Thursday 4th February 2021
IT is closing in on a year since Dumbarton supporters were able to gather at the C&G Systems Stadium.
Robbi Docherty is no different. And in her 15th year as a Sons fan, watching remotely is an experience which is taking some getting used to.
But the club’s supporter liaison officer is working hard to be the link between the club and its supporters.
Appointed in the role last year, Robbi is assisted by deputy Jack Brough in keeping the fans in touch with what is going on in their continued absence on matchdays.
A survey on the matchday experience has recently been launched, but Robbi does not want supporter contributions to end there in making the C&G Systems Stadium the place to be every other Saturday once restrictions are lifted.
She said: “I took up supporting Dumbarton in 2006 when my son and I came to a game that was set aside as a ‘fan day’ by the club.
“I’ve been hooked ever since, and being part of two promotions, a cup final and six seasons in the Championship are just some of the special times that stand out during that period.
“I want to do the best I can to help the supporters be part of the club they all love. That’s why I jumped at the chance to become supporter liaison officer.
“We are now seeing more than ever that supporters are vital to the continued existence and success of their football club.
“The team behind the scenes at DFC is a hardworking one, but we are always open to new ideas from our supporters. Anybody who wishes to express any of those – please, contact us.
“We have also recently launched a survey on how the matchday experience can be improved and everybody, whether a regular in the stadium on a matchday or somebody who just looks out for our result, is urged to contribute.”
Robbi was also keen for supporters to get involved at DFC with a special anniversary for the club on the horizon.
And all being well, there will be another special day coming up before that.
She added: “While the reasons it’s happening are totally understandable, football just isn’t the same when we all have to watch from home.
“The day that we are able to have supporters back in the stadium can’t come quickly enough and when it does, what a day it is going to be.
“We hope it will be the start of a vibrant and exciting new chapter for the club as it approaches its 150th anniversary at rapid speed.
“It would be great to have a support on matchdays which as significant in numbers as it can be. Myself and a number of people within the club are working with determination towards ensuring that.
“If you’re reading this and thinking about getting involved at Dumbarton FC, do it. It’ll be more special when we’re allowed into stadiums again, but even now, it’s a decision you won’t regret.”
Robbi can be contacted at rdocherty@dumbartonfc.co.uk
Andy Galloway