Voice of the Fans: August 2026 Club Meeting

PRESENT

SUFC: Michelle Harness; Lee Collinson; James Moody; Julie Taylor
Voice of the Fans: Eloise Nicholls; David Cross; Ryan Ashmore
SUFC VP: Sue Rands

Opening Remarks:

Voice of the Fans (VoF) thanked all for attending in response to the later issued meeting request.

1. Review and approval of last meeting held on 13 July 26

Last meeting held at the Attis Arena on 13 July 26 – SUFC advised no comments and notes published on website.

2. Discuss VoF feedback on Fan Zone and next steps

VoF advised chats held with visitors of all ages attending the Gala on 2 August (between 10.30 and 15.00). Approx 50 persons were very willing to share opinions. Majority had a very good understanding of what a Fan Zone entails, and all were very enthusiastic to see a Fan Zone be developed this season. Separate shared note applies with 10 collated items for discussion. With reference to the separate note VoF enquired after next steps to take:-

• When to start to formalise the process?

What research does SUFC have that prepared to share with VoF (fan groups/fans) as to those activities which suit SUFC risk profile and are feasible (I.e acceptable cost, logistics, income and profit opportunity, preferred and trusted suppliers, and safe to run)?

• Can SUFC/VoF release a survey as an online one to get more fan outreach with responses submitted to VoF for collation and admin for onward input to SUFC for study review and decision making?

SUFC advised safety issues were paramount in establishing a safe zone and would be discussing further with the Club’s Safety Advisory Group. However, proposed the gathering of more fan comments by VoF to then prepare a brief to help shape up a Fan Questionnaire released by SUFC, was a good next step.

3. General plans for the season for VoF/SUFC fan initiatives and scheduled activities.

VoF asked if there were other Club initiatives forthcoming the VoF could help with.

SUFC VP advised the VPs were carrying forward a good impetus from previous successful events, and it would be helpful to have fan (and general public) feedback as to what type of events were of interest to attend/support.

4. Shirts

SUFC advised that there will be a “third” 26/27 season shirt released soon; but details held ‘under wraps’ till release.

5. Attis Arena match day food choice and service.

VoF advised some feedback from last season and the first game this season on match day food was primarily about vegetarian options being regularly available and having quicker service at the outlet points. There was an appreciation that vegetarian options had improved; but having well publicised veg menu choice would be helpful.

SUFC advised that it suggested the fans wanting vegetarian selection be more proactive in advising their needs to the Caterer. With regard to quicker service at the food outlets there would be a reliance for the caterer to have good supervisors in place to resolve delays.

6. Fan group collaboration activities

VoF advised good contacts and relationships with majority of SUFC Fan Groups prevailed. The ‘United we Stand’ mug was available at Iron Trust Gala stall.

7. Kevin Keegan Memorial and Independent Fan Steering Group

SUFC said it had been in discussion with Kevin Keegan family representative and subject to Board discussion would be consulting in the future on a suitable memorial. SUFC advised it was well aware of the Iron Trust initiative also; but would not be recommending a statue to be the appropriate memorial.

VoF advised it was aware an Independent Fan Steering Group was being established to discuss the most appropriate memorial, and would be represented in the Group.

8. Update on Football Regulator requirements from SUFC contact and support actions needed

SUFC advised there had been contact with the IFR local representative for some time, and the club was considered as as prototype example for the Licence process. Meeting scheduled on 8th September between Club and IFR local representative and SUFC would report on progress and matters arising at the next VoF/SUFC meeting.

VoF advised it could provide good example evidence of documented fan engagement via VoF first year activities. SUFC advises some Notes of previous SUFC/VoF meetings had already been shared with the IFR rep.

9. Schedule Next Meeting(s)

Next meeting 5pm on 21st September 26. VoF to send out meeting attendance request.

9. AOB – Closing Remarks

SUFC asked if VoF was getting a wide spread of fan views. VoF advised that vast majority of fan views came from different fans with a particular query to raise. The 2025-26 Query Log provides good example of this.

SUFC advised the Club is keen to listen to fan communications and build on feedback. Also the Club does thrive on positive feedback too, which is always appreciated.

VoF said it shared the queries/comments as directed towards it from fans. However, VoF wanted to be seen more than just a “Complaints Dept” for the Club and at times some fans ask what we do. The request to be more proactive and involved was voiced.

VoF advised positive views had been noted in association with the Fan Zone; but usually positive feedback was only received from individuals in response to SUFC/VoF prompt replies to their query raised.

SUFC asked if it was it appropriate now to add another person to the VoF team? [Due to time constraints on the call the this to be discussed at next meeting.]