[Football] Stop Exploiting Loyalty - FSA Campaign

[Paulie Gualtieri]

Was t aware of this but just read online that Man City haven’t issued season tickets since 2020 but will only honour those that renew.

Over the course of this approach c5,000. Season tickets seats have been lost and added to the general match day tickets volume

 

[matt]

If ever a thread needed a POLL it is this one.

 

[Bozza]

Was t aware of this but just read online that Man City haven’t issued season tickets since 2020 but will only honour those that renew.

Over the course of this approach c5,000. Season tickets seats have been lost and added to the general match day tickets volume

That's quite a remarkable change to the traditional football club operating model which is to secure as many season ticket holders as possible, and bank that regular income.

I guess football tourists, from both near and far, are significantly more profitable. A season ticket holder may buy a replica shirt for the season. 19 match-by-match fans, where attending a game is very much a big event, might buy a shirt each, as well as other merchandise and souvenirs to mark the occasion. It's going to add up to quite a lot more spending over the course of a season.

 

[southstandandy]

Is pretty much where I stand on it.

Fans get charged more and more and more because people will pay it. If it's too expensive for me, someone else will step in and pay.

This isn't just a football thing either. Look at the furore over the cost of Oasis tickets. Streaming services continually putting their prices up. Video games now cost £50-£70 for a digital license essentially meaning you don't even own the thing you're buying.

Clubs, streaming companies, games publishers etc etc will keep raising prices until people start to vote with their wallets and say "no more".

But we won't because we don't want to miss out.

Sadly I had to vote with my feet. I only have so much money to go around and football is still a luxury item, but as you say there will be richer fans than me to take up my seat. Football sadly is slowly eating itself IMO.

 

[veuve]

Should display the banner as is in solidarity, 100%. Quite clear it's an FSA message not a Brighton one. Definitely seems like a "we're ok not our fight thanks" approach, sorry disagree with decision

Agreed

 

[Talby]

"The guy at the FSA who runs the Premier League network is a Newcastle fan."

Oh the irony, getting criticism from a Newcastle fan

Why?

 

[Pogue Mahone]

It seems very odd to me that @Barry Izbak and the FAB have made this decision without consulting the wider fan base at all.

It’s the wrong decision, in my opinion, we should be at the forefront of campaigns like this.

Would it be possible for NSC, a far more representative section of our fan base, to bypass the FAB and organise the protest?

 

[ROSM]

It seems very odd to me that @Barry Izbak and the FAB have made this decision without consulting the wider fan base at all.

It’s the wrong decision, in my opinion, we should be at the forefront of campaigns like this.

Would it be possible for NSC, a far more representative section of our fan base, to bypass the FAB and organise the protest?

They consulted with all the other fan groups. It says so in the original post. Who is this wider fan base you speak of?

 

[Pogue Mahone]

They consulted with all the other fan groups. It says so in the original post. Who is this wider fan base you speak of?

Yes, you’re right, they did.

Reading this thread it would seem that the overwhelming majority of fans here are not in agreement with the decision that they made. I’d be interested to know how many fans in these ‘groups’ had any input into this decision.

It just seems to me that wider consultation, including getting feedback from NSC, would have been sensible.

 

[The Tactician]

Charlie from the FAB here.

I have noted the feedback and viewpoints from this thread, following the initial discussions we had with a number of supporters groups to come to, as Barry Izbak states, a difficult decision.

Clearly, it is extremely important that our Fans United history, and a wider solidarity with our fellow fans against the worsening state of football governance and exploitation of fans is maintained.

Within this context, there is a belief that the efforts BHAFC makes and the guiding principles of Tony Bloom in his running of the club have safeguarded against many of the disappointing actions taken by other clubs.

Our role as a Fan Advisory Board is to facilitate the view of all fans, not our own, and that is why I believe we should and will facilitate actions from fellow fans who want to be part of this. The proposal would be:

Those on this thread who have voiced their strong belief in partaking in this protest in solidarity with other fans to create a bespoke banner "FANS UNITED" to show our support, and present it at the Wolves game. This is a challenge timing wise.

Alternatively, if those involved agree the suggested FSA banner is clear enough not to be pointing fingers at our own club, then this is used. Perhaps the banner can be surrounded by scarves from other clubs to signify where the protest is aimed. I am happy to work with you to draft a letter to share with Tony / Board that outlines the source of the protest, explaining the wider context.

This should also be accompanied by a social media statement to be released in advance of the game to fully contextualise - this can distributed to UK news desks so they are aware and report responsibly.

With the above, while there is clearly split opinion on what the right thing to do is, for those that are passionate and want to commit their time to making this happen, we have a duty to facilitate and support you to do so in a productive way. So, if anyone does want to work towards this, please do let me know and we will help you communicate the stance to the club, collaborate with the FSA, and manage the wider optics.

UTA.

 

[Talby]

From what I can see, the general view is that Brighton fans support the campaign in general but are nervous that displaying the banner would appear (wrongly) to be a criticism of Albion and Bloom. So that’s the hurdle to overcome — how can we make this distinction clear? It’s difficult with one simple banner. We’d have to get into the CPFC realms of displaying a paragraph of opinions spread over several banners, and no one wants that.

Or would a simple "Support the FSA" banner be some sort

Bit concerning that we as a fan base now seem to be too scared to be seen publicly criticising our own board, even by joining in with a protest not directly aimed at the club

With Naylor and The Argus also too scared to write anything mildly critical and effectively acting as club spokespeople, it is all a bit North Korea

This, completely. It appears there is far to much fear of sanction than is healthy.

The regime had changed massively since we moved from Withdean and there is one party line, from which we must not deviate. Personally I hate that and it suggests some at the top have very fragile egos. I don’t think this is TB though.

 

[Littlemo]

I think we are worrying too much about our board feeling targeted by this. Tony and Paul are sensible people, capable of understanding the concept of showing solidarity for other clubs and supporting the message overall whilst not directing it towards them. I am sure there must be ways of communicating that to them as well - we know Paul reads his emails after all!

They may even agree. Other teams driving costs up in this way will impact on us and force us to increase prices etc. We don’t operate in a bubble and keeping our income at a good level means being roughly in line with what others are doing.

We should be supporting it.

 

[Tom Hark Preston Park]

I think we are worrying too much about our board feeling targeted by this. Tony and Paul are sensible people, capable of understanding the concept of showing solidarity for other clubs and supporting the message overall whilst not directing it towards them. I am sure there must be ways of communicating that to them as well - we know Paul reads his emails after all!

They may even agree. Other teams driving costs up in this way will impact on us and force us to increase prices etc. We don’t operate in a bubble and keeping our income at a good level means being roughly in line with what others are doing.

We should be supporting it.

This. It's not even a case of PBOBE reading his emails. Club will be fully aware via this thread. And as a club that believes in Treating People Fairly they'll hopefully be fully aware that it is not them that's in the firing line. I'd like to think that they will fully embrace the protest which is a modern day Fans United

 

[Talby]

Charlie from the FAB here.

I have noted the feedback and viewpoints from this thread, following the initial discussions we had with a number of supporters groups to come to, as Barry Izbak states, a difficult decision.

Clearly, it is extremely important that our Fans United history, and a wider solidarity with our fellow fans against the worsening state of football governance and exploitation of fans is maintained.

Within this context, there is a belief that the efforts BHAFC makes and the guiding principles of Tony Bloom in his running of the club have safeguarded against many of the disappointing actions taken by other clubs.

Our role as a Fan Advisory Board is to facilitate the view of all fans, not our own, and that is why I believe we should and will facilitate actions from fellow fans who want to be part of this. The proposal would be:

Those on this thread who have voiced their strong belief in partaking in this protest in solidarity with other fans to create a bespoke banner "FANS UNITED" to show our support, and present it at the Wolves game. This is a challenge timing wise.

Alternatively, if those involved agree the suggested FSA banner is clear enough not to be pointing fingers at our own club, then this is used. Perhaps the banner can be surrounded by scarves from other clubs to signify where the protest is aimed. I am happy to work with you to draft a letter to share with Tony / Board that outlines the source of the protest, explaining the wider context.

This should also be accompanied by a social media statement to be released in advance of the game to fully contextualise - this can distributed to UK news desks so they are aware and report responsibly.

With the above, while there is clearly split opinion on what the right thing to do is, for those that are passionate and want to commit their time to making this happen, we have a duty to facilitate and support you to do so in a productive way. So, if anyone does want to work towards this, please do let me know and we will help you communicate the stance to the club, collaborate with the FSA, and manage the wider optics.

UTA.

Personally we’re either in line with the other clubs and supporting their message or we’re not.

Modifying the slogan would just make a mockery of us really. The tofu eating wokery brigade vs the pie eating working class fans.

Maybe that’s too harsh but it’s going to be taken that way by some. ‘They’re alright so they don’t care’.

If TB and PB will accept a modified slogan that defends their reputations yet questions the morals of other Clubs I’d be mightily surprised.

This is about us lot - long term fans, STHs - and we are and will continue to hold less value to the club. Look at one of our sponsors - Rockwater….thats who they want, it’s a men’s back slapping competition.

So, as fans were either in solidarity with other fans or we’re not. Champagne socialism isn’t going to cut it.

 

[Dave the OAP]

Charlie from the FAB here.

I have noted the feedback and viewpoints from this thread, following the initial discussions we had with a number of supporters groups to come to, as Barry Izbak states, a difficult decision.

Clearly, it is extremely important that our Fans United history, and a wider solidarity with our fellow fans against the worsening state of football governance and exploitation of fans is maintained.

Within this context, there is a belief that the efforts BHAFC makes and the guiding principles of Tony Bloom in his running of the club have safeguarded against many of the disappointing actions taken by other clubs.

Our role as a Fan Advisory Board is to facilitate the view of all fans, not our own, and that is why I believe we should and will facilitate actions from fellow fans who want to be part of this. The proposal would be:

Those on this thread who have voiced their strong belief in partaking in this protest in solidarity with other fans to create a bespoke banner "FANS UNITED" to show our support, and present it at the Wolves game. This is a challenge timing wise.

Alternatively, if those involved agree the suggested FSA banner is clear enough not to be pointing fingers at our own club, then this is used. Perhaps the banner can be surrounded by scarves from other clubs to signify where the protest is aimed. I am happy to work with you to draft a letter to share with Tony / Board that outlines the source of the protest, explaining the wider context.

This should also be accompanied by a social media statement to be released in advance of the game to fully contextualise - this can distributed to UK news desks so they are aware and report responsibly.

With the above, while there is clearly split opinion on what the right thing to do is, for those that are passionate and want to commit their time to making this happen, we have a duty to facilitate and support you to do so in a productive way. So, if anyone does want to work towards this, please do let me know and we will help you communicate the stance to the club, collaborate with the FSA, and manage the wider optics.

UTA.

In other words…it’s not at all about you tony and Paul, it’s all about how awful everyone else is….and we will do a banner and “ attach other clubs scarves” to show how we are very cross.

sorry but that sounds mealy mouthed nonsense.for some of us who spent quite a few years of our lives and money trekking up and down the country supporting our cause, and to all the clubs and fans of other clubs who supported us, our stance seems to be “ sorry but we are all right jack…f*** you”

 

[Terry Butcher Tribute Act]

Charlie from the FAB here.

I have noted the feedback and viewpoints from this thread, following the initial discussions we had with a number of supporters groups to come to, as Barry Izbak states, a difficult decision.

Clearly, it is extremely important that our Fans United history, and a wider solidarity with our fellow fans against the worsening state of football governance and exploitation of fans is maintained.

Within this context, there is a belief that the efforts BHAFC makes and the guiding principles of Tony Bloom in his running of the club have safeguarded against many of the disappointing actions taken by other clubs.

Our role as a Fan Advisory Board is to facilitate the view of all fans, not our own, and that is why I believe we should and will facilitate actions from fellow fans who want to be part of this. The proposal would be:

Those on this thread who have voiced their strong belief in partaking in this protest in solidarity with other fans to create a bespoke banner "FANS UNITED" to show our support, and present it at the Wolves game. This is a challenge timing wise.

Alternatively, if those involved agree the suggested FSA banner is clear enough not to be pointing fingers at our own club, then this is used. Perhaps the banner can be surrounded by scarves from other clubs to signify where the protest is aimed. I am happy to work with you to draft a letter to share with Tony / Board that outlines the source of the protest, explaining the wider context.

This should also be accompanied by a social media statement to be released in advance of the game to fully contextualise - this can distributed to UK news desks so they are aware and report responsibly.

With the above, while there is clearly split opinion on what the right thing to do is, for those that are passionate and want to commit their time to making this happen, we have a duty to facilitate and support you to do so in a productive way. So, if anyone does want to work towards this, please do let me know and we will help you communicate the stance to the club, collaborate with the FSA, and manage the wider optics.

UTA.

Tbh it reads like you're shit scared of what our board think. Which is a sad indictment of what the FAB has become.

Also, you mention Bloom's running of the club but by Bloom's own admission, he has handed over the running of the club on a day to day basis. A lot of people like to forget that.

I don't especially blame you either. It's supposed to be a Fan advisory board but in reality it's a club advisory board. Having to write to the club to get their approval for football fans to protest against football fans being exploited to the max is just a bit weird, even more.so if you have to ask the press to take the club's side first.

Still that's the Albion these days, all about controlling the messaging in the media. As long as the world think we're a 'well run club', nothing else matters.

 

[Talby]

In other words…it’s not at all about you tony and Paul, it’s all about how awful everyone else is….and we will do a banner and “ attach other clubs scarves” to show how we are very cross.

sorry but that sounds mealy mouthed nonsense.for some of us who spent quite a few years of our lives and money trekking up and down the country supporting our cause, and to all the clubs and fans of other clubs who supported us, our stance seems to be “ sorry but we are all right jack…f*** you”

Exactly this.

It’s a campaign and we’re either in or out. Solidarity.

It’s not criticising TB. It’s acknowledging it’s occurring in the PL.

Will it start happening at BHAFC? In some guise I think so….and the other clubs will just shake their heads at the silly BHAFC fans who forgot their past.

 

[Talby]

Tbh it reads like you're shit scared of what our board think. Which is a sad indictment of what the FAB has begun.

Also, you mention Bloom's running of the club but by Bloom's own admission, he has handed over the running of the club on a day to day basis. A lot of people like to forget that.

I don't especially blame you either. It's supposed to be a Fan advisory board but in reality it's a club advisory board. Having to write to the club to get their approval for football fans to protest against football fans being exploited to the max is just a bit weird, even more.so if you have to ask the press to take the club's side first.

Still that's the Albion these days, all about controlling the messaging in the media. As long as the world think we're a 'well run club', nothing else matters.

Totally.

Protect the brand - even if you’re wrong.

 

[thedonkeycentrehalf]

Assuming we still have our official supporters club, as they would be the FSA members and not the FAB is it not up to them to decide if we choose to have the banner? Or did they also agree not to show it?

 

[veuve]

In our darkest hour we asked other clubs for their support and they gave it,now there asking for our support and we should absolutely give it.