Dave Fishwick’s response: Is it a good idea for me to purchase my local football club?

I am seriously considering making an offer to invest in my local football club, which currently resides in the seventh tier of English football. With my successful entrepreneurial background spanning three decades, I have the financial means to potentially help elevate the club’s standing. Inspired by Ryan Reynolds’ investment in Wrexham FC, I feel motivated to give back to my local community.

The club boasts a decent-sized ground and has garnered a respectable following considering the level of football they compete at. Knowing that you are a devoted fan of Burnley FC, I am curious if you have ever been involved in a similar transaction or if you have ever felt tempted to do so. I would greatly appreciate any advice you may have to offer.

However, I must emphasize that owning a football club is an immense financial commitment. It requires pouring substantial amounts of money into the club on a regular basis. While you may feel financially secure and confident due to your business success, it’s important to acknowledge the formidable competition posed by wealthy individuals, such as oil sheikhs and hedge fund owners, who can outbid others for players at every level of the football leagues. Buying a football club should primarily serve PR purposes or help raise the profile of your existing business. Otherwise, my advice would be to enjoy your wealth, invest in property and other lucrative ventures, and take well-deserved vacations.

Nonetheless, I understand the allure of becoming deeply involved in football clubs. Over the years, I have personally experienced heavy involvement with two clubs. However, I have come to realize that there is an alternative way to support your local club without assuming ownership. In the past, I sponsored stands and covered the wages of star players, like Andy Payton, for my local club, Colne Football Club. I thoroughly enjoyed assisting the club, attending matches on Saturday afternoons with my young children, indulging in pies and drinks while watching the games. This approach allowed me to support the club financially without taking on the entire responsibility of running it. Recently, I even provided a minibus to transport the Colne team, requiring no reciprocation. It brings me great joy to help a club so close to my heart.

Furthermore, I have been a substantial sponsor of Burnley Football Club for the past two decades, including the David Fishwick Minibus Stand. The club has reciprocated my support countless times over, and I am immensely proud of our partnership. Burnley FC played a prominent role in my Netflix movie, “The Bank of Dave,” which features a cameo by the club’s former manager, Sean Dyche. I have developed a strong friendship with the club owner, Alan Pace, who has been incredibly supportive.

Therefore, I believe that supporting your local club through sponsorships and donations can make a significant impact. It allows you to connect with like-minded individuals and engage with your community through the wonderful world of sports. Although the recent spotlight on Ryan Reynolds and Wrexham FC has showcased the potential success of smaller clubs with passionate fan bases, it is important to acknowledge the substantial costs involved. Reynolds and his team have already invested millions to secure a spot in League Two, and additional millions will be required to reach higher levels of competition. Unless you possess a Hollywood star’s budget, it will be a challenging and lengthy journey. A book coming out in August titled “Nowhere to Run: The ridiculous life of a semi-professional football club chairman” provides insights into the difficulties faced by club owners attempting to bring success to their teams, even with the best intentions.

Regardless, I wish you and your local club the best of luck in whatever decision you make. Remember, supporting your club in any capacity can contribute greatly to their success.

Reference

Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
DMCA compliant image

Leave a Comment