WHUISA Participation in Fan-led Review

Earlier this week, supporters from fan groups in the FSA’s Premier League network gave evidence to the government’s fan-led review. The chair, Tracey Crouch MP, and the rest of the panel heard from a number of supporters trusts and fan groups about the big issues in the top flight.

“WHUISA were delighted to be able to take part in the presentation to Tracey Crouch and to hear from other Premier League clubs on the issues affecting the game. 

“Our Chair, Sue Watson, spoke about the history of a football club and how the cultural heritage develops from that, leading into the impact of this on supporters of all generations.  She described how a culture grows out of the shared stories, the memories, the rituals, songs, and the home stadium itself.  However, she emphasized that the most important aspect of the cultural heritage are the supporters – while owners and shareholders come and go, supporter loyalty remains consistent. 

“We argued for the introduction of a golden share as it would ensure that the best aspects of a well-run business become part of how the Club relates to its supporters.  Decisions arising from business plans, whether stadium moves, training facilities and badges, would be made with those who are the most emotionally invested in their clubs. 

“Finally, Sue gave a passionate and emotive description of the impact on her that followed the move from the Boleyn Ground to the London Stadium.  From a deeply personal perspective, she described how moving to the new ground has decimated the culture of West Ham fans who must pick up the pieces and attempt to fit new memories into that heritage.”