Commercially, we all know club needs to do more to get money into the war chest.
I believe the match day experience could and should be improved.
What do you think club could do to have a positive impact?
Me?
I believe a lot can be done around the heart beat of the match day....... THE BLUE AND GOLD and courtyard outside.
The bar area needs to be better organised so you can get a drink without the long, off putting waiting line. (its easier to get a drink in surrounding pubs)
The bar area needs better sized tables so people can sit and chat and enjoy their drink of choice. Also these need to be placed around, what is the dance floor area.
After the game players and wives can sit comfy without being hidden in a corner.
The TV needs sound when games are on and when the results service is on. At a volume everyone can hear.
The lighting needs to be warmer, creating a more welcoming atmosphere, especially post match.
All this within the bar area will help create a unity and togetherness. Im sure you will agree there are "clicks" within in our support groups.
After the game, the lighting needs to be right with music or minimum sound from the TV. Otherwise it has all the appeal of a graveyard.
Now, a bit more radicall.
The outside courtyard......
Its become a popular area to have beer, HT and even during games.(maybe this bit needs on field action
)
However its a tip and uncoordinated.
Firstly the benches need fixing down. for safety and comfort.
All rubbish and non stadium essential stuff needs removing. Maybe relocate the first aid shed.
There is an old chip van, why not make use. Either strip it out, paint the exterior and use as the van as the snack bar (currently by B&G door) or use as a BOTTLE BAR (plastic obviously). Alternatively, keep snack bar where it is and use the van as a bottle bar.
To create atmosphere we need pumping music, either separate to match day music or a speaker needs adding so the match day announcements and music are heard.
Something like cable drums could be added to able those standing to gather around and place drinks. Maybe a couple of big umbrellas for the damper day.
The turnstile at this end needs to be open so everyone can naturally go to this area.
The courtyard should have a name. Posters of upcoming games and match travel should be posted in this area.
The whole idea of this area should be a FAN ZONE.
Create an atmosphere that feels good and fun or just easier for everyone to enjoy the experience of the walks.
I am very confident this would add revenue as a minimum. People coming earlier to spend at B&G, rather than pubs. I'm sure if done right this will be a magnet or good reason to attend other than just the footy.
This leaves the club shop and canteen area to be just that. An alternative to the bouncing, warm area the B&G and fan zone wants to be.
What do you think?
