The Huddersfield Town Supporters Association Column in the Huddersfield Daily Examiner
Happy Christmas!
Below is the usual Examiner column but please also be aware of a massive announcement from the Club today, which undoubtedly adds to the message in the column.
See http://www.htafc.com/page/FromTheBoardroomDetail/0,,10312~1914687,00.html
Seasons greetings to Town fans wherever you are.
For those reading this on the Internet around the world then it could be a glorious summer’s day but for those of us within easier reach of the Galpharm then it’s looking like a white one and so a happy one for all the punters who picked it.
Will it be a happy one for Town fans at Carlisle on Boxing Day? Let’s hope so after the disappointment of last Saturday’s fruitless trip to Norwich.
There’s still time to book your place on the Supporters Association coach, priced at £15 and £13 concessions (juniors), leaving from the Galpharm at 11am. Please ring 07926 165863 before 8pm today to book your place. Please also note that these prices are for HTSA members. For non-members it’s £2 extra but you can always join the Association on the coach. The annual fee is only £5 so three coach trips will show an immediate saving!
Talking of which, our next away match after Carlisle will be to the opposite end of the country: Southampton on January 9, leaving the stadium at 8am and priced at £20 and £18 for members.
In addition to joining on one of our coach trips you can, of course, join on a match day by calling into the portacabin at the St. Andrews end of the stadium. For anyone with Internet access, membership is available via the website at www.htsa.co.uk , where you have another choice to make! You can either pay on line, using the PayPal facility, or download an application form to post with your £5.
Up the Town!
Happy Christmas, everybody!There's Still Time
We recently highlighted a new survey by the Football League, available on-line survey at http://tinyurl.com/y9o2k6u.
Why not give the League the benefit of your wisdom with your views on questions such as:
- Would you like to see The Football League trial the use of sin-bins in one of its competitions?
- Do you think The Football League should introduce a system that puts a limit on the amount clubs can spend on players' salaries or restricts the number of players they can sign?
- Do you think the standard of refereeing in Football League matches is improving?
- Why did you start supporting your club?
- What might encourage you to attend more of your club's home/away matches?
- Do you feel valued by your club?
- When would you prefer to watch live Football league matches on television?
- Would you be willing to pay to join a subscription service that would enable you to watch your club's away matches on the internet?
HTAFC is certainly encouraging its fans to participate and the Supporters Association firmly believes in making our voice heard - so go for it!
Of course this has to be fitted in with some extensive traveling for Town fans this month, starting with the trip to Norwich this Saturday. The HTSA coach leaves at 8:30 and is priced at £19 and £15 concessions (juniors). Please note that two coaches are booked for Norwich and, by way of an experiment, fans will have the choice of a quieter coach for their travel. The destination on Boxing Day is Carlisle, leaving at 11am, priced at £17 and £13 concessions but please note that if booking for both trips there will be a £2 reduction in the total, i.e., £34 instead of £36. Departure time for Norwich is 8:30am and for Carlisle is 11am. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your place(s).
As an alternative for those with time for a lunch stop, there are still places available on the Patrons coach to Carlisle, leaving an hour earlier at 10am and priced at £20 to include a lunch near the ground. Please ring Martin Lister on 01484 714287 to book your place.
The Chairman Speaks!
This is a late reminder for our more easterly fans to get along to tonight’s Supporters Association Heavy Woollen area meeting, where the principal guest will be the Town chairman, Dean Hoyle. Don’t miss the chance to ask Santa if he has any late Christmas presents in store come January and the opening of the transfer window!
The venue is Barclays Club, North Road, Ravensthorpe and you are advised to get there by 7:30pm.
What a great performance from the lads last Saturday. Just for a change the award of Manager of the Month for November didn’t signal any sort of reversal. (Perhaps that had come the previous Tuesday, when it seemed that Town were in an early Christmas mood?) Congratulations to Lee Clark and here’s to a few more!
So onward and upward now. Let’s get behind the team again as they take on Gillingham this Saturday in what we hope will be a return to winning ways.
Then it’s back on the road again – Norwich a week on Saturday (December 19) and Carlisle on Boxing Day. Prices are £19 (£15 concessions) and £17 (£13 concessions) respectively but please note that if booking for both trips there will be a £2 reduction in the total, i.e., £34 instead of £36. These prices apply for HTSA members but non-members can join on the coach. Alternatively, membership (for an annual fee of only £5) is available via the website at www.htsa.co.uk
Departure time for Norwich is 8:30am and for Carlisle is 11am. As usual, please ring 07926 165863 to book your place (this number should be trouble-free now), or call into the portacabin before the home match on Saturday. Norwich in particular is proving popular and plans have been made for a second coach, so come and join us as Lee Clark, having flown the nest, aims to put the rest of the Canaries to flight!
You Tell 'Em!
In a spirit of cooperation with football fans, the Football League has set up an on-line survey at http://tinyurl.com/y9o2k6u
Here's your chance to have a say in how football is run in this country in the future. Will they listen? Well, the more people that complete the survey the more chance that they will.
HTAFC is certainly encouraging its fans to participate and the responses will be collated by club because the first question asks which team you support. As a supporters organisation, the Supporters Association firmly believes in making our voice heard - so go for it!
The more immediate future sees Town fans on their travels three times in December.
First up, of course, is a little local matter and the HTSA coach leaves the stadium on Saturday at 10:30am for the early kick-off. There are still a few seats left, priced at £10 and £8 concessions for HTSA members, so please ring 07926 165863 to book. We would also ask for your patience in ringing this number as there have been a few technical problems with the phone - hopefully to be rectified shortly.
Then we have two of our more usual longer trips this season: Norwich on December 19 and Carlisle on Boxing Day. Prices are £19 (£15 concessions) and £17 (£13 concessions) respectively but please note that if booking for both trips there will be a £2 reduction in the total, i.e., £34 instead of £36. Departure time for Norwich is 8:30am and for Carlisle is 11am. Again, please ring the above number to book your place, or call into the portacabin before the home match on December 12 but please note that the Norwich coach is already three-quarters full.
Calling all Young Terriers
As usual, the Young Terriers are meeting at the Sports Barn this season, before every home Saturday league fixture with a 3 pm kick-off. The sessions start at 12 noon and the next match will be Brentford on September 12th .
So if you like to play football for fun and much, much more, and if you are between 8 and 13 years old, why not give the Young Terriers a try? Just turn up at the above venue and take it from there.
A typical meeting consists of 5-a-side football, lunch, programme, bus ride to the stadium and a seat at the game plus a free autograph book when you join. As if that's not enough, there are two parties a year with players in attendance; away trips; plus the chance to be the matchday mascot when you become a member.
And after Town’s great start, who doesn’t want to be part of the action, young or old?
If that includes Town’s away matches, then you might be interested in details of the Huddersfield Town Supporters Association coaches. There are still seats available on this Saturday’s trip to Bristol. Prices are £18 and £16 concessions, with a 9am start from the stadium. As usual, bookings can be made by phoning 07926 165863.
Please also note that we are trialling the sale of refreshments on the coach. These do NOT include alcohol, which is forbidden by law on such trips, so please don’t try to bring your own as any contravention of the regulations could have serious consequences for the coach operators.
Then there’s the trip to Newcastle next Wednesday. Seats, priced at £14 and £12, are selling quickly on this coach, leaving the stadium at 3:30pm. Please ring the usual number, as above. Look out as well for details of the Rotherham match, once the fixture date has been confirmed.
Finally, for Milton Keynes on September 5th , there’s a choice. As usual, there will be an HTSA coach, leaving at 10:30am and priced at £15 or £13. Alternatively, the Patrons are running one of their occasional trips, which includes a lunch stop near the ground. This will leave the stadium at 9:30am and the inclusive price is £20. To book, please ring Martin on 01484 714287 (daytime only, please).
Here (and There) We Go!
The season is now finally under way with a cracking win on Tuesday to add to the never-say-die draw last Saturday. Bring on the Southampton!
As footballing matters get back into top gear, perhaps it’s time to remind members of the Huddersfield Town Supporters Association that the £5 subscription for 2009/2010 is now due. Our Honorary President, Andy Booth, is keen to add his voice to the reminder as well as urging new members to come forward. Application forms are available on the website at www.htsa.co.uk, where you also have the option of paying on-line.
Much has already been achieved but there is much more still to do and the stronger we are, the stronger our voice in discussions with the Club. If you have any particular issues to raise, please email info@htsa.co.uk or write to PO Box 1908, Huddersfield HD4 6WT.
Turning now to our travel section the next away game is, of course, Bristol on August 22nd. Prices are £18 and £16 concessions, with a 9am start from the stadium As usual, bookings can be made by phoning 07926 165863 or by calling into the portacabin on Saturday or next Tuesday evening.
Still on the travel theme, will Patrons please note that a trip to MK Dons is planned for September 5th. There are a lot of long-distance trips this season, of course, so finding a suitable venue isn’t easy.
The old favourite at Walsall is ruled out because it’s a Tuesday night fixture so the early season Patrons trip will be to Milton Keynes on September 5th. Departure time is 9:30am from the stadium on an Executive coach with a meal near the ground before the match.
All this for only £20.00! To book, please ring Martin on 01484 714287 (daytime only, please).
Fund Raising
The Huddersfield Town Supporters Association is keen to support the Club’s partnership with Yorkshire Air Ambulance and to try to raise funds where possible for the Keep It Up campaign.
You have an opportunity to be Active or Passive - or both!
First, appropriately on Yorkshire Day, August 1st , we have organised a sponsored Abseiling event at the Galpharm. So you are invited to participate by asking your friends, relatives and colleagues to sponsor your abseil from the TV gantry of the Antich stand. Our suggested minimum sponsorship is £50 but don’t be shy to come forward with less. This event is being generously supported by Harratts Volvo and all reasonable contributions will be very welcome. Each participant will receive a T-shirt to mark their Active involvement and there will be a prize for the highest sponsorship amount raised. There should be time for any Town supporters to complete their abseil before setting off for the pre-season match at Wrexham but for more details and to sign up, please contact our organiser, Steve King, on 07753 634298 or by email to steve.jnr@kingscientific.co.uk
Secondly, everyone is invited to show their Passive support by sponsoring the HTSA Chairman, Marcus Middleton, as he cycles to Southend for Keep It Up with Dean Hoyle, Sean Jarvis and Paul Ramsden. The training has started and will no doubt intensify as August draws near!
Marcus can be sponsored on-line at http://www.justgiving.com/marcusmiddleton/ (including an option for Gift Aid) or by sending a cheque to HTSA at PO Box 1908 Huddersfield, HD4 6WT
New Era
As the new era within Huddersfield Town begins to take full control it is important that the fans support the new hierarchy as much as possible in all the ventures they undertake. The ‘Keep It Up’ campaign is a significant initiative and any Town fan should consider ways in which they can raise funds and awareness within the next 12 months.
Dean Hoyle and Sean Jarvis will cycle to the first away game and there will be scope for a number of Town fans to join them on their venture. We’re sure that there will be a lot of anxiety in advance of next Wednesday’s release of the fixtures for the upcoming season!
HTSA are finalising the details for an abseil to be held at the stadium on Saturday 1st August and we would encourage as many Town fans as possible to participate, test themselves, and raise money for a worthwhile cause. Full details will be announced shortly on all available sources.
Annual membership is now due for renewal. The cost has been frozen and is free to Under 8s, £2.00 for 8-13 years, and £5.00 for those aged over 13. Membership forms can be downloaded from our website at www.htsa.co.uk and as we approach the new season we hope to retain all our existing members, and welcome more Town fans to help swell the membership.
We’re keen to hear your views, what you want a Supporters group to do for you, and how your matchday experience can be improved. Please get in touch either by writing to HTSA, PO Box 1908 Huddersfield HD4 6WT or by emailing info@htsa.co.uk.
Huddersfield Town is our club. HTSA is your voice. The bigger the membership, the louder the voice!
Will all Patrons please note that the new membership cards just issued with the May Terrier should be retained for use at the monthly meetings.
Welcome!
In the week beginning June 1st , the Huddersfield Town Supporters Association has an early chance to bid a very special welcome to Dean Hoyle, Town’s new Chairman.
Dean has already demonstrated his passion and commitment as a Town fan when he has attended several meetings of various HTSA groups around the country, including Stockport, Halifax and Leyton in addition to more local venues in Huddersfield and Dewsbury.
Allied to his passion and commitment is his sound business sense as a very successful entrepreneur and all Town fans are looking forward to the start of our second centenary with the Hoyle/Clark partnership now firmly in place.Welcome Back!
Dean Hoyle has let it be known that he is keen to see a strong Supporters organisation so in the week in which we say “Welcome!” to Dean, we’d like to say “Welcome Back!” to all those existing members of HTSA because June 1st is also membership renewal date.
We shall be issuing formal notices of the forthcoming AGM with renewal reminders but why wait until then?
This is also an appeal for new members to come forward and help to make HTSA stronger and more representative. Achievements to date include:
- South Stand for Town fans
- Improved stadium catering
- Bottled beer now available
- Creation of regional supporters groups
- Affordable coach travel
- Purchase of Billy Smith memorabilia purchase
- And more!
Join now! Visit www.htsa.co.uk or the portacabin outside the stadium on match days.
Membership is only £5 a year to cover our costs - any fundraising for the Club will be done separately.So please think about it and get in touch if you have any questions, either by emailing info@htsa.co.uk or by phoning 07798 727782.
Go Down to Keep It Up!
Huddersfield Town Supporters Association is pleased to announce a fund-raising event to be held on Yorkshire Day this year.
This will be a charity abseiling event at the Galpharm stadium on 1st August to raise money for the "Keep It Up" Campaign.
This was launched by the Club in partnership with Yorkshire Air Ambulance and all funds raised will be evenly split between YAA and the Club’s Academy. Huddersfield Town is branding itself as The Yorkshire Club so what could be more appropriate than to hold this event on Yorkshire Day – Saturday, August 1.
The abseil will be from the TV gantry in the stadium (approx 15 metres) and we are looking for approximately 70 people to take part, with a minimum of £50.00 in sponsorship money. All participants will receive a certificate and there will be a special prize for the one who raises the most money. All the profit goes straight to the Keep it up campaign.
So here’s a chance to try something new (or to demonstrate your skills if you’re an expert!) at the same time as contributing to two excellent causes.
To express your interest, please contact Steve King for further details, either by email to steve@kingscientific.co.uk or by phoning him on 07753 634298
The Curtain Comes Down
Wednesday’s meeting of the Patrons Association finally brought the curtain down on the 2008/2009 season. But a 100-plus audience witnessed two very different one-act plays.
It was definitely Curtain Up for the first one with Lee Clark taking centre stage, giving us a very assured performance as he dealt competently, honestly and sometimes humorously with every question thrown at him. In his opening remarks he paid tribute to the magnificent support that he had received since his arrival at the club.
The Manager emphasised his belief in fitness and athleticism allied to ability. It’s his expectation that the summer’s influx of new players, together with an intense pre-season preparation, will be the basis for sustaining good performances over 90 minutes. He’s looking to strengthen the squad in all departments except the keeper, where he already has three high-calibre players. The Academy is an integral part of his plans but the bar on quality has been raised.
Amongst several players to be mentioned specifically, we learned that there might still be a chance this summer for Tehoue to earn a place if FIFA complete their investigations in time; Novak will not be loaned out but will compete for his place in the squad; Kelly could be here next season, depending on Liverpool’s summer signings; the best is still to come from Ainsworth; Pilkington can go all the way to the Premiership – hopefully with Town. Our new manager also paid tribute to Boothy the Legend and wished that he still had a 30-year old Booth available.
Lee Clark has huge ambitions for, and commitment to, Huddersfield Town and will leave no stone unturned to achieve success for the club, staff, players, fans and himself.
The second-half play featured Ralph Rimmer and Ken Davy, with Ralph leading off by praising the Manager for dealing so effectively with all the questions raised. Ken Davy endorsed that view before giving us a resumé of his six seasons in charge of the football club. This included the low point of the journey back from Cheltenham after the last league game of the first season with the high spot coming weeks later with the play-off success in Cardiff. He also told us that Peter Jackson had refused to spend the money from the Chelsea cup match on squad strengthening.
He then threw the meeting open to the floor but had already made it clear that he would not take any questions that he considered had already been answered.
This turned out to be a reference to the issue of the stadium shares. Instead there were several questions for Ralph Rimmer on the management of away supporters and on stadium development. Ralph also dealt with a question on HD-One by telling us that the anticipated significant increase in people visiting the site should bring more visitors to the club shop. The number of companies operating there should also bring many more sponsorship opportunities. Ken Davy also pointed out that increased revenue for KSDL could mean a reduction in the stadium rental for both clubs.
The answers to other questions to Ken Davy included the following snippets: Adam Pearson's approach was declined because they didn't believe it would ever have come to fruition and Town had been used as a 'stalking horse'; Town’s rental payments have fallen during his tenure; he was reluctant to come forward to take the club out of administration but there was no-one else to do it; he has no issues with everything that was in that day's Guardian article, the truth has been told, and he is neutral to the content of the article.
Town’s current owner signalled Curtain Down on the Patrons’ season and his tenure by summarising his legacy: Ken Davy has extended the stadium, built a new shop, built a new ticket office, and believes that Huddersfield Town is a solid club to take forward.
Calling Halifax and Brighouse
This is a late call for any Town supporters living in the Halifax and Brighouse areas.
Tonight there will be an inaugural meeting to form a Calderdale region of the Supporters Association, which will take place at The Three Pigeons in Halifax, starting at 7:30pm. Club guests will include Dean Hoyle, Nigel Clibbens and Sean Jarvis. The meeting will be compèred by Town’s match-day announcer, Paul Ramsden. This is your chance to put your questions about the future of YOUR Club to those people who will be running the Club from now on. Or simply a chance to network with other fans in your area. Please ring 07798 727782 if you need any more information about the meeting or the venue.
As reported last week, all Kirklees councillors have now been made aware of the concerns of supporters - their constituents – over the Stadium shares. Some have acknowledged the contact and some are looking further into those concerns. Otherwise, replies are still awaited from the KSDL Secretary regarding our supplementary questions, from Begbies Traynor regarding administration and from Kirklees Council regarding some Freedom of Information queries.....and when we receive them we will make them as widely available as possible.
Last stop: Leyton Orient on Saturday week, May 2nd. The HTSA coach is priced at £19 and £17 and will leave the stadium at 8:30am. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your place.
The earlier start should enable those travelling on the coach to meet up with other fans and Dean Hoyle following the Southern Area Supporters meeting organised by Andy Kilvington.
News Update
Easter Monday’s meeting at the Turnbridge WMC heard the latest developments in the investigation into the future of the Club’s former shares in the stadium. Although the invitations to a number of local councillors were probably too short notice, it is intended to request a meeting with local representatives. All Kirklees councillors have now been made aware of the concerns of supporters - their constituents. Further developments will be posted on the Supporters Association website at www.htsa.co.uk .
The latest development in the growth of area groups within the Supporters Association will be an inaugural meeting for supporters in the Calderdale area. All season ticket holders in that area, including Brighouse, should have received notice of a meeting to be held at The Three Pigeons in Halifax today week, April 23rd, starting at 7:30pm. Club guests will include Dean Hoyle, Nigel Clibbens and Sean Jarvis. The meeting will be compèred by Town’s match-day announcer, Paul Ramsden. Again, more information can be found on the website above; alternatively, please ring 07798 727782.
The penultimate away trip this season is Walsall on Saturday. The HTSA coach is priced at £12 and £10 and will leave the stadium at 11am. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your place.
There will also be a special Patrons trip to include a lunch stop at Tamworth WMC. This will leave at 10:00am and is priced at £17, including lunch. Please phone Martin Lister on 01484 714287 to make your reservation.
Stadium Shares Concerns
Three weeks ago, the Supporters Association reported that a detailed letter had been sent to Ken Gillespie as Secretary of KSDL, setting out a number of questions relating to concerns over the future relationship between the Football Club and KSDL, particularly in relation to the stadium shares once owned by Huddersfield Town FC.
A reply has now been received, prompting further questions. That reply, together with the original letter and the questions raised, can be viewed in full on the Supporters Association website at www.htsa.co.uk .
Supporters should also be aware that an open meeting will be held before next Monday’s match (April 13), when there will be an opportunity to discuss the latest position on this issue as well as to raise any other questions of concern. The meeting will start at 1pm in the Upper Bar of the Turnbridge WMC (St. Andrews Road) and a snack lunch will be provided.
This is also a last reminder that there are still places available on tomorrow evening’s coach to Scunthorpe, leaving the stadium at 5:15pm. Prices are £10 and £8. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your place.
The next trip after that is Walsall on April 18th. The HTSA coach is priced at £12 and £10 and will leave the stadium at 11am. There will also be a special Patrons trip to include a lunch stop at Tamworth WMC. This will leave at ??? and is priced at £17, including lunch. Please phone Martin Lister on 01484 714287 to book your place.
The Annual Awards Event
A lot of progress has been made in the short time that the Supporters Association has been in existence and a healthy relationship has been developed with the Football Club.
There was, though, an apparent breakdown in communications between the Club and the HTSA over the plans for an Annual Awards event on April 25th and it has been agreed to pursue plans for next year at the earliest opportunity with a view to organising a joint event at a reasonable price.
However, as a demonstration of continued commitment to partnership with the Club, it has also been agreed to take up the table for ten available to the HTSA as Player Sponsors. A random draw has been made for four pairs of tickets to be offered to HTSA members for a discounted price of £20 each, i.e., an average match-day price, which has been the general principle in previous years for the Supporters Club Player of the Year event.
The winners will be contacted as early as possible to ensure that they are able to take their places on April 25th.
If you didn’t qualify for the draw this time, you can make sure next time by joining the HTSA on-line at www.htsa.co.uk or by calling in to the portacabin on match days. And don’t forget that anyone joining now for the usual £5 becomes a member until May 2010.
Our next away trip is Scunthorpe on Good Friday (three in a row?) and the HTSA coach will leave the stadium at 5.15pm. Prices are £10 and £8 concessions. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your seat.
Finally this is a last reminder for fans to put their own questions forward tonight when the Club’s Directors, including Chairman Elect Dean Hoyle and Chief Executive Nigel Clibbens, will be the guests at the Patrons’ meeting, starting at 8pm in the Fantastic Media Suite at the stadium.
This is always a popular meeting - how many other Clubs’ directors meet their fans on a regular basis? - so get there early to ensure a good seat!
25th March 2009
Onwards – and Upwards!
Whatever we might think of the prospects for the rest of this season, it’s clear from yesterday’s launch of the Keep It Up campaign by the Club and Yorkshire Air Ambulance that there are some ambitious plans for the future of Huddersfield Town.
Next Thursday will be an opportunity for fans to put their own questions forward on that and any other topics when the Club’s Directors, including Chairman Elect Dean Hoyle and Chief Executive Nigel Clibbens, will be the guests at the Patrons’ meeting, starting at 8pm in the Fantastic Media Suite at the stadium.
This is always a popular meeting - how many other Clubs’ directors meet their fans on a regular basis? - so get there early to ensure a good seat!
It’s not too late to book for the HTSA coach to Hereford this Saturday, leaving the stadium at 1030am. Please note that this is half an hour earlier than originally planned. Prices are £12 and £10. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your seat.
Finally, for all those with Internet access, click the link below to go to the Sports section of the BBC website to view a 12-minute video on the Pride of Huddersfield Town. This was the BBC’s first stop on their Marvellous, Magical, Mad Football League Tour and gives an unusual account of the Club and its place in the hearts of its supporters.
Click here to view the BBC video
19th March 2009
Stadium Shares Concerns
In view of the impending change of ownership of Huddersfield Town Football Club and the uncertainties surrounding the future of the stadium shares formerly owned by the club prior to, and immediately following, Administration, the Supporters Association has sent a detailed letter to Ken Gillespie as Secretary of KSDL, setting out a number of questions.
The letter and the questions can be viewed in full on the Supporters Association website at www.htsa.co.uk . Any responses will, of course, be conveyed to the public.
Supporters should also be aware that an open meeting will be held before the Easter Monday match (April 13), when there will be an opportunity to discuss the latest position on this issue as well as to raise any other questions of concern. The meeting will start at 1pm in the Upper Bar of the Turnbridge WMC (St. Andrews Road) and a snack lunch will be provided.
Meanwhile, this month sees two more away trips and there will be the usual HTSA coach to Hereford on Saturday week, March 28, leaving the stadium at 11am. Prices are £12 and £10. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your place.
Finally, if anyone is interested in an away weekend for the last match of the season, May 2nd at Orient, please let us know by this weekend - again by ringing the above number.
12th March 2009
Safe Standing
For some considerable time now, the Football Supporters Federation has campaigned for Safe Standing areas to be allowed in football stadia, citing the success of these in the German Bundesliga as examples where new technology and crowd management techniques mean that standing is not inherently unsafe.
Within the last week, this campaign has seen two significant developments.
First it was announced that Morecambe Football Club are to become the first league club in England or Wales to incorporate Safe Standing areas into their new stadium. With Morecambe in League Two this is, of course, within the current legislation but nevertheless represents a breakthrough in the campaign for Safe Standing.
A potentially much bigger breakthrough then appeared when it was revealed by Everton FC chief executive Keith Wyness that the club would be interested in the possible return of a limited standing area, if they proceed with a proposed move to a new stadium.
The Goodison official told a House of Commons seminar that Everton might be interested in a pilot scheme if the Government changed the current all-seating ground regulations.
Mr Wyness told the seminar: “As you can all imagine, this is a very sensitive issue because of where we are situated. We are looking for a new stadium and one of our options is that we could have a standing area.
“I personally went to Germany recently and watched a game at Cologne and was amazed by the atmosphere in the standing area.
“If the Government will discuss it, we may be prepared to offer ourselves as a trial if necessary.”
Meanwhile 136 MPs have backed an Early Day Motion for “the Government to re-examine the case for introducing, small, limited sections of safe standing areas”.
Of course, the Galpharm is currently an all-seater stadium but what are the possibilities if it ever becomes necessary to expand by filling in the corners, for example?We close with a reminder that the Town Supporters Association coach to Tranmere on Saturday will leave at 12:30pm, priced at £11 and £9. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your seats.
12th February 2009
Watching football is not a crime!
This is part of an ongoing drive by the Football Supporters Federation to monitor the police in their dealings with football supporters and work with them to ensure that all fans are treated fairly, within the law and in exactly the same way as other social groups.
Watching football is not a crime! has been launched as a direct reaction to recent instances of police officers using Section 27 of the Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 as a way of stopping football supporters, usually in pubs, from attending matches.
These instances are not restricted to high-profile Premiership games. Recently, fifteen Plymouth Argyle fans were on their way to see their team play away against Doncaster Rovers. Club stewards directed the group to a nearby pub. Despite there being no trouble, the group, whose number included children, were confronted by the police and told that they would not be attending that afternoon’s game. Instead they were given a police escort through three counties back toward Plymouth.
The FSF has teamed up with the civil rights organisation Liberty and is fully committed to taking this issue to court in order to prevent police using Section 27 on innocent football supporters.
Campaign aims:
- To stop the use of Section 27 legislation as a strategy for policing football supporters.
- To inform supporters that this is happening with previous examples and steps to take if you are a victim of Section 27 legislation.
- Prosecution/compensation – to establish whether or not use of Section 27 legislation by police on football supporters in this way is lawful, and if not, to take appropriate legal action to compensate as many of the victims of this tactic as possible. Specifically, we will strive to achieve the following compensation for innocent fans: refunds on travel expenses and match tickets, deletion of any records of incidents held on file, and a written apology.
Huddersfield Town Supporters Association does not see this as a local issue and has a good relationship with the Club’s police liaison officer but does give its support to the FSF campaign. Who knows when and where the next instance might occur?
For any more information, please consult the FSF website at http://www.fsf.org.uk/ ; to contact us, email info@htsa.co.uk or phone 07798 727782.
And now, with hopes of a trouble-free trip to Crewe - weather-wise and any other-wise! - the HTSA coach will leave the stadium on Saturday week at 12:30pm. Fares are £11 and £9 concessions. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your place.
5th February 2009
Calling All Regions!
The Supporters Association already has two thriving regional groups, one for the Heavy Woollen district and one for the greater London area (but with wider boundaries than that!)
Now there are plans to increase this to five groups, beginning with the Spen Valley. An inaugural meeting will take place next Tuesday (February 10th ) at Millbridge WMC, starting at 8pm. For further details, directions etc. please ring 01924 402696.
Then on Saturday February 28th, before the game at Stockport that day, there will be the first meeting of the North West group. This will be at Blossoms Hotel Tel: 0161 4772397 - 2 Buxton Road, Stockport, Cheshire, SK2 6NU, starting at 12:30pm. Hot lunch (chilli or hot pot) will be available for the princely sum of £2.50!
Thirdly, but still at an early stage, there are plans to start a group in the Halifax area. Please watch this space and the website at www.htsa.co.uk for further details, including guests from the Club, of all these meetings
They are open to all Town fans who are interested in learning more about the Club we all support and in meeting up with other fans in their area.
More immediately, this Saturday sees Town away at Bristol Rovers. Places are still available on the HTSA coach, leaving the stadium at 9am. Prices are £18 or £16 concessions. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your place.
Finally, this is a last reminder of tonight’s Patrons meeting, starting at 8pm in the Fantastic Media Suite at the stadium. It is the Annual Quiz - a team event involving Huddersfield Town, The Supporters Association, The Media and The Patrons. It’s always a fun night and there are chances for audience participation with lots of spot prizes along the way. Come along for a really fun night and test your football knowledge!
29th January 2009
Patrons Patter
Last Saturday surely showed that we really are “All Together Now”!
Over 3,000 followed the Town to Leicester, this after another demonstration of committed support in the Pink Link stand the previous week. What a fantastic atmosphere! Even if the result itself was a disappointment.
The forty-six on a full Patrons’ coach were joined for lunch by another nine from the south plus a further seven in a group led by Stuart Sykes, back home for a few days from Oz!
Stuart brought greetings from the New South Wales Supporters group and paid tribute to the twenty-two years’ support given to the Club by the Patrons Association, of which he himself was a founder member. As his sign-off, Stuart led a passionate rendition of Smile Awhile.
As a result of the success of the Leicester trip the Patrons are considering running one to Walsall on April 18th, including the popular lunch venue in Telford, which always comes up trumps! More detail to follow
Please call Martin Lister on 01484 714287 day time to express an interest.
January Meeting
Lee Clark came along to the last meeting in January and left everyone enthused. The 150 plus Town fans asked a series of questions about scouting, coaching, his aims and objectives, beliefs, the coaching team, etc, etc! A great night. Thanks Lee!February Meeting
This takes place next Thursday, 5th February and is the Annual Quiz - a team event involving Huddersfield Town, The Supporters Association, The Media and The Patrons. It’s always a fun night and there are chances for audience participation with lots of spot prizes along the way. Come along for a really fun night and test your football knowledge!PATRONS MEETING
Annual Quiz
Town, Media, HTSA & Patrons
SPOT PRIZES!Thursday 5th February @ 8.00pm –
Fantastic Media Suite, Fantastic Media Stand, Galpharm Stadium.
Arrive early to get a good seat!Huddersfield Town is a Club that is always interested in hearing supporters’ views so please come along to a meeting and chat with a committee member, write to the committee care of the Club, or use the e-mail address info@htafcpatrons.com.
22nd January 2009
The Display Starts!
Readers may remember that towards the end of last year, the Town Supporters Association was proud to announce the acquisition of a unique set of memorabilia belonging to Billy Smith and son, Conway.
We are now able to say that some of the most famous items from that collection are on display at the National Football Museum in Preston. There you can see medals commemorating Town’s illustrious history. Firstly, a cup winner’s medal for 1922, when the winning goal, a penalty, was scored by none other than the medal holder, Billy Smith himself. Then Billy’s three championship medals for 1923/24, 1924/25 and 1925/26. These are accompanied by photographs taken from a unique blotter of the 1930s showing a team photograph for each year of the Club’s history.
We have also begun discussions with the Club and Kirklees Stadium Development Company to try to find a permanent home in the stadium for items from the collection so that Town fans will have an opportunity for themselves to see this great collection.
In the meantime, however, why not give yourselves a treat by visiting the Preston Museum? Entry is free and the museum is open from 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Saturday and 11am to 5pm Sunday. Appropriately a visit to the National Football Museum is 'a game of two halves.' On the ground floor the First Half gallery traces the history of the game and this is where the items described above are to be found. On the first and second floors the Second Half gallery is full of exciting hands-on interactives.
Back to more immediate matters! This Saturday’s Patrons Association trip to Leicester, lunch included for £18, is almost full but there may be a last-minute booking available by ringing Martin Lister on 01484 714287. Alternatively, if you just need to get there, then ring the Supporters Association travel line on 07926 165863 to book your place on the second coach for £12.
15th January 2009
All Four Sides
This week's announcement that the Pink Link Stand is again available to Town fans for Saturday's game against Swindon Town is excellent news, and is testament to the ongoing dialogue between the Club and the Supporters Association.
The Club has made it simpler for season ticket holders to be there by removing the need to exchange tickets in advance. Simply turn up at the South Stand (Pink Link) turnstiles and hand over the ticket from the season ticket book (as well as the £1 'charge'). For those without season tickets, the admission prices are £20 adults, £12 seniors, £10 full-time students and Under 16s.
As Town’s Chairman-elect, Dean Hoyle, has said, “In the four games before Christmas the home fans at the south end of the ground made a real difference to the atmosphere. I really do feel that the fans can be our 12th man.”
Of course, this arrangement is still on a trial basis and fans have to remember the usual stadium rules but let’s go for it, let’s get behind the team and spur our side on to another three points to continue the rise up the table.
Then it’s on to a six-pointer at Leicester. The Supporters Association coach will leave the stadium at 11:30 and prices are £12 and £10 concessions. To book your place, call in to the portacabin on Saturday or call 07926 165863. There will also be a Patrons Association trip with lunch included, setting off from the stadium at 10am, at an inclusive price of £18.8th January 2009
A Busy Week for Lee Clark
Town’s new manager answered questions for 75 minutes at Tuesday night’s packed Patrons meeting and showed those present just why he has been appointed. He is totally committed to making as much progress as possible with Town – and that includes the Premiership! Some of his ideas are revolutionary, he’s a winner and obviously has a great working relationship with Dean Hoyle and Nigel Clibbens.
If you weren’t able to make Tuesday’s meeting then you have another chance this evening to hear Lee for yourself. He will be at the Heavy Woollen group meeting with an 8pm start - Barclays Club, North Rd, Ravensthorpe, WF13 3AH – all Town fans are welcome.
Then, of course, you won’t want to miss Lee’s next appointment - Northampton on Jan 10th ! The Supporters Association coach will leave the stadium at 11am. Prices are £14 and £11 concessions and you can book your place by ringing 07926 165863.
Finally you can complete your football weekend by attending the Football Supporters Federation Yorkshire Division meeting at the KitKat Crescent (York City) on Sunday, January 11th starting 1.00pm with a buffet from midday.
It’s open for all to attend whether you are an individual member of the FSF, an affiliate member through a supporters' organisation or just wanting to find out more, everyone is welcome.
The meeting will look at current FSF campaigns and see how members can get involved with these, or look to set priorities of their own.
If you are planning on attending, register with the divisional secretary alan.bloore@fsf.org.uk so enough food can be ordered!31st December 2008
Happy New Year!
The Supporters Association is proud of the strides that have been made in 2008 but that’s no reason to sit back on our laurels; we must push forward to ensure that HTSA is vibrant, sustainable, fresh and viable.
The Association now has a steady footing with the fans and with the Club itself. The lines of communication that have been established are probably stronger than at any time in the recent past and this is clearly something that we should look to maintain.Those lines of communication include a good working relationship with the Patrons Association, whose first meeting of 2009 offers Town fans a chance to meet Lee Clark and his new team but please note that both the venue and the date are changed.
The date is Tuesday 6th January and the meeting will be held in the Main Banqueting Suite at the Galpharm. This is sure to be a very busy night and you are recommended to get down early. The event starts at 8.00 so try to arrive around 7.30 to get a drink and a seat.
Supporters are also reminded of two other events next week. The Heavy Woollen group meeting will take place as usual on Thursday January 8th. Then, of course, Town are away to Northampton on Jan 10th. The Supporters Association coach will leave the stadium at 11am. Prices are £14 and £11 concessions and you can book your place at the portacabin this Saturday or by ringing 07926 165863.
2008 ends on a very positive note for Town fans and there are high hopes for an exciting second half of the season. Why not give yourself a chance to be more involved by joining the supporters groups? This could be a New Year’s resolution that you won’t regret! More details can be found on the respective websites at www.htsa.co.uk and www.htafcpatrons.com
Happy New Year to all Town fans!
23rd December 2008
Diary Dates
Firstly a last call for Town fans travelling to Carlisle on Boxing Day. The Supporters Association coach will leave the stadium at 11:30am and is priced at £14 and £11 for concessions. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your place.
Saturday’s result against Hereford was a great start for Town’s new management team and Town fans are buzzing again.
There is an early opportunity for supporters to meet the new team at the Patrons’ January meeting but please note that both the venue and the date are changed.
The date is Tuesday 6th January and the meeting will be held in the Main Banqueting Suite at the stadium. This is sure to be a very busy night and you are recommended to get down early. Events start at 8.00 so try to arrive around 7.30 to get a drink and a seat.
2008 has been a tremendous year for Huddersfield Town and its supporters groups with the formation of the Supporters Association as a single group of independent supporters, forging new relationships with the Club and its fans. So we wish ALL Town fans a Happy Christmas – and a belated present of 3 points on Boxing Day!
18th December 2008
A Fresh Start
The Future’s Bright – it’s Blue & White!
Last week saw some major changes for Town, both on the field and off it, with the appointment of a new Chief Executive as well as a new management team. The Supporters Association looks forward to strengthening still further the partnership with the Club and obviously hopes for a resurgent second half of the season. Good luck to all concerned. Let’s all get behind the new-look Town!
The Young Terriers are now on count-down for their Go Pink day this Saturday. As we reported last week, they have been joined in their fund-raising by the Academy matchday ball boys so the chance to sponsor someone has grown significantly.
So come on all you young supporters, dare you wear pink that day? If you’re up to it, get your friends, parents etc. to sponsor you. And come on, all those who know at least one Young Terrier or ball boy, help to fill their sponsorship forms!
Meanwhile, ALL Town fans are urged to Go Pink by filling the Pink Link (South) Stand at the same match (Hereford). Help to create that extra atmosphere to cheer our team on to earn maximum points. The Supporters Association welcomes the Club’s agreement to this experiment. Let’s demonstrate that it could be a permanent arrangement.
Finally, a reminder of the HTSA coach to Carlisle on Boxing Day. The prices are £14 and £11 with an 11:30am departure from the stadium. You can book your place by calling into the portacabin this Saturday; alternatively, you can book by ringing 07926 165863 any weekday between 8am and 8pm.
11th December 2008
Full Circle
Amongst the medals, shirts and caps of the Smith Memorabilia collection we found a Supporters Association handbook for 1922/23 (illustrated). The publication price for something similar today would have to be something a little higher than three-pence! (Just over 1p for those not old enough to remember pre-decimal currency.)
There is a fascinating page inside (also illustrated) with some messages equally applicable today. Leaving aside the fact that the full name in 1922 was Huddersfield Town Shareholders’ and Supporters’ Association, it is surely true that ‘Collective Effort will always beat Individualism’. And the current Supporters’ Association certainly hasn’t accomplished everything - far from it - but we’re giving it a go!
So come on: Join To-day! It might cost £5 instead of 5p (or a bob for those who do remember!) but we hope that this will not deter anyone from getting together for a bit of Collective Effort to add to what has already been achieved by way of putting the supporters’ case to the Club. It’s possible to join on-line at www.htsa.co.uk or by calling into the portacabin (near the barrier at the St. Andrew’s end of the approach road) on match days.
The same portacabin is also where you can book your place on the coach to Carlisle on Boxing Day. The prices are £14 and £11 with an 11:30am departure from the stadium. Alternatively, you can book by ringing 07926 165863 any weekday between 8am and 8pm.
4th December 2008
IN a bold initiative to attract more funds to support the Academy, all Young Terriers are being invited to wear pink for Town’s home match on Saturday, December 20.
So come on all you young supporters, dare you wear pink that day?
If you’re up to it, get your friends, parents etc to sponsor you.
And come on, all those who know at least one Young Terrier, help to fill their sponsorship forms!
As a bit more encouragement, the Young Terrier who brings in the most sponsorship will earn a special prize for her/himself.
You’re sure to be tickled pink with it!!
Meanwhile, ALL Town fans are urged to Go Pink by filling the Pink Link (South) Stand at the next two home matches (against Walsall and Hereford).
Help to create that extra atmosphere to cheer our team on to earn maximum points.
The Supporters Association welcomes the Club’s agreement to this experiment.
Let’s demonstrate that it could be a permanent arrangement.
20th November 2008
Leeds derby policing problems for Town fans
Last weekend’s result at Elland Road was richly enjoyed by Town supporters everywhere.
Unfortunately, the experience for a significant number of fans who attending the Leeds fixture was tarnished before, during, and after the game and many of these fans have contacted the Supporters Association asking us to make their grievances known.
The fact that over 2000 Town fans attended the game despite the exorbitant ticket prices and the usual threat to their own personal safety is to be applauded. However, many Town fans who travelled by train to the game were met on the platform by a plethora of police and then herded out of the station down an alley where they were put onto waiting buses and forced to pay £2.50 for the privilege.
Furthermore, it has been reported that the buses were filled and then parked up over an hour until 12.00 before setting off to the ground and not arriving until 5mins into the game.
The stewarding within the ground was mixed to say the least, and whilst it was a high pressure game for all concerned, some of their decisions seemed to be ill-informed. Two reports in particular from bona fide Town supporters have provided first-hand evidence of over-zealous stewarding and policing, including unnecessary ejection from the ground.
These matters have been reported back to the Club by HTSA and there has already been a co-operative reply. As a consequence, the matter has now been referred to Leeds United FC. There has also been a positive response from Town’s police liaison officer, who is taking up the issues with his counterpart in Leeds. We hope to bring further news as it develops.
On a very different topic, would all Town fans please note that the Supporters Association is holding an open meeting next Thursday (Nov 27), starting at 7:30pm in the Fantastic Media Suite at the stadium. It is planned to exhibit many of the items in the Billy Smith memorabilia collection and we are pleased to say that Gwen and Ian Thomas, the Club’s historians, have agreed to give us an insight into the stories behind the memorabilia. Don’t miss this opportunity to see a unique part of Town’s unique history!
13th November 2008
Home & Away
Following on from the successful opening of the Pink Link Stand for home supporters at the match against Yeovil, pioneered by the Supporters Association, the Club is planning to repeat the move at the next three home matches before Christmas. Over 600 supporters got behind the team, literally, for the Tuesday match against Yeovil so let’s try to up the count, the support and the noise for the matches against Orient, Walsall and Hereford.
As we said last week, the Southern Group is holding its second meeting in Brighton before the match there a week on Saturday (Nov 22). This will be a joint meeting with the Southern Patrons and starts at 12 noon when Paul Ogden and Kieran O'Regan have agreed to meet fans for a question and answer session. The venue is Preston Park Hotel, next to Preston Park station, which makes it very handy for those opting to use their travel voucher ticket to get to The Withdean by train. There will then be time for lunch and/or a drink before leaving for the short walk to the match.
The same day sees the inaugural meeting of the North West Group, arranged for 12:30 at The Grapes, Wrea Green, Kirkham, Preston (more info at http://www.pub-explorer.com/lancs/pub/grapeshotelwreagreen.htm ). Come along and hear more about the Supporters Association and maybe play your part in organising future events for this latest regional group. It’s also a chance to make arrangements to share journeys fot home matches in these credit-crunch times. Please ring the HTSA travel number, 07926 165863, for further details.
Continuing on the theme of regional groups – this time nearer home – tonight is this month’s meeting of the Heavy Woollen group at Barclays Club, 189-191 North Road, Ravensthorpe, WF13 3AH, starting at 7:30pm
Finally, there are still a few places available on the Supporters Association coach to Leeds so please ring 07926 165863 to book your place. Departure time from the Galpharm is 10:30am and the price to members is £8 Adult or £6.50 for Juniors. The premium for non-members is £2.
6th November 2008
Away Days
The Supporters Association coach to Leeds is already filling up so please get in touch to book your place. Departure time from the Galpharm is 10:30am and the price to members is £8 Adult or £6.50 for Juniors. The premium for non-members is £2. 07926 165863 is the number to ring.
Now that the Southern Group is up and running and due to hold its second meeting in Brighton before the match there, the same date (Nov 22) will also see the beginning of a North West Regional Group.
This has been arranged for 12:30 at The Grapes, Wrea Green, Kirkham, Preston (more info at http://www.pub-explorer.com/lancs/pub/grapeshotelwreagreen.htm ). For all those suffering from withdrawal symptoms at not being in Brighton, there is the option of watching the local match between AFC Fylde and Formby, following the meeting. Fylde are currently riding high at the top of the Vodkat North West Counties Premier Division and have scored 44 goals in 14 matches. Admission prices are £5 and £3 concessions, so it could be an inexpensive day out! Come along and hear more about the Supporters Association and maybe play your part in organising future events for this latest regional group.
We’re always keen to hear your views, what you want a Supporters group to do for you, and how your matchday experience can be improved. Please get in touch either by writing to: HTSA PO Box 1908 Huddersfield HD4 6WT or by emailing info@htsa.co.uk and don’t forget to keep in touch with the latest events on www.htsa.co.uk
Finally, a last-minute reminder that Mark Lillis will be the guest at tonight’s Patrons meeting at the Galpharm. All Town fans are welcome to come along and meet a firm Town favourite in the Fantastic Media Suite at 8pm.
23rd October 2008
After a lot of time and effort behind the scenes, the Supporters Association has convinced the Club to allow Town fans in the Pink Link Stand, which is normally the reserve of away fans only, when Yeovil Town are Town’s next visitors on Tuesday 28th October (kick off 7.45).
Over the last few months we have stressed the importance of this initiative as many fans feel it will help to generate a better atmosphere within the ground. The club has talked extensively to KSDL, the safety team at the Galpharm Stadium and the Events panel – which includes the emergency services such as the police – about making the Pink Link Stand available to home fans and HTSA would like to thank all parties for their work towards this goal.
Many obstacles have been overcome and we are confident it will be a success, and that this scenario can then be repeated several times this season. Because of the subsequent increased stewarding costs there will be an administration charge (£1 adults and 50p concessions) for season-ticket holders who swap their seat to one in the Pink Link Stand seat for the game.
All tickets and exchanges must be purchased by 5.00pm on Monday 27th October, with no Pink Link Stand turnstile availability for home fans on the night. Any fan unable to get to the ground prior to this due to location or work responsibilities can ring the HTFC Ticket Office on 0870 44 44 552 and they will produce a ticket for you that can be exchanged for Matchday Voucher No.7 on the night of the game.
We would urge all Town fans to get behind this and cheer our team from the Pink Link Stand against Yeovil. Our support can really make a difference.
Annual membership of HTSA is free to Under 8s, £2.00 for 8-13 years, and £5.00 for those aged over 13. You can now sign up on-line on the website: www.htsa.co.uk – or simply download a membership form from there.
We organise coach travel to each away game during the new season (to book your place contact Michael Scott on 07926 165863) or look for details of upcoming trips on www.htsa.co.uk. This Saturday is a joint trip with the Patrons, leaving the stadium at 9:15am for a lunch stop in Peterborough. Please contact the number above or ring Martin Lister on 01484 714287.
We’re always keen to hear your views, what you want a Supporters group to do for you, and how your matchday experience can be improved. Please get in touch either by writing to: HTSA PO Box 1908 Huddersfield HD4 6WT or by emailing info@htsa.co.uk.
Huddersfield Town is our club. HTSA is your voice. The bigger the membership, the louder the voice!
16th October 2008
Regional Groups
Last Saturday a group of southern-based Town supporters had a very satisfactory day out in Swindon – not just the delights of the Magic Roundabout either!
The afternoon saw a convincing Town win with a penalty save and two cracking goals to add to the early strike by Dickinson to send us all home happy.
This had been preceded by a joint meeting of the Southern Patrons and the Southern Group of the Supporters Association for an excellent Q&A session with Chairman-elect, Dean Hoyle, who was as open and honest as ever and earned the respect of all those there. Many of the Patrons stalwarts described it as the best meeting they could remember and our thanks are due to Dean for taking the time and trouble to make it so.
This was the first such meeting for those new to HTSA – so a hard act to follow! But we’ll certainly try!
For all supporters in the south, members or not, please have a look at www.htsa.co.uk for more information and for the contact details of Andy Kilvington, who is coordinating activities as well as shared transport.
The Supporters Association is also keen to establish other regional groups and plans are being made for the North-West area. Please let us know if you’re interested in learning more or helping out, there or anywhere else. We can be contacted via the website above or by writing to PO Box 1908 Huddersfield HD4 6WT or by phoning 07798 727782.
Now for some travel updates. The Supporters Association is running a coach to Hartlepool next Tuesday at the later start time of 16:45 - prices £12 (Adult) and £9 (Junior).
There is a joint Patrons and Supporters Association coach to Peterborough a week on Saturday, leaving the stadium at 9:15am. The price of £22 includes an excellent 2-course lunch - to book your seat ring 07926 165863 or 01484 714287.
Alternatively, call into the portacabin this Saturday to book your place and please note that this will be open AFTER the match as well as before it.
9th October 2008
Match Day Travel
Why not travel to Town’s home matches the hassle-free, not to mention the environmentally-friendly, way?
Starting at 1pm, buses run from the centre of Huddersfield to the stadium, with the return trip at 5:15 or 5:20pm, starting from Crosset Street, just round the corner from Stadium Way, in St Andrews Road.
This is the bus for you, whether you come to the match by bus, train or car. The starting point is Stop M1 in Market Street (outside the Plumbers Arms) and is the most convenient stop if you travel into the Bus Station. The second pick-up point is Stop W1 in Westgate (outside the Byram Arcade), which is only a short walk from the Train Station. There is a third pick-up point at Stop K4 in Lord Street.
So why not leave the car at home instead of struggling to find an expensive parking spot near the ground?The return fare from the town centre is £1.50 but if you travel by bus from home then a full return fare is only £3.50. In all cases, 50p of the fare is contributed to Town’s Academy to give you a double feel-good factor!
Finally, a last-minute reminder that there are still places available on the Supporters Association coach to Swindon this Saturday, leaving the stadium at 9am. Prices are £20 for adults and £10 for juniors and you can book your seat by ringing 07926 165863 between 8 and 8.
2nd October 2008
The Trust is Dead – Long Live the Association!
Two meetings were held at the Turnbridge WMC last week.
The first one was the sixth and last AGM of the Supporters Trust, where it was agreed to merge with other groups into the new, unified, Huddersfield Town Supporters Association and to transfer the net balance of the current account to the Association. It was also agreed to hold the reserve of £50,000 in trust pending further progress on the Storthes Hall project.
This meeting was followed by the first meeting of a permanent Board for the new Association and it was agreed to set up the following areas of responsibility:
Chair; Co. Secretary/Membership; PR/Internet; Club; Travel/Social; Community plus representation for the Young Terriers and the Disabled Supporters group.
The Association is the one independent group for ALL supporters of Huddersfield Town with membership now past the 700 mark. Please get in touch with us if you have any queries or requests for action, either by writing to PO Box 1908 Huddersfield HD4 6WT or by emailing one of the individuals on the Contact Us page of www.htsa.co.uk
Any Town fans planning to go to Darlington next Tuesday should be aware that the Association is running a joint coach with the Travel Club, leaving at 4:15pm and priced at £13. Please ring 07926 165863 to book your place.
Finally, this is a last minute reminder of tonight’s Patrons Association meeting at 8pm in the Fantastic Media Suite at the Galpharm. As announced yesterday, Chris Lucketti will be a guest in addition to Ann Hough and John Robinson (Stadium Safety Officer) answering questions on stewarding issues at the stadium.
18th September 2008
Latest Update
Huddersfield Town Supporters Association continues to campaign for supporters rights and is currently active in pursuing issues relating to stewarding and policing both at home and away. Many supporters acknowledge and appreciate much of the stewarding at the Galpharm but there is also a sense of injustice at perceived anomalies and inconsistencies Please get in touch either by emailing info@htsa.co.uk or by writing to PO Box 1908, Huddersfield, HD4 6WT if you have any information or queries relating to this.
We are pleased to report that the new secure on-line payment facility at www.htsa.co.uk is attracting a steady stream of new members to the Supporters Association. Full membership is only £5 – to cover costs – with 8-13 membership being £2. Of course it’s still possible to join by completing and returning a downloadable form from the same website or by calling into the portacabin on match days – open at every home game.
In addition to the local group of Heavy Woollen supporters, who held a very successful meeting last week with Dean Hoyle as the guest speaker, the first regional group has also been formed in the Greater London area. Onwards and upwards!
If anyone is willing to help run the Association by joining the committee, please come along next Wednesday (Sept 24th) at 8pm to the Turnbridge WMC on St. Andrews Road, when the present Steering Committee will be formalised into a permanent arrangement.
As usual, we shall be running an Away coach to the Oldham game next Saturday (September 27), leaving the Galpharm at 1pm. Adult fare is £9 and Juniors are £7. If you want to book for this or if you are interested in travelling by HTSA coach to the Darlington game on Oct 7th please let us know by ringing 07926 165863.
11th September 2008
HTSA Update
Firstly, would Town fans please note that Dean Hoyle (Chairman-elect) is to be the guest at tonight’s Heavy Woollen meeting, to be held at Barclays Club, North Road, Ravensthorpe, with an 8pm start. All those who went to last week’s Patrons meeting will confirm that a meeting with Dean is one not to miss if at all possible. His honesty and ambition is infectious so why not take time out to hear what he has to say? You shouldn’t be disappointed!
Secondly, thanks to our webmaster, Andrew Firth, it’s now easier to join the Association by means of a secure on-line payment facility at www.htsa.co.uk. Full membership is only £5 – to cover costs – with 8-13 membership being £2. Huddersfield Town is our Club. HTSA is your voice. The bigger the membership, the louder the voice! Of course it’s still possible to join by completing and returning a downloadable form from the same website or by calling into the portacabin on match days – open this Saturday as usual.
For all those who have already joined but not yet received a membership card please bear with us while we organise post etc. It would obviously help to reduce postage costs if members were able to call at the portacabin to collect their cards, otherwise they should be with you next week at the latest.
4th September 2008
Moving On
Members of the Supporters Trust, formed during the 2003 crisis, should have received notification of the AGM arranged for Wednesday, September 24th to be held at the Turnbridge WMC, starting at 7:30pm.
Following the amalgamation of the Trust and the Supporters Club, together with other groups, to form the unified Huddersfield Town Supporters Association, the AGM is expected to see the formal closure of the Trust and the transfer of its assets to the Association. Perhaps the most interesting item on the agenda is the future of the Trust’s £50K Reserve for the Storthes Hall developments. Members are urged to make their opinions known at the meeting.
This will be followed by the final meeting of the Association’s Steering Committee prior to the formation of a formal Board. Anyone interested in being part of this should come to the Turnbridge that evening.
Talking of the Association, would all those who have not yet received a membership card please bear with us while we organise post etc. It would obviously help to reduce postage costs if members are able to call at the portacabin at the next home match to collect their cards.
This Saturday sees another long away trip – to Cheltenham. Last week’s coach to Millwall included a contingent of Young Terriers and their immaculate behaviour augurs well for the future of Town’s support, as well as being a vote of confidence in their organisers. Details for Saturday follow.
Prices: Adults £15.00, Juniors £12.00; non-members can travel at the cost of an extra £2.00. Coaches will leave from the usual place by the stadium swimming pool entrance at 9:30am.
Bookings can be made by phoning 07926 165863 (between 8.00am & 8.00pm). Don’t miss Town’s first league win of the season!
28th August 2008
Patrons Patter
Well it hasn’t been the start we all hoped for but given the massive changes to the squad it was always likely to take time for all our new friends to settle into their magnificent surroundings. It’s great to see Chris Lucketti back. He was one of our best Captains on and off the pitch in recent years and a great pro.
The Patrons’ season is well underway with the first meeting in August already having taken place with Jeppo and Doc as guests. The next few are already in the pipeline with September set aside for new players, October for the Board and November for ex-players – Mark Lillis is already up for that one. Keep your eyes on the website, the Programme and the Examiner, of course, for news.
Patrons Travel
We have two Patrons Travel trips lined up too. The first one is to Peterborough on Saturday 25th October. A 9.15 start to the journey on our executive coach, a 2 course carvery lunch at a lovely pub near Peterborough, possible guests and/or speakers. Transfer to the ground for the match and a nice relaxed journey home basking in the glory of a great victory. Well that’s the plan! And all for only £22!
HTSA & The Patrons Association
It’s great to see an organisation that combines all the independent supporters’ organisations. A strong voice should be the result and we on the Patrons Committee wish the organisation every success and recommend all Town fans join up.
If you are wondering how come the Patrons Association isn’t a part of it then you are one of the large number who don’t know that the Patrons is a Club-owned organisation. Although the committee is made up of volunteers all subscriptions go directly to the Development Association and therefore help fund Town’s award-winning academy. This close link doesn’t mean that members can’t speak their minds! In fact just the opposite. The £21,000 that members contribute gives the Association a voice and the monthly meetings are just one obvious way of getting the messages across. So, if you want to get a bit more knowledge about things at our Club or just want to be entertained, come to a monthly meeting. They generally attract a good audience, all fellow Town fans, and if you do come alone you will soon find you are among friends! Normally they are on the 1st Thursday of the month but at the request of our Manager the next meeting will be next Wednesday to allow more time for players who will travel to Cheltenham on the Saturday.
Ask a question or just listen to the answers. It’s a good social evening for all Town fans, no dress code, and no age limits. Come to the next one and see what it’s all about.
STICK IT IN YOUR DIARY!
PATRONS MEETING
New Players- WEDNESDAY 3rd September @ 8.00pm –
!YES WEDNESDAY!
Panasonic Suite, Fantastic Media Stand, Galpharm Stadium.
Arrive early to get a good seat!The Club are always interested to hear supporters’ views so please come along to a meeting and chat with a committee member, write to the committee care of the Club or use the e-mail address info@htafcpatrons.com.
The same address can be used for anyone interested in joining the Association and for any members who want to join the Patrons Committee. We are always keen to welcome new blood aboard, especially those with a small amount of time and/or skills to offer and who can help us represent as broad a range of Town fans as possible.
Look out for details of future events here, in the Match programme and on any other media we can manage. We tend to use the online e-mail lists and fan-sites wherever we can.
Further information can be found at www.htafcpatrons.com
21st August 2008
Yet More New Signings
Stan’s still at it with more exciting signings announced this week - and so is the Supporters Association.
Last week we were proud to announce that Reece Dinsdale had agreed to become our first Vice President. This week we are equally proud to announce that Patrick Stewart, currently playing in Hamlet at Stratford, has also agreed to become a Vice President of the Association, strengthening still further his ties with Huddersfield where he is already the Chancellor of the University.
Whilst we’re making announcements, look out in the matchday programme, or the Club’s website, for news of HTSA’s shirt sponsorship deal for David Unsworth.
So why not join up too? You know it makes sense! Huddersfield Town is our Club. HTSA is your voice. The bigger the membership, the louder the voice!
Perhaps the easiest way to join is by calling into the portacabin (next to the barrier at the end of the St. Andrews coach park) before any home match. Otherwise, you can download an application form from the website at www.htsa.co.uk
Next week it’s another long away trip – this time to Millwall. As usual, there will be a Supporters Association coach and there are still a few places available. Why not join us and save money on this lengthy journey.
Prices are: Adults £20.00, Juniors £15.00. Coaches will leave from the usual place by the swimming pool entrance; non-members can travel at the cost of an extra £2.00. Departure time is 9.00am.
If demand is great enough a pick up & drop off point in Dewsbury may be arranged. Bookings can be made by phoning 07926 165863 (between 8.00am & 8.00pm) or by calling at the portacabin.
And don’t forget that this Saturday, First Bus will be running a shuttle service from the town centre to the stadium. The price is £1.50 return from/to the town centre or £3.50 return as a through service from your own starting point. The service begins at 1pm on Saturdays and the pick-up points are Stand M1 in Market Street (opposite the Plumbers Arms), Stand W1 in Westgate (outside Byram Arcade) or Stand K4 in Lord Street.
This is a joint initiative by the Club and HTSA and it is hoped that supporters will use this as a solution to parking problems near the stadium.
14th August 2008
More New Signings
Stan Ternent isn’t the only one busily building a new squad. The Supporters Association is growing steadily and has added more star names to its list of members.
First it was Town’s No. 1 Fan, Chairman-elect Dean Hoyle, joining up. Then came Agent 007 – not the Connery version but the real Sean – Jarvis, who has ‘bonded’ to the Association and taken membership card number 7.
Now, the Association is proud to announce that Reece Dinsdale (star of ID and much more and Coronation Street’s latest incomer) has agreed to become our first Vice President.
So why not jump on the bandwagon and join the Supporters Association so that we can be as representative as possible in our dealings with the Club. Huddersfield Town is our Club. HTSA is your voice. The bigger the membership, the louder the voice!
Perhaps the easiest way to join is by calling into the portacabin (next to the barrier at the end of the St. Andrews coach park) before any home match. Otherwise, you can download an application form from the website at www.htsa.co.uk
This is also a final reminder of the trip to Colchester this Saturday – your chance to add another new ground to your tally.
Prices are: Adults £20.00, Juniors £15.00. Coaches will leave from the usual place by the swimming pool entrance; non-members can travel at the cost of an extra £2.00. Departure time for Colchester is 9.00am.
If demand is great enough a pick up & drop off point in Dewsbury may be arranged. Bookings can be made by phoning 07926 165863 (between 8.00am & 8.00pm) or by calling at the portacabin.
Talking of buses – fans are reminded that First Bus are now running a shuttle service on match days from the town centre to the stadium. The price is £1.50 return from/to the town centre or £3.50 return as a through service from your own starting point. The service begins at 1pm on Saturdays and the pick-up points are Stand M1 in Market Street (opposite the Plumbers Arms), Stand W1 in Westgate (outside Byram Arcade) or Stand K4 in Lord Street.
This is a joint initiative by the Club and HTSA and it is hoped that supporters will use this as a solution to parking problems near the stadium.
7th August 2008
Here We Go!
Yesterday Arsenal, in two days Stockport County. Yes, Town’s Centenary Season is here!
Why not get the season off to a good start tonight by coming along to the Patrons meeting? Your chance to quiz Ronnie Jepson and Mick Docherty on Town’s prospects and who the next signing might be!
Please note that this meeting will be in the Banqueting Suite of the main stand (not the usual venue in the Fantastic Media Suite). The start time is the normal one of 8.00pm and ALL Town fans are most welcome.
Similarly, all Town fans are urged to join the Supporters Association so that we can be as representative as possible in our dealings with the Club. Huddersfield Town is our Club. HTSA is your voice. The bigger the membership, the louder the voice!
Perhaps the easiest way to join is by calling into the portacabin (next to the barrier at the end of the St. Andrews coach park) before any home match. Otherwise, you can download an application form from the website at www.htsa.co.uk
Carrying on from where the Supporters Club left off, the Association is organising Away match travel, starting with Colchester a week on Saturday – your chance to add another new ground to your tally.
Prices are: Adults £20.00, Juniors £15.00. Coaches will leave from the usual place by the swimming pool entrance; non-members can travel at the cost of an extra £2.00. Departure time for Colchester is 9.00am.
If demand is great enough a pick up & drop off point in Dewsbury may be arranged. Bookings can be made by phoning 07926 165863 (between 8.00am & 8.00pm) or by calling at the portacabin.
31st July 2008
As summer finally arrives, the football season gets ever closer and Town fans are even more eager than usual with some high expectations that the Centenary Year will be especially rewarding.
One of the markers for the new season is the re-start of the regular Patrons meetings with the first Thursday in August and next week the special guests will be Ronnie Jepson and Mick Docherty. Plenty Town fans will have many good memories of Ronnie as a player and will be intrigued to hear what he and our new coach have to say for themselves.
Please note that this meeting will be in the Banqueting Suite of the main stand (not the usual venue in the Fantastic Media Suite). The start time is the normal one of 8pm and ALL Town fans are most welcome.
This Saturday sees our first home game and supporters will have a chance to join the Supporters Association by calling into the portacabin next to the barrier at the end of the St. Andrews coach park.
A lot has been achieved already, including a new return bus service on match days between the centre of Town and the stadium. Look out both here and on the Association’s website for further details. Meetings have been held to try to improve the match day catering and a series of regular meetings between Club and Association is now in place as well.
Annual membership is free to Under 8s, £2.00 for 8-13 years, and £5.00 for those aged over 13 so why not join and help to unite the fans and the club in one common goal. If you can’t call into the portacabin then look out for a leaflet either this Saturday or next Wednesday. Failing that, membership forms can be downloaded from the website at www.htsa.co.uk
Don’t forget that all those joining up before the start of the season will be eligible for the draw to allocate five memberships for Town’s new Centenary Club – the great facility to allow you to relax in the Fantastic Media Suite both before and after every League match.
24th July 2008
Firstly an apology to the Shaw brothers for mistakenly attributing their involvement with the Leeds Road turnstile to Shaw Timber. That should have read Shaw Pallet and the correct name will be recorded on the plaque to go on the gates.
Now we focus on membership of Huddersfield Town Supporters Association - the new unified supporters group for all fans of our club, Huddersfield Town. Your supporters group intends to keep pace with the club’s recent vibrancy and we hope to provide a proactive group which can inform, entertain and help potentially all Huddersfield Town fans.
Annual membership is free to Under 8s, £2.00 for 8-13 years, and £5.00 for those aged over 13. Membership forms can be downloaded from our website at www.htsa.co.uk
As an added incentive to joining, HTSA has negotiated ten memberships of the Centenary Club, whereby members can relax both before and after matches in the Fantastic Media Suite. Five of these will be awarded on a random-draw basis to all those who join the Association before the start of the season. The other five will be allocated on a match-by-match basis.
You can send your completed form to PO Box 1908 Huddersfield HD4 6WT or why not visit the Supporters portacabin before the Sheffield United or Arsenal games? Membership cards should be available then – for those who have already joined, cards will be sent out as soon as possible.
One final point on Away Travel. We are able to arrange an extra pick-up point in Dewsbury if required so please let us know if this would be useful, either by post to the address above or by phone to 07926 165863 or by email to info@htsa.co.uk
17th July 2008
This week saw work begin on the re-siting of the old Leeds Road turnstile gates at the Galpharm. Readers may recall that these had been erected at Shaw Timber in Slaithwaite but had suffered storm damage earlier this year.
Thanks to some very careful demolition work by Stephen and Michael Shaw the gates remain intact and will figure prominently on the bank at the southern end of the Antich stand. It is hoped that all will be ready before the beginning of the new season.
The project has been made possible by a generous bequest from the will of Peter MacGibbon, which will be supplemented jointly by the Club and Huddersfield Town Supporters Association. It is proposed to record the following message on the gate wall when completed:
Thanks to Shaw Timber, these turnstile gates, from the original Leeds Road ground, are here to commemorate all Town fans who are no longer with us, in particular Peter MacGibbon (1937-2007) whose bequest made this project possible.
"For a while upon the field of play
Thousands came to cheer them on their way"10th July 2008
Huddersfield Town Supporters Association is the new unified supporters group for all fans of our club, Huddersfield Town. Your supporters group intends to keep pace with the club’s recent vibrancy and we hope to provide a proactive group which can inform, entertain and help potentially all Huddersfield Town fans.
Annual membership is free to Under 8s, £2.00 for 8-13 years, and £5.00 for those aged over 13. Membership forms can be downloaded from our website at www.htsa.co.uk and as we approach the new season we will also update any information to keep it relevant.
Membership forms can be completed at tomorrow evening’s HTAFC Open Day where we will have a table set up within the stadium.
As well as organising coach travel to each away game during the new season (contact Michael Scott on 07926 165863), we have also been working with HTAFC and First Buses to instigate an initiative for travelling to home games.
Town fans will be able to catch any First Bus within the area to Huddersfield town centre, and then catch one of the new shuttle buses running directly to the stadium at 15 minute intervals. The return trips will also be included in the price. It is hoped that this could help to alleviate potential parking problems with the forthcoming season’s increased crowds flocking to the stadium. Further details, and prices, will be announced shortly.
We’re keen to hear your views, what you want a Supporters group to do for you, and how your matchday experience can be improved. Please get in touch either by writing to HTSA, PO Box 1908 Huddersfield HD4 6WT or by emailing info@htsa.co.uk.
Huddersfield Town is our club. HTSA is your voice. The bigger the membership, the louder the voice!
3rd July 2008
Huddersfield Town Supporters Association continues to go from strength to strength, and the membership continues to increase on a daily basis. Your unified supporters group aims to represent and articulate the democratic view of Town fans on the issues which are important to them. This week we met with Sean Jarvis to discuss several initiatives which will benefit us, the supporters e.g. catering, travel to the stadium, and stewarding. Further details will develop in due course.
Annual membership is a maximum of £5.00, and further details can be found on our website at www.htsa.co.uk and as we approach the new season we aim to include more & more information.
Continuing where the Supporters Club left off, HTSA will be organising coach travel to each away game during the new season, with pick up points at the stadium and in Dewsbury. If you would like to secure a seat for a particular game please contact Michael Scott on 07926 165863. Members of HTSA will travel at a subsidised rate, and will benefit from inclusive travel insurance whilst travelling to the game, and within the stadium. These are among the many reasons to join the supporters group.
Membership forms will be handed out at the HTAFC Open Day on 11th July, and also at the pre season games against Sheffield United on August 2nd and Arsenal on August 6th.
On a matchday throughout the season the HTSA portacabin (formerly the Supporters Club portacabin) at the top of the hill by the St Andrews Rd car park will be open for people to become members, or sign up for coach travel to any of the club’s away games, for which HTSA members will pay a reduced amount.
We’re keen to hear your views, what you want a Supporters group to do for you, so please get in touch whether by writing to HTSA, PO Box 1908 Huddersfield HD4 6WT or by emailing info@htsa.co.uk.
Huddersfield Town is our club. HTSA is your voice. The bigger the membership, the louder the voice!
26th June 2008
The steering committee of Huddersfield Town Supporters Association met on Tuesday to ensure continued progress of the new unified supporters group.
We are a members’ organisation and we shall represent and articulate the democratic view of our members on the issues which are important to them. Huddersfield Town is our club. HTSA is your voice. The bigger the membership, the louder the voice!
Annual membership is a maximum of £5.00.
Hundreds of membership forms were handed out at the kit launch last Thursday evening. If you have yet to see one then rest assured over the coming weeks everyone will have the opportunity to become a member.
You can download a form as part of our new website www.htsa.co.uk.
A Facebook group has also been set up - look for HTSA as a group, or get there directly at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17097624402.
Forms will be handed out at the HTAFC Open Day which will be held in early July at the stadium, and also at the pre season games against Sheffield United on August 2nd and Arsenal on August 6th.
On matchdays throughout the season the HTSA portacabin (formerly the Supporters Club portacabin) at the top of the hill by the St Andrews Rd car park will be open for people to become members, or sign up for coach travel to any of the club’s away games, for which HTSA members will pay a reduced amount.
We’re keen to hear your views, what you want a Supporters group to do for you, so please get in touch whether by writing to HTSA, PO Box 1908 Huddersfield HD4 6WT or by emailing info@htsa.co.uk.
