With the season well under way we are proud to report that the ‘Play it Forward’ scheme has been a big success this summer.
Play It Forward allows fans to donate towards tickets for those who may be struggling during these tough times and who may not be able to afford to come and watch football. Saturday afternoon at a match is a great way to get away from the stresses of everyday life but it can be expensive and for some loyal fans the chance to bring their family to watch a game together is invaluable.
OxVox and the OUSP offered fans the chance to donate anything from a few pounds to the price of a full season ticket and that money has raised enough for 14 season tickets. Those will be distributed by our charity arm, Oxford United in the Community, who will make sure they reach fans across Oxfordshire who may need a boost right now.
To impact as many families as possible, the tickets will be distributed in pairs, one adult and one junior ticket.
Play it Forward was first suggested by fan Zack Goldman who told us
“It’s amazing to see how this has grown year on year. Initially, it was because I can’t get to games often, so I offered to buy a season ticket for a fan who would get more use out of it but maybe couldn’t afford it at full price. To see the supporters’ groups build from there is fantastic: the idea of donating smaller sums, rather than a full season ticket, is excellent.”
Paul Peros of Oxvox added:
“It’s a simple idea but another great example of how the club unites people across the county, people from all backgrounds. Fans raised close to £3,000 and that means 14 fans will be able to enjoy games in the Planet IT Family Stand which is great to hear.”
Janine Bailey of the OUSP echoed those sentiments:
“Football is a fantastic way for families to spend quality time together and Play it Forward will make a huge difference to these families".
Chris Lowes, Head of Oxford United in the Community told us that it is now a case of making sure the tickets go to the right homes:
“We work across the city and all over Oxfordshire and every day we see how the Cost of Living crisis is affecting families. If we can help by getting them along to watch a game of football together then that is wonderful and we thank every fan who helped make it happen.”