THE Port Adelaide Football Club continues to lay the foundation for its future success, with its debt demolition campaign only getting stronger, and the next phase about to be launched.
Three weeks after the Back In Black function that saw our new Foundation Leaders raise more than $1 million, the support is still flowing in and helping the club build a powerful base ahead of its games shifting to Adelaide Oval.
144 individuals and companies committed at least $5000 each on one of the most significant nights in the club’s history. Since then, a further 22 Foundation Leaders have come on board, taking more money off our debt.
Port Adelaide Football Club President Brett Duncanson said the club is grateful and humbled by the continuing support.
“These are people who are digging deep into their own pockets to help the club they love,” Mr Duncanson said.
“It’s a sign of the commitment they have to Port Adelaide, and their faith in its future.”
“With SACA members supporting the redevelopment of Adelaide Oval, that future is brighter than ever. The significant donations we continue to receive will help us bring down our debt and ensure we arrive at Adelaide Oval in great financial shape.”
The newest additions join a list of Foundation Leaders including corporate partners, supporters, board members and staff members. The current playing group also contributed, with every member of the squad chipping in to raise $55,000.
“The money will come off our debt and reduce our interest burden, freeing up precious dollars to spend in areas that will make the Port Adelaide Football Club more competitive and ultimately more successful,” Mr Duncanson said.
Very soon the club will launch the next innovative phase of Back in Black, as it keeps striving to become financially stronger.
“Our debt demolition is far from over, and we have more exciting plans which will allow our great club to once again thrive,” Mr Duncanson said.
The debt reduction strategy is just one aspect of our club’s continuing off-field momentum, with other great signs including:
• The resounding 80% vote of SACA members, endorsing the $535 million redevelopment of Adelaide Oval. The Power’s games will be played at the world-class inner city stadium as early as the 2014 AFL season, generating an additional $3.5 million a year for the club.
• Membership continuing to grow during 2011, nearing 36,000.
• The continuing increase in corporate sponsorship support, through initiatives including the Business Ambassadors Group.
• Encouraging progress towards a significant turnaround from last year’s financial position.
All Foundation Leaders will be acknowledged on an honour board to be erected at Alberton Oval, enshrining their place in the club’s history.
Those who have signed up to date will also have their names included on a one-off guernsey to be worn by the players against Collingwood in Round 20, at AAMI Stadium. They will receive a replica of this same jumper and form a guard of honour for the players.
You can still become a Foundation Leader by contacting the Port Adelaide Football Club on 8447 4044.
