Thursday 3rd August 2017
HEARD the one about the supporters who raised money for their club by playing football and having a laugh?
You might well be one of them – and that’s not even a joke.
Last month, the Sons Supporters Trust held its fundraising ‘Play for the Sons’ day, the proceeds of which will be given to the club at Saturday’s game with Morton.
The event consisted of a match in the afternoon between two teams of supporters, which ended in a thrilling 3-3 draw.
That was followed by a curry and comedy night at what is now the YOUR Radio 103FM Stadium, which, courtesy of sterling efforts on the part of several fans, was a sell-out.
All money raised at each event will benefit Dumbarton FC, and it’s a gesture which Trust communications officer Simon Barrow is excited about making.
He said: “The entire day, from start to finish, was excellent.
“But we hope that the best part is still to come – presenting the money to Dumbarton, which we will do on Saturday.
“The events summed up what we, as a Trust, are passionate about – helping Dumbarton FC reach its potential.
“We were delighted with the response we received when places in the teams for the match went on sale. It is clear just how many of our supporters dream of playing on the hallowed turf of Dumbarton.
“Then the curry and comedy night allowed fans to mix in a relaxed atmosphere – not something we’ll do often on a Saturday from now until the end of April!
“We’re chuffed that an idea which required so much planning, organisation and hard work on many people’s behalf proved to be such a success.”
Now it’s on to the next goal – reaching 400 members for the season about to start.
Since its foundation, the Trust’s membership numbers have steadily grown, but there is never such a thing as enough members.
And with the supporters set to once again play a major part at Dumbarton over the coming season, more are encouraged to come on board.
Simon added: “The benefits of being a Trust member are enormous.
“The biggest one is obvious – you get to have a say in the future of YOUR football club.
“But there are others as well. You get discounted matchday travel on our supporters’ buses, and access to organised events, including the end-of-season awards night.
“The Trust is also constantly in touch with the Club’s continued dialogue concerning plans for its future.
“For this season, we’d love to reach 400 members, and it’s a number we think is realistic.
“Our membership secretary, Tommy Hughes, is busy on many fronts – but he’s never too busy where DFC or the Trust is concerned.
“We have a dedicated table in the supporters’ bar at every home matchday, and will be delighted to hear from you.
“The more members we have, the more we can keep the supporters involved at Dumbarton FC.”
More information on the Sons Supporters Trust, including how to join and help it reach its 400 target, is available at www.sonstrust.net
Join the debate @dumbartonfc #sons24
Andy Galloway