Archive - Thursday, 10 January 2002


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Dragons fight to stay in Europe

BARRY Town Football Club could lose their place in Europe if Vale residents fail to throw their support behind the team.

The cash-strapped Dragons, who need to maintain their expensive scheme for youngsters to qualify for the European Cup, are asking locals to put their hands in their pockets.

Chief executive Kevin Green, who was saddled with massive debts when he took over the club, spoke to the News about the problems his side face.

He said: "A ruling by UEFA says all clubs must have a youth scheme for nine-to-18-year-olds. We set ours up last August, but it has left us with short term cash-flow problem.

"If we don't get help, the youth scheme will be dissolved within three months, and we will lose our place in Europe."

He claims that a youth scheme of the same size in England would cost around £200,000 but these clubs are given financial help.

The Sports Council for England donate £69,000, the English FA £60,000, and the local authority between £20,000 and £80,000.

But Welsh sides are not so fortunate.

Mr Green said: "The Welsh Sports Council give nothing. The Welsh FA have the power to award £7,000, but we qualified for Europe, so get nothing and we can't get funding from our local authority."

Now the club has come up with a money-winning idea.

Kevin explained: "We've launched a scheme called the Dragon Gold Card. For £120 per year, supporters will get a pre-match function in the Jenner Lounge, a chance to socialise with players, 10 percent off club merchandise,10 percent off season tickets and a prize draw entry throughout the year."

Also, prior to going to Europe, there will be a draw to decide which supporter will come as part of the official European game.

The club needs just 200 people, private individuals or companies around the Vale of Glamorgan to come on board before the end of January.