Champions push passport scheme

Run in conjunction with Shepway Dictrict Council and unveiled before Neil Cugley's champions clinched the title, the Folkestone Invicta Junior Passport Scheme offers U18s free entry to all 23 of next season's league games.

To make it even worthwhile joining, officials say they are introducing a £2 charge for all youngsters at the Fullicks Stadium for their first historic season in the Ryman League's top flight, whether accompanied by an adult or not.

Folkestone Invicta chief executive Cliff Egan believes their scheme will help the club reach their next generation of fans by helping them communicate more easily with them as well as speeding up admission on matchdays.

He said: “The junior passport has attracted plenty of interest but the board felt there was no point in having a scheme like that if we are still letting children in for free on the gate. The only way that under 18s will able to get in free will be by having a junior passport.

“People can apply for the passport and gain free entry even if they attend only a few games and we will continue to take applications throughout the season - there is no cut-off point.

"It also helps us to have their data so we can achieve better communication with all of our supporters and it will also speed up admission and help our gatemen who will only need to see the passport to allow youngsters in and not have to worry about any cash changing hands.”

Egan added: “To apply, junior supporters, or an adult acting on their behalf, should write to me at the club. We need to know the child's age, date of birth, address, contact number, and an e-mail address. Two passport-sized picture of the child who is applying must also be included.”

To apply, email: cliffegan.fifc@gmail.com. Alternatively, applications should be sent to Folkestone Invicta FC, The Fullicks Stadium, Cheriton Road, Folkestone, Kent CT19 5JU.

Image courtesy of Andy Nunn

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