Young Shots supporters benefit from fan engagement initiative

Lifelong Shots supporter Paul Marcus is a trustee of Aldershot Town Football Club’s community scheme and registered charity, The Shots Foundation.

AS we reach the final weeks of another frustrating season, It is with a sense of irony that I reflect upon the progress of The Shots Foundation.

Whilst supporters will always want success on the pitch ahead of behind-the-scenes accolades, I would hope that much of our work this season will positively impact the playing side of the club.

Steps taken include growing our fanbase through community tickets along with improving the matchday experience for new and long-time supporters. This season we launched our new Fanzone and supported the return of half-time entertainment, including the crossbar challenge. If this only improves our matchday experience by 1% for around 1,500 home supporters, well that’s a start and something to build on.

Growing our club’s reach through coaching in schools and holiday camps along with the offer of attending a home fixture, means we are at least reaching out and inviting new supporters – tomorrow’s supporters – to start the journey of becoming a Shots fan. I have seen club directors criticised for choosing to prioritise its efforts to build community relationships over focusing on improving the club’s footballing fortunes. Much of this community engagement work is actually conducted by the Foundation but I understand feel-good stories can be frustrating when there is a lack of progress on the pitch. However, our club’s reputation could impact our future success.

This is reflected in the amazing progress of our academy – developing our reputation in football circles and providing homegrown talent to our first-team. The recruitment and development of Tommy Willard and Alfie Saunders are prime examples of this.

You may disagree and that’s your choice. For me – this is my club. I can’t afford to be a sugar-daddy and I’m too old to offer my services as a player. I believe The Shots Foundation’s work will positively impact gate receipts from new supporters; that commercial revenue from engaged sponsors would support a more competitive playing budget. Our continued work, supporting local charities in the community and our shared partnership work with Rushmoor Borough Council, just might help towards our muchneeded ground redevelopment.

The Shots Foundation are striving to make Aldershot Town an inclusive, diverse club with a growing fanbase that is genuinely an asset to the wider local community. If you feel you can help, then please contact me at paul.marcus@shotsfoundation.org