HOW can we at Real Progress turn a negative into a positive? To some supporters of Blackpool Football Club "Real Progress" seems to conjure up negative images and ideas.
We are unsure how this perception has come about and exactly why some have formed the assumption we are a negative outfit.
From the early days we have always tried to portray ourselves as positive in our approach although we are, of course, an independent association.
Admittedly, we were formed during a bleak and negative period at Bloomfield Road last autumn but we only aim to be positive.
We are not all 'doom and gloom' mo-ngers; we want to bring former fans back to Bloomfield Road (as exemplified by our detailed lapsed fans survey, the second part of which appears below); we want to actively promote Blackpool FC; we want to make all our supporters feel part ofthe club and keep them better informed and following the Seasiders.
We have no desire to be negative in our policies or in our attitude although there will inevitably be occasions when negative elements come into play from time to time.
We are aware opinions of us as a group cannot be changed overnight but we urge those who see us only as negative to give us a chance. After all, 250 or so fans have done just that and joined us already. Why not find out what we're all about, and what we aim to do - and achieve - before judging us?
Ruth Tuffnell, Real Progress Committee
Lapsed Fans Survey results (continued):
The Drummer: Many more mature lapsed fans made reference to the "tuneless" and "irritating" noise generated by the match day drummer. Others comment if the big clubs such as Man United or Celtic, don't need one why do we? A designated 'singing area' within the new ground may provide a solution.
Cost: Many have stopped attending due to the high cost. Reasons include being unable to afford the price of taking their families to matches particularly as special deals for children (quid a kid etc.) appear to have dried up.
Staff: Many were disappointed by the treatment they often received from the staff at the club often finding them unhelpful and impolite. Staff in the shop showed a lack of both training and experience, often knowing little about the range of merchandise on sale. The results have also shown discontent with ticketing staff especially by supporters who live away from the Fylde.
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