In City we Trust – rallying cry for Cork soccer fans
FERMOY FORAS ROADSHOW SET TO ENCOURAGE FANS TO JOIN THE TURNERS CROSS REVOLUTION
WHILE the return of the premiership across the water may be grabbing the headlines, events both on and off the pitch in Cork have galvanized Rebel fans of the beautiful game.
Soccer fans in North Cork have been invited to become part of the revolution that has seen Cork City FC rise phoenix-like like from the ashes of near oblivion less than a decade ago to become a major force within Irish soccer.
They will be given an opportunity to learn about the benefits of becoming a member of Cork City FC when the fan-owned trust behind the runaway League of Ireland league leaders bring their roadshow to Fermoy next week.
FORAS – the Friends of the Rebel Army Society – will host the first in a series of roadshows next Wednesday night, August 30, in the Fermoy Community Centre on Ashe Quay from 7pm to 9pm.
The Trust formed in 2008 – a tumultuous time in the club’s history – brought it through examinership and the First Division to the top of the Premier League.
Roadshow organisers say they are hopeful that they will have some special guests in Fermoy on the night, which will be confirmed online closer to the event.
Cork City is fully owned by its supporters, who sign up for membership of FORAS for €10 a month.
Members can then vote for, and be elected to, the Cork City Board of Management and also have a vote on motions that come before the Trust’s AGM – giving the fans a direct say in the running of their football club.
Membership also brings with it benefits such as first refusal on tickets for high-profile games, discounts on club merchandise, a share certificate and a membership card.
Members are also given automatic entry to the Trust’s monthly draw – a raffle that is exclusive to FORAS trustees and has prizes including tickets to Ireland internationals on offer.
FORAS vice-chairperson Mike Derham, who will be one of a number of members of the board present at the Fermoy roadshow, said he hoped football fans from North Cork will come along and see the benefits of a FORAS membership for themselves.
“Everyone is welcome to come along and talk to the board of management, along with some special guests. Whether you’re a Cork City supporter or not, you will be given a warm reception when you join us on the night,” Mike said.
On the evening people will be able to speak informally to the board of management, and view some of the silverware that has found its way to the club this season, along with mementos, and jerseys from recent times.
“The roadshow hopes to spread the word of what FORAS is about, what we stand for, why you need to join us, plus of course give some feedback and answer questions about what goes on behind the scenes at Cork City FC,” Mike said.
FORAS chairperson Pat Lyons will be on hand to chat about the current infrastructure and the Trust’s hopes for the future, while Mike Derham can discuss SD Europe and the Irish Supporters Network - associations that has seen FORAS link-up with other supporter-owned clubs such as German side Shalke and FC United of Manchester.
Secretary Darren O’Keeffe will explain the FORAS trust to newcomers, and what it is doing to grow membership, while treasurer Wyon Stansfield will discuss aspects of Cork City’s financial stability and the principles of how the club budgets each season
John F Kennedy will give an insight into the Trust’s work with the community, Derek Lynch, will answer general questions about FORAS and Shane O’Connor can give an informal insight into the importance of getting the t’s crossed and the i’s dotted when contracts are signed.
“The club is experiencing a very successful time of late; FORAS saved the club when it was needed back in 2010. Going forward it is vital that people join for us, understand The FORAS ethos, and are willing to help push the club on to the next level,” said Mike.
“We hope to see as many of those who can make it in Fermoy on Wednesday night, but those who can’t need only visit corkcityfc.ie or email forastrust@corkcityfc.ie for information,” he said.