2017 Supporters Summit by Supporters Direct Scotland Tickets

Supporters Direct Scotland recently hosted the 2017 Supporters Summit in Glasgow, focusing on how sports organizations can better engage with their supporters and encourage active participation in the decision-making process. The event brought together representatives from various clubs, including football and rugby teams, as well as supporters’ trusts and fan groups.

The summit aimed to prompt discussions on how sports organizations can increase their transparency, accountability, and engagement with supporters, while also improving the overall fan experience. Topics ranging from inside information on club finances to fan ownership models took center stage at the summit.

A shared belief among attendees was that there needs to be a shift in the way sports organizations operate. Instead of simply ignoring or dismissing fan concerns, it is important for clubs to recognize the value of listening to and involving their supporters in decisions that affect them.

One of the focal points of the summit was fan ownership. More than just having a financial stake in the club, having fans own and run a team has been shown to provide a range of benefits, including increased community involvement, greater transparency, and improved governance. Clubs such as FC United of Manchester and AFC Wimbledon both offer intriguing examples of the positive results that can emerge from fan ownership structures.

Another key issue discussed during the summit was club finances and how they can impact supporter relations. While large sums of money are often associated with professional sports, many teams find themselves struggling financially. As a result, ticket prices may rise or clubs may have to sell off valued players. Supporters want to know where their money is going and how their clubs are being managed, hence the call for more transparency in this area.

Participants in the summit also recognized the valuable role that technology can play in promoting engagement and communication between clubs and their fans. Social media platforms and mobile apps can provide a direct line of communication for supporters, allowing them to voice their opinions and receive updates on club news and events.

Overall, supporters groups, clubs, and other stakeholders left the 2017 Supporters Summit with a sense of new possibilities to improve fan engagement and strengthen the relationship between sports organizations and their supporters. The dialogue encouraged at the summit is likely to continue as fans keep pushing for greater involvement in the decision-making process of their favorite clubs.