Latest discussions from the supporters' forum.
Supporters: Are the Club looking at initiatives to boost attendances?
Club: Various initiatives are in place including group promotions for large companies including AXA, Willis and BT. The Club also writes to people who have attended a game for the first time to solicit feedback and invite them to come again.Home supporter attendance has reduced this season by 2% and away game attendance by up to 35%.
What about ways to add to the atmosphere at Portman Road?
A group of fans known as Section 6 have been encouraging supporters to purchase tickets for games in a specific area in the Lower North Stand to encourage singing and generally raise the atmosphere.This has been in operation for the last few games and is welcomed by the Club after initial discussions took place between members of Section 6 and ITFC.
Is it possible for evening games to kick-off later than 7.45pm to allow London based fans more time to travel to Portman Road?
Kick-off must take place between 7.30pm and 8.00pm. It is currently set at 7.45pm.A change in the time was discussed last season and it was agreed that 7.45pm worked best for supporters.If the kick-off changed to 8.00pm this would impact on the last train back to the capital. It was agreed that the matter would be discussed further at the AGM of the London branch of the Supporters' Club.
Could part of Portman Road be for concession only tickets where groups of youngsters can buy casually on the day?
The Club agreed that there may be a way of encouraging late teens to attend and sit with people in the same age group. The matter would be considered further.
Could injured players take part in signing sessions and meet the fans in Planet Blue before games?
The Club agreed to look at the matter in detail but said that players who attended would have to do so well before kick-off. The Club is also looking into the possibility of inviting ex-players to make appearances in Planet Blue before games. Trevor Whymark and Allan Hunter were at Planet Blue before Saturday's game against Blackpool where they were signing copies of Match of My Life - Ipswich Town written by local author Mel Henderson.
Any more plans to add more murals like the one in the Family Area?
The Club have invited other schools and colleges to do similar artwork after the mural in the Family Area was well received by supporters.
