New commercial manager Andrew Benjamin calls for Highland residents to rally behind Caley Thistle.
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Inverness Caledonian Thistle (ICT) is calling on the Highland community to unite and support the club as it embarks on a crucial journey towards recovery and success. With new business and commercial manager Andrew Benjamin at the helm, the club is focused on revitalizing its matchday experience and ensuring its survival in League One.
Revitalizing matchday hospitality
Andrew Benjamin, who previously worked for a cancer care charity, has been tasked with relaunching matchday hospitality for ICT. The club has faced significant challenges, including a 15-point deduction and ongoing administration since October. Despite these hurdles, Benjamin is optimistic about the team’s chances of remaining in League One and is eager to engage the local community in this effort.
“It’s exciting times right now. Our main focus is to stay up, which is maybe better than 50-50 now,” Benjamin stated. He emphasized the importance of community support, stating that the club is working hard to offer value for money while generating essential income. With upcoming home matches against relegation rivals, the club has introduced special offers to attract fans and fill the stands.
Community engagement initiatives
ICT is committed to fostering a strong connection with the local community. Benjamin highlighted initiatives such as distributing around 600 tickets to primary school children, aiming to make football accessible to families. “We’re aware of the cost-of-living issues, so we’re trying to do what we can to help ensure every child gets the opportunity to come and watch football,” he explained.
In addition to ticket giveaways, the club is working on affordable hospitality packages to encourage attendance. Benjamin’s vision includes increasing matchday attendance from 1,800 to an ideal 2,500-3,000, creating an electric atmosphere that can inspire the team on the pitch.
Looking towards a brighter future
Benjamin’s enthusiasm for the club’s potential is palpable. He believes that with the right support, ICT can aim for promotion to the Championship next season. “Everything Alan Savage has done so far has helped us get to where we are today. We can’t keep looking to the past; we have to move forward,” he stated.
Alan Savage, a key figure in the club’s financial stability, has invested nearly £1 million over the past year to keep the club afloat. His vision aligns with Benjamin’s, focusing on mutual benefit and community engagement. “This city needs a football club, so we’re here to offer people a really good experience,” Savage remarked.
As ICT prepares for its next home fixtures, the call to action is clear: the club needs the support of families, children, and schools to create a vibrant matchday experience. With a shared commitment to growth and community involvement, the future looks promising for Inverness Caledonian Thistle.
