australia while in England it was a game played at Stamford Bridge between Corinthians and a team of amateurs from Football League clubs in 1914.
The numbers were originally used to indicate positions, goalkeeper 1 through to outside left (left winger) 11. The next recorded use of numbers was in 1928 when Chelsea played Swansea City with the Daily Express reporting, “ The 35,000 spectators were able to give credit for each bit of good work to the correct individual because the team were numbered and the large figures in black on white squares enabled each man to be identified without trouble.”
The 1954 World Cup used squad numbers 1-22 for the first time but not becoming compulsory in the Football League until 1999, although some teams were using numbers from 1993, and in the Conference (now the National League) not until 2002.
When substitutes were allowed in 1965, they typically took numbers 12 and 14, leaving out 13 for superstitious reasons. Players are generally not allowed to change numbers during a season but can between seasons.
Did you know that in 2013-14 Harry Kane’s shirt at Spurs was 37, the following season 18 and by 2013 he was number 10?
Names didn’t appear on the back of shirts until 1993 a year after the start of the Premier League.
**************************************************************************
Some ingenious suggestions for Three Word Fun sent in, the best being ‘Gratifying, Fullflling, Sustainable’ (Gulls) from Michel from Torquay.
This week which team is your prediction for the title? Send your choice to: [email protected] or Twitter: @FanszoneT
So, Saturday’s opening fixture is here, get your ticket before 2pm and pack Plainmoor.
To the Yellow Army stay safe and get behind the team for a winning start.
COYY
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
-
TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
25th August 2021
NEWSLETTER - AUGUST 21
CHAIRMAN'S COMMENTS
Dear members and supporters,
I am writing this from bonnie Scotland. I was visiting Campbell castle in the hills and Stirling castle whilst following updates of the match on Saturday, as well as receiving updates from Gulls' supporters and friends.
I had two thoughts about fortresses.... Firstly, on the pitch, 'fortress Plainmoor' was very disappointingly breached. It is early days yet and I am sure that Gary and his team learned a lot from this. They will be working hard to endeavour to put things right!
Secondly, outside the ground, the portcullis to fortress Plainmoor came firmly down around 2pm. TUST has requested that the club reconsider this new deadline for purchasing tickets. Disappointed supporters, families and a tearful child were witnessed walking away from the ground. Change is inevitable, but it seems reasonable to believe that the customer and club's loyal supporters should come first in these considerations.
You can read about all TUST's recent activities in the summary of our latest board meeting in this bulletin. Thank you to everyone on the board and all those members who give their continued and voluntary support on behalf of our club and its community. As you will see below, we are currently looking for new blood to join our board.
COYY!
Michel
Opportunity to join the TUST board!
The TUST board is keen to recruit a new member to complement the existing group of seven who work together effectively as a team. We would be particularly interested to hear from a supporter with marketing or PR skills but this is not essential. More important is someone keen to actively contribute to TUST’s objectives of ensuring the long-term sustainability of our club for the benefit of current and future supporters and the wider community.
We hold monthly board meetings and have a well established e-mail forum for exchanging views and making democratic decisions between meetings. We would particularly welcome expressions of interest from someone who could represent the younger element of our support.
If you are interested or would like an informal chat about this voluntary role, please contact the Secretary at [email protected] in the first instance or approach any of the current TUST board members at Plainmoor on matchdays.
Summary of TUST board meeting held on 16th August.
TUFC
TUST had written to the Club about the new ticketing arrangements, expressing concern that tickets could not be purchased within an hour before kick-off and that many potential attendees were not aware of the new requirements and were being turned away.
After a follow up letter, a detailed response had been received from the Club’s directors and relayed to our members. We had replied with thanks but expressing TUST’s on-going concern that late arrivals could not purchase tickets.
A subsequent request to hold the presentation of the Ian Twitchin Trophy to Sam Sherring during AFC Bournemouth’s U-23 team visit had been accommodated by the Club at short notice. We thank them for enabling the successful event in the Gulls’ Nest.
TUST have also written to the Club asking it to consider livestreaming of matches outside the times blocked by UEFA rules if at all possible as we believe that this would be a popular and profitable service.
Official Supporters’ Club (TUOSC)
We have had initial, informal discussion with representatives of TUOSC and both parties are keen to work together to establish the separate roles of each organisation and areas where they could work collaboratively in the interests of the Club and its supporters.
Torquay United Community Sports Trust (TUCST).
The Chairman advised that he had been in discussion with Matt Anthony (TUCST Manager) about the future of the Senior Gulls. As TUCST were finding it challenging to find the time to continue organising the group, although still keen to support these meetings, he had offered to assist. An open meeting was suggested for all existing and any new senior supporters to discuss what form the group should take in the future. He stressed that the remit of the Senior Gulls covered anyone with an interest in football, not just TUFC. A contribution of £40 from TUST funds to provide refreshments at this meeting was agreed.
Fan-led review / FSA
The interim report produced by Tracey Crouch had been circulated to board members when published at the end of July and comments shared via e-mail. The proposals were all welcomed and supported by TUST. The full report is expected by the end of the year.
AGM
The Secretary advised that this would be held in late October or November and would be a face-to-face meeting but hopefully with an option for members to join via Zoom.
Details to follow.
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
NEWSLETTER - AUGUST 21
CHAIRMAN'S COMMENTS
Dear members and supporters,
I am writing this from bonnie Scotland. I was visiting Campbell castle in the hills and Stirling castle whilst following updates of the match on Saturday, as well as receiving updates from Gulls' supporters and friends.
I had two thoughts about fortresses.... Firstly, on the pitch, 'fortress Plainmoor' was very disappointingly breached. It is early days yet and I am sure that Gary and his team learned a lot from this. They will be working hard to endeavour to put things right!
Secondly, outside the ground, the portcullis to fortress Plainmoor came firmly down around 2pm. TUST has requested that the club reconsider this new deadline for purchasing tickets. Disappointed supporters, families and a tearful child were witnessed walking away from the ground. Change is inevitable, but it seems reasonable to believe that the customer and club's loyal supporters should come first in these considerations.
You can read about all TUST's recent activities in the summary of our latest board meeting in this bulletin. Thank you to everyone on the board and all those members who give their continued and voluntary support on behalf of our club and its community. As you will see below, we are currently looking for new blood to join our board.
COYY!
Michel
Opportunity to join the TUST board!
The TUST board is keen to recruit a new member to complement the existing group of seven who work together effectively as a team. We would be particularly interested to hear from a supporter with marketing or PR skills but this is not essential. More important is someone keen to actively contribute to TUST’s objectives of ensuring the long-term sustainability of our club for the benefit of current and future supporters and the wider community.
We hold monthly board meetings and have a well established e-mail forum for exchanging views and making democratic decisions between meetings. We would particularly welcome expressions of interest from someone who could represent the younger element of our support.
If you are interested or would like an informal chat about this voluntary role, please contact the Secretary at [email protected] in the first instance or approach any of the current TUST board members at Plainmoor on matchdays.
Summary of TUST board meeting held on 16th August.
TUFC
TUST had written to the Club about the new ticketing arrangements, expressing concern that tickets could not be purchased within an hour before kick-off and that many potential attendees were not aware of the new requirements and were being turned away.
After a follow up letter, a detailed response had been received from the Club’s directors and relayed to our members. We had replied with thanks but expressing TUST’s on-going concern that late arrivals could not purchase tickets.
A subsequent request to hold the presentation of the Ian Twitchin Trophy to Sam Sherring during AFC Bournemouth’s U-23 team visit had been accommodated by the Club at short notice. We thank them for enabling the successful event in the Gulls’ Nest.
TUST have also written to the Club asking it to consider livestreaming of matches outside the times blocked by UEFA rules if at all possible as we believe that this would be a popular and profitable service.
Official Supporters’ Club (TUOSC)
We have had initial, informal discussion with representatives of TUOSC and both parties are keen to work together to establish the separate roles of each organisation and areas where they could work collaboratively in the interests of the Club and its supporters.
Torquay United Community Sports Trust (TUCST).
The Chairman advised that he had been in discussion with Matt Anthony (TUCST Manager) about the future of the Senior Gulls. As TUCST were finding it challenging to find the time to continue organising the group, although still keen to support these meetings, he had offered to assist. An open meeting was suggested for all existing and any new senior supporters to discuss what form the group should take in the future. He stressed that the remit of the Senior Gulls covered anyone with an interest in football, not just TUFC. A contribution of £40 from TUST funds to provide refreshments at this meeting was agreed.
Fan-led review / FSA
The interim report produced by Tracey Crouch had been circulated to board members when published at the end of July and comments shared via e-mail. The proposals were all welcomed and supported by TUST. The full report is expected by the end of the year.
AGM
The Secretary advised that this would be held in late October or November and would be a face-to-face meeting but hopefully with an option for members to join via Zoom.
Details to follow.
SUPPORT TUST - SUPPORT YOUR COMMUNITY
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
-
North Curry House
- Skipper
- Posts: 651
- Joined: 09 Feb 2021, 22:26
Senior Gulls should continue, if the present organisers do not want to carry on, then I feel sure others would step up. PLEASE can we arrange meeting, where any problems can be discussed - not just thrown in the long grass. I look forward to receiving notification of the meeting.
-
TUST_Official
- First Regular
- Posts: 327
- Joined: 30 Apr 2018, 14:19
- Contact:
Indeed North Curry House - TUST Chair Michel Thomas, who is backed by TUST and the TU Community Sports Trust, is keen to continue and build the Senior Gulls group. An open meeting and get together of existing members is planned where the way forward can be discussed. Details to follow.
Official Account of Torquay United Supporters Trust
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