The FTF has also enabled the Club to take a significant step towards the re-surfacing and re-configuration of Punt Road Oval, with an announcement likely to be made in the near future about the scope and timing of the works.
The fund, which is approaching the halfway mark of its ambitious target of $6 million, has been established to reduce debt and invest in football resources.
“Our number one priority, in terms of football investment, was to re-surface and re-shape Punt Road Oval,” Gale said. “As our most important piece of ‘equipment’, this is seen as critical. We expect to be in a position to make an announcement about these works in the near future.
“We will also slice a significant amount off our debt, so what we have achieved to this stage with the Fighting Tiger Fund is fantastic. It has provided a wonderful foundation for us to build on as a Club.”
Gale also paid tribute to the magnificent support of the Richmond members, coteries and supporters.
“We anticipate making some other exciting announcements about our football program in the near future - all made possible thanks to our members, coteries and supporters," he said. “Our wish-list also included the establishment of a stand-alone reserves’ side. We will not be in a position to realise that ambition in 2012, given the level of funding it would require.
“The second-tier competition is also currently under review and the Club feels it is prudent to await the outcome of that process before considering what model is the most effective to invest in moving forward.
“In the meantime, we will continue to work with Coburg to develop a partnership that will provide us with as many of the benefits of a stand-alone side as possible.”blog comments powered by Disqus
