SUMMARY OF LATEST TUST BOARD MEETING
Partnership with Torquay United Community Sports Trust (TUCST)
We welcomed Matt Anthony, the recently appointed manager of TUCST who stated how keen he was to build on the strong partnership between TUST and TUCST.
He then gave a presentation on how TUCST proposes to use the balance of the Premier League Fans Fund (approx. £1,850) to provide ‘Stay At Home Training Packs’ for the Torquay United Inspirations group of physically or mentally disabled supporters. He explained how much the junior and adult members of TUI were missing their regular training sessions and friendly tournaments during the pandemic. The idea was to provide a training top and shorts, a ball and cones to each member so that they could train at home and follow on-line sessions. The tops would carry the TUCST and TUST logos and would provide good PR for both organisations.
The board considered the proposal to be a great idea that aligns with the requirement for the Premier League Fans Fund to be used to support community projects that promote inclusion and physical or mental health. It was unanimously agreed that the balance of PLFF money should be used for this purpose.
In addition, TUST agreed to offer TUCST a further allocation of £700 from its own community outreach funds towards the cost of providing mid-layer tops bearing the TUST logo.
National League Update
Nick Brodrick updated the board on the latest position in the constantly evolving discussion about the future of the current season for the National League clubs. The most contentious issue was the government’s offer of loans rather than grants to assist member clubs. TUST had written to the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and local MPs requesting this decision be reversed, Nick informed the board of a petition launched by the NL asking the government to reconsider. It was suggested that this should be flagged up for TUST members to sign via a bulletin and on social media.
The 66 members of the NL were being consulted about a range of options which could see all three leagues continue or the season declared null and void for all teams or the NL continue but NL North and South ceasing.
There was much discussion about the situation and reference was made to individuals’ correspondence on the matter with local MPs, the work of the Football Supporters Association (FSA), and football journalist Ollie Bayliss’ request for details under the Freedom of Information Act.
Nick will keep members updated on progress via his Fans Zone articles.
Football Supporters Association
TUST representatives had attended a FSA webinar the previous week about the future governance of football. Trust members from a wide cross-section of the game were present but notably none from Premier League.
Key points discussed included the proposal for a fan-led review, a fit and proper person test for club owners/directors and strengthening the powers of the Asset of Community Value legislation.
Devon / SW Supporters Trust Group
Nick Brodrick summarised the meeting of the group hosted by TUST on 28th January.
It had been agreed to extend the group across the region and rename it the SW Supporters Trust Group. Founding members are TUST and the trusts of Plymouth Argyle, Exeter City, Yeovil Town, Bristol City and Hereford United.
Items discussed had included the arrangements made by clubs for the return of fans (widely praised), the financial support available to clubs at various levels of the game and the relationship between trusts and club ownership (often not fulfilling acceptable levels of engagement).
Plymouth Football Boot Bank
Rob Burkitt drew attention to this charity which had been successfully collecting unwanted boots and other kit and recycling them to those in need. It was suggested that TUCST and the Club might consider setting up a collection point when Covid restrictions ease.
Proud Away Sponsor of Kyle Cameron
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TORQUAYTALK 