Fans chance to play on the Mazuma pitch

[redrobo]

https://www.morecambefc.com/news/2022/m ... the-pitch/

Sounds a great idea BEFORE the close season work on the pitch commences.

Seem to recall that the close season will see the pitch relayed under the guidance of our relatively new groundsman who sounds to have his own ideas about all things pitch wise.

Will be interesting to see if the usual problems with the pitch around this time will happen next season.

[RedRedWine]

We used to have this a few years ago for supporters tbh - they were basically charity tournaments that I organised with the help of a few others (Morecambe FC Ladies for kits + MFC stewards who entered a team and arranged ground safety for example), where fans could participate for a small donation. It was initially as a one-off after I persuaded the club to let us use the facilities when a group of us walked to Fleetwood to raise money for training facilities.

Subsequently I did a few more events through FCoM/Shrimps Trust - which supporters who participated in seemed to enjoy. Somewhere along the line the club saw what we were doing and turned it into a commercial opportunity - which extended to our activities. Eventually the costs became a bit too prohibitive and I felt I was putting the club out based on conversations that always seemed to descend into money matters.... even though the last one was in aid of the previous commercial managers terrible sound system in the Wright & Lord Suite so he could run comedy nights that nobody attended unless they were free. Ba-dum-ch!!!

Ultimately the clubs stance rendered our event a bit pointless in terms of a fundraiser, as there was no money left for charity. I always thought that this was a massive shame - I get that the club needs to make money... but they also pride themselves on being a big part of the community - most people that played already regularly contribute to the club on a weekly basis/are season ticket holders. Properly organised through a recognised fan group, I think all supporters should have the chance to play in one of these - it shouldn't just be a corporate shindig.... and what a way to engender a long lasting passion in/connection to the club.

Also unfortunate that local schools and youth league finals are not taking place at the stadium - again because of cost as I understand it. The cost of everything, and the value of nothing.

Tournament Roll of Honour
2014: #Project Shrimp - Dom Lancaster
2015: Nomads XI - Mark Swidz
2016: Phatt Gnakkers - Pat Stoyles
2019: Morecambe Gold - Nigel Boras
MADKATS Globetrotters - TBC

[Wild Bill]

Can't see many takers at a £1000+ per match.

[RedRedWine]

Also unfortunate that local schools and youth league finals are not taking place at the stadium - again because of cost as I understand it. The cost of everything, and the value of nothing

It seems that following a discussion with Rod Taylor, this part is a bit misleading - I formally redact this comment and apologise for offence caused.

Conversations ongoing between the local junior associations and the club, but ultimately the club would love to host youth league finals as they have done in the past. There are loads of rumours circulating about cost, but these aren’t true.

Hopefully there can be some sort of resolution - because it would be a great experience for every youth team in the district to get the opportunity to play a final at their local football league stadium.