AFC Wimbledon’s Cherry Red Records Stadium was abuzz with excitement as approximately 200 football enthusiasts representing 25 different clubs convened for the annual Fair Game Conference. The event provided a forum for supporters from all levels of the game to convene and deliberate on the administration of English football.
Michele Little, Chair of the Dons Trust Board, inaugurated the event with a fervent address, underscoring the pride in owning the club and the stadium. She underscored the unity among the 3,500 members of the Dons Trust and the remarkable achievement of raising £12 million through the fan base for the construction of the stadium.
The Fair Game Conference, which aims to formulate practical long-term solutions for the challenges facing football, has gained significant momentum since its inception in 2021. The progress of the Football Governance Bill, which will establish an independent football regulator (IFR), was a focal point of discussion. Martyn Henderson, the Interim Chief Operating Officer of the Independent Football Regulator, provided an update on the Bill’s progress through Parliament and the recruitment process for the regulator’s leadership.
After a tour of the stadium, attendees were treated to insights from various speakers, including former Reading striker Dave Kitson and ex-Eastenders star Tom Watt. AFC Wimbledon’s community-centred approach was highlighted through impressive showcases by the Dons Local Action Group and Wimbledon in Sporting History.
Visiting supporters were full of admiration for the fan-owned club and the achievements at the stadium. Martin Buhagiar, Chair of the Tottenham Hotspur Supporters Trust, commended the fans’ role in building the stadium and the significance of AFC Wimbledon’s return home. Similarly, Bill Waterson, Co-Chairman at Altrincham, highlighted the importance of fan empowerment and the positive impact of the Fair Game movement.
The passion and enthusiasm displayed at the Fair Game Conference underscored the unity and determination of football fans to address the issues facing the sport. The event served as a reminder of the invaluable influence of supporters in shaping the future of English football.
By Alex Folkes