Notes of meeting between OxVox and OUFC on 19 March 2008

Present: Nick Merry, Mick Brown, Simon Lenagan, Trevor Lambert, Ray Whittaker, Tim Rosser and Chris Davis.

Introduction:

As Nick Merry was unexpectedly available for the opening 20 minutes, the agenda was rearranged to allow OxVox to outline supporters’ concerns, notably the gloomy finances and the poor standard of football that had been on offer this season, and to ask the Chairman for his views on the way ahead for the Club.

The Chairman responded by saying that it was no secret that the Club was heading for a considerable loss this year, which may exceed previous estimates.  This would have to be covered by additional funding, and a drop in season ticket sales during the summer would only serve to increase the amount of funding required.

Clearly, a more successful team would ensure that supporters were retained.  The Club was concentrating on progression on the field and from a commercial point of view and stability in all other areas.

Various deals to facilitate the acquisition of the stadium and conference centre continue to be the focus for both the Chairman and Ian Lenagan. Despite the length of the process, the Club reported that its relationship with the stadium company was a healthy one.

OxVox added that the committee had received a mandate from its members to be more assertive in its dealings with the Club.  It felt that supporters were being ignored despite the fact that a large percentage of the Club’s income emanated from season ticket sales and match tickets. The club refuted the claim that it was ignoring supporters and pointed out how through talking to bodies like OxVox, individuals and other concerned parties, as well as paying attention to suggestions made through all aspects of the media it was paying attention to a broad range of views from of all of its support groups.

A recent innovation was the Chairman’s monthly statement. The Trust believed this to be a good idea but it should not replace direct contact. The Club was also aware of the perils of communication for its own sake and highlighted some of the response to the Chairman’s monthly web statement as an example of how tricky an issue that can be. The statement in itself will not replace any other forms of communication, it is an additional attempt to communicate in a different way to other groups of supporters.

OxVox insisted that it was ready to assist the Club where it could. The Club added that it was happy to have a continuing, open and direct relationship with the Trust. 

The Club had been disappointed by the tone and accuracy of information in a couple of Press Releases issued by OxVox in November and January but accepted that the Trust was free to use such releases as a way to further its own cause.

OxVox asked the club to consider holding a fans forum before the end of the season.  The Club’s current view was that 3 forums in 12 months may be one too many. However it would continue to listen to current opinion and reconsider if necessary.

The vacant Sales and Marketing post had attracted a healthy number of applicants and interviewing would shortly commence.

2008/09 Season tickets:

The Club agreed that in the face of the current financial position and the lowly position of the team they would need to be more creative about the packages on offer.  Such discussions were already being held within the Club.  OxVox put forward its case for new offerings particularly with juniors, families and students in mind, and the introduction of additional season ticket benefits (for example, a permanent 10% reduction on Club Shop items and not just on the first purchase).  The Club agreed to consider the Trust’s view.

Matchday promotions:

Schools (and schoolchildren) were being targeted in 3 of the 4 remaining home fixtures (the odd one out was Rushden - midweek fixture in term time) this season to try and ensure that good attendances continue.

Next season, OxVox offered to advertise fixtures within pubs/clubs on the understanding that the exercise would continue and not fall by the wayside as it did in 2003/04 and that landlords/owners were suitably rewarded.

Lottery:

The Club stated that the U’s Youth 500 Lottery was being reviewed and welcomed the Trust’s ideas of a lottery in an attempt to increase Club revenue. There was also a case for considering OxVox's suggestion of a 50/50 prize draw on a match day, and the Club would be delighted if it could reduce the overheads of running one by gaining help from the Trust.

The playing side:

The Club believes that standards are improving among its first year scholars, which augurs well for the future. The Club continues to keep its eye on those unfortunate enough to be released, at their local clubs, to see if anyone displays further potential and is worthy of reconsideration. 

Reserve team friendlies will again be the objective next season and the intention will be to play these throughout the season.

Use of the training facility at Milton is set to continue.

All players currently on loan or short-term contract have the opportunity to impress and, if so, the Club would be interested in signing them on longer-term deals.

Chris Davis
Secretary
19 March 2008