The unofficial AFC Rushden & Diamonds messageboard

Oundle Diamond #2 wrote:My two suggestions:

1) Transport - Is there a supporters coach from Rushden/Irthlingborough to Wellingborough? Lots of young people can't drive.

While this is a great idea in theory, the old club did this for a few seasons but I believe abandoned it as it was losing money. So I really can't see how we could make it financially viable, unfortunately.

Besides, there are regular buses between Rushden and Wellingborough already, and I assume from Higham and Irthlingborough too.

So we expect a 16-17 year old to pay the same as a 40 year old Trek? The majority of people are in education up until the age of 21. It has been cheaper for me as a student to watch Exeter City in League 2 than AFC R&D in this tinpot league against Raggy Arse Rovers & co.

Regarding the buses, fair enough DaveAlbon. I was unaware of the local bus timetables. It could be something worth looking at whilst we temporarily play away from our two home towns. After all, surely the current public buses in that local area aren't ideal timings, take too long, and cost too much?

Just some thoughts. I'm probably one of a few people in that 16-21 age bracket on this forum.

And sorry DaveAlbon, you mentioned "financially viable". I know the traditional approach would be to have this sustaining itself, but maybe if you want some young enthusiasm around the place, a subsidy of some kind wouldn't be a bad idea. Just ideas.

I think a bouncy castle will do the trick.

Oundle Diamond #2 wrote:So we expect a 16-17 year old to pay the same as a 40 year old Trek? The majority of people are in education up until the age of 21.

You did not make that clear in your original post. Perhaps that's something the Club could consider if they think the admission charge of £6 is preventing students 16-21 from attending our home matches.

When I was 16-19 ish I used to run 10-15 miles every Saturday just for fun. Three miles from Rushden to Well rough should be a doddle.

I think Oundle diamond has brought up a valid point that perhaps has not been looked at , ie that a lot of this age group are in full time education with the financial restraints that this creates. We do not seem to get many from the age group at all ?

Students showing valid student ID are classed as concessions and therefore pay £3 on Matchday already.

Do the club have a student/ub40 discount scheme?
Do the club actively go to local schools promoting the team? Get them in young.
Do the club give out free tickets to youth clubs/scout groups?
Do the club leaflet the local area?
Do the club advertise in the local media?
Do the club put ads up in children's clubs, libraries?

We are a new and young club. We need to target young fans to grow with us.

Free travel is a non starter, but a subsidised scheme 'could' work if planned properly.

I read your reply to Tony after I'd posted mine Stace.