Reds Improving their Stadium

[midfielder]

Good story and good on em...

http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/sport/soccer/reds-glams-up-corporate-image/story-e6frectc-1226029479282

ELAIDE United will launch a marketing trumpcard - building a glitzy new corporate facility in the first stage of a push to transform the Hindmarsh Stadium footprint.

The initial plan is to build a deluxe 80-100 person entertainment suite that also extends outside with seating. Around 20 corporate boxes will remain either side of the deluxe "super-box".

The Reds are uniquely placed to take attract the scarce sponsorship dollar to Hindmarsh - particularly from an ageing AAMI Stadium where corporates are less likely to travel and Adelaide Oval. Fans love Hindmarsh's close proximity to the city and renowned atmosphere at home games but corporates are increasingly seeking a point of difference to entertain clients.

"We met with the government last week and showed them plans we had created for a viewing area that will seat around 80 people," said United chairman Greg Griffin, whose Rob Gerard backed consortium has been in control at United for less than year.

'We really want to lift the level of entertainment, appeal to a raft of sponsors.

"The sponsors want to see what kind of facility we can put on and we have to be responsive to that. What we have had drawn up are plans that overlook through glass on to the pitch that will accommodate people both pre and post match. What we want to do is make it the best event in the state."

Popular Reds coach Rini Coolen will also form a pivotal part of the new chairman's club package to go on sale within eight weeks ahead of the 2011-12 season, tipped to start in October.

"People want to hear someone talk.

"We will bring a raft of people in including the coach who will speak before every game," revealed Griffin.

"Rini is sensational - you just don't get that anywhere else.

"He incredibly available and will explain the match plan for the day to guests.

"That is a terrific sale point.

"We also haven't been able to reciprocate the hospitality of other clubs and officials so we will be able to do that.

"The club trophies are still sitting in Manton St - it will be nice to move them to a new area."

United wants to eventually increase capacity at Hindmarsh and expand surrounding amenities for car parking and the new corporate facility is the first plank in a "consolidation' process.

The Reds consistently attracts crowds over an 11,000 average and are rivalling Port Adelaide Power for support.

"Essentially we need to sit down carefully and get a broader mix of people, we have a waiting list for corporate box holders and find out what works best for the venue," said Griffin.

 

[scottmac]

Thats awesome news. I would kill for a boutique stadium for us.