Club Statement : Tue Jun 26, 2012 3:32 pm
Since publication of last week’s Doncaster Free Press, there has been much speculation as to the impact of the inferences and statements that have been made, upon the future of the Dons.First and foremost the Dons will continue to be owned, lead and managed by the team who have moved us forward over the past thirty months of the current ownership. Furthermore, the business ethos that we have adopted over this period will be followed rigorously ensuring both the financial stability and continuity of the club into the future.
As part of our future plans the Dons have already signed a lease extension in early May 2012 with the Borough Council to remain at the Keepmoat until 31 December 2015. When Doncaster Rovers achieve their aspiration of taking over the head lease of the Keepmoat, our sub lease will have to be novated and its existing terms and conditions protected in their entirety. This should consolidate our very good working relationship with the Rovers, who have our full support for their venture as we enjoy theirs.
Notwithstanding our independence they may well be situations where we could explore with other Keepmoat occupiers the joint use of common services providers, supplier purchasing, ticket sales and general administrative oncosts so long as any consequential integration would be to the mutual operational and financial benefit of all.
One of the more emotive matters arising from the article is the mention of the Dons away strip being modelled on that of the Rovers home strip. It is in some degree difficult to understand the adverse reaction to this possibility, particularly when in the last three seasons we have had white and black, red and black and grey and pink away strips. The final decision over the 2013 season adopted away strip design lies with the RFL and their formal approval. For clarity, the Dons blue and gold will definitely not be abandoned nor has this subject ever been on any agenda.
Despite a further double digit percentage increase in the Dons home attendances this year we, like the other sports clubs in the Borough, do not benefit from the level of support commensurate with the quality of the performances and offering. Thus, it is certainly worthwhile to work with other Keepmoat users to optimise involvement and interest in sport through the 'Doncaster' brand, whilst each sports organisation retains its own brand independence, identity and integrity.
In summary, the Dons are in good heart both on and off the field, however if working with others of like mind and aspirations could benefit the Dons in future then it would be both unacceptable and inadvisable not to explore opportunities that open up before us as we push for promotion and thereafter. COYD.