With over half of the season gone, get an insight into current matters at the club from Adelaide United CEO Glenn Elliott.
With over half of the season gone, get an insight into current matters at the club from Adelaide United CEO Glenn Elliott.
We would like to update Reds fans with information on a range of issues regards the Club. These include the strategic direction since the change of ownership, football matters and the challenges ahead.
Adelaide United FC is committed to operating a strong business model which will allow us to play football. It is fundamentally flawed to focus on the sport before the business of sport. The strategy for the current budget involved minimising most operating costs whilst quarantining football expenditure. The reason – successful on field results are pivotal to sponsorship and crowd attendances.
Across all major codes in Adelaide, crowds respond to teams winning and it is not different for the Reds. Win and crowds in excess of 11,000 can be expected, lose and that figure can quickly drop below 10,000. To date, we have simply not achieved the required outcomes. However, given the improved results of the last few weeks and if they are maintained, sponsorship and attendances will benefit.
January Transfer Window
This annual period of uncertainty is upon us again. In our case it has a further complication with the change of coach. John Kosmina is busy enough assessing our list, let alone looking at new players. It is an extremely busy period for player agents at this point in time, often negotiating behind the scenes with clubs unaware of developments.
It is also interesting to note the value of a contract. Players enter into contracts with clubs, but with few exceptions expect to be released if they get a better overseas offer. Likewise, players coming out of contract can sign with another Hyundai A-League club for next season. Under this scenario, a playing list can be disrupted with little or no influence by the club itself. If the Player has all these options, is it reasonable to consider that a club should be able to revisit a contract when the player is not performing to his negotiated level of payment or at the very minimum to have performance based contracts.
What about the club and its supporters?! Clubs plan for success and members join on that expectation, not expecting unforeseen changes. It may well be that upon signing a contract with Adelaide United FC, players will be made aware that they will be expected to honour the same for the agreed period after which they can consider their options.
Finally, a big thank you to all of the supporters that headed over for the match against Melbourne Victory at AAMI Park. The pocket of red at the stadium was magnificent and the atmosphere they created was exceptional. The players truly value the support they receive both at home and away.
The club-s next home game is on Sunday 29 January 2012 against Perth Glory (kick-off 4.30pm ACDT). Look forward to seeing you there.
