Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine

Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: Desi on February 27, 2012, 05:51:23 AM

Title: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Desi on February 27, 2012, 05:51:23 AM
I understand that the club are currently phoning S/T holders asking questions re renewing for next season.

If anyone has had this call, what questions were they asking and were they connected with the current situation?
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on February 27, 2012, 08:14:44 AM
what questions were they asking and were they connected with the current situation?

I can only think of two questions they could ask that would be connected with the current situation.

1) Will you renew if Alex Mcleish is still in charge?  YES/NO
2) Will you renew if Randy Lerner continues to be owner but carries on to appear to no longer care? YES/NO
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: spirit of 82 on February 27, 2012, 10:06:42 AM
I have had a call within the last week but as i paid for my season ticket on 4 monthly instaments the questions were related solely to what i thought about the options available and was i likely to do the same for next year.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 27, 2012, 10:22:37 AM
I've had two calls in the last few weeks.

The first one, they asked me a few questions about whether I'd used the benefits you get as a season ticket holder, whether I liked the seat, yada yada yada, then got on to how these benefits would affect whether I renew next year or not, which then led onto if I was likely to renew. I've a feeling this is the real cause of the call.

I told them it was extremely unlikely, and the girl said "is it the manager?", which made me think she'd heard the same thing a fair bit. Conversation went on for another five minutes re why I was unlikely to renew.

Second one, they called last week as I'd paid over 10 months for my ST, asking questions about whether I was happy with the service, whether paying in instalments was a big factor in whether to renew, and whether I'd be likely to use the same method next year, which then got us on to likelihood of renewing.

The second of these calls, was really just about the finance company they'd used, I imagine they were just seeing if people were happy, nothing more.

The first one, though, sounded to me like they're getting worried about likely uptake rate next season. Not necessarily triggered by the obvious factors at play this season, but generally starting to assess where they're likely to be with their sales projections towards renewal time.

Regarding who does and who does not get a call, the only thing I'd say is that maybe they're targetting ST holders who have missed a lot of games this season (for various reasons, I have missed quite a few) as they reckon these are an obvious group who they're at risk of losing next season. I may be totally wide of the mark, though.

Incidentally, I actually had another survey call from them just before Christmas, although my memory of what was said in that one totally fails me.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Concrete John on February 27, 2012, 10:40:04 AM
Regarding who does and who does not get a call, the only thing I'd say is that maybe they're targetting ST holders who have missed a lot of games this season (for various reasons, I have missed quite a few) as they reckon these are an obvious group who they're at risk of losing next season. I may be totally wide of the mark, though.

That would make sense as I haven't had a call, but everytime I can't go someone else uses my ticket.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: CJ on February 27, 2012, 11:00:39 AM
I haven't had a call but if as suggested they're targeting absentees that might explain why. Mind you I'm still waiting for my invite to The Holte pub! ;)
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: villajk on February 27, 2012, 11:05:35 AM
I had a call last week.

It was purely to do with the way we paid, which was the 4? Month interest free way.  I was asked if we'd use this service again and I said of course.

Donna was extremely pleasant and did her job well.

Somewhat strange though that I should be called as the finance and all transactions are carried out by jon who hasn't had a call.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: VillaAlways on February 27, 2012, 11:47:37 AM
We had the call a few weeks ago which my husband took

They asked if he would be prepared to renew early it]f he could pay the same price.Also if he was happy with his seat etc

He replied that he was happy with his whole match day experience apart from what was actually happening on the pitch,which to him was far more important than a free cup of tea,free AVTV and a placename on his seat.He said that the club  seemed more concerned about lucrative sponsership deals than our performances and results

Basically if things don't change we would be more likely to go on a match to match basis due to the cheap deals being offered.Let's face it there is going to be absolutely no problem getting seats for any game next season

Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: UK Redsox on February 27, 2012, 12:11:38 PM


Somewhat strange though that I should be called as the finance and all transactions are carried out by jon who hasn't had a call.

Even Villa know who's really in charge.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: UK Redsox on February 27, 2012, 12:13:28 PM
I don't think that I've ever been phoned by Villa about anything. I get the automated texts and, whenever I phone the ticket office about away games, they try to flog me extra home tickets. However, I'm pretty sure that I've never had them call me.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Dave Cooper please on February 27, 2012, 12:41:07 PM
Not a ST holder so no calls, but I do get regular texts from the club (or Spam as it is usually known) offering cheap ticket deals. Thing is, I can't remember ever giving them my number.

*EDIT* Ah! Got it. Won one of them 188Bet free ticket things when they were going, had to give my number for that. That's probably it.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Villafirst on February 27, 2012, 01:49:33 PM
I've had two calls in the last few weeks.

The first one, they asked me a few questions about whether I'd used the benefits you get as a season ticket holder, whether I liked the seat, yada yada yada, then got on to how these benefits would affect whether I renew next year or not, which then led onto if I was likely to renew. I've a feeling this is the real cause of the call.

I told them it was extremely unlikely, and the girl said "is it the manager?", which made me think she'd heard the same thing a fair bit. Conversation went on for another five minutes re why I was unlikely to renew.

Second one, they called last week as I'd paid over 10 months for my ST, asking questions about whether I was happy with the service, whether paying in instalments was a big factor in whether to renew, and whether I'd be likely to use the same method next year, which then got us on to likelihood of renewing.

The second of these calls, was really just about the finance company they'd used, I imagine they were just seeing if people were happy, nothing more.

The first one, though, sounded to me like they're getting worried about likely uptake rate next season. Not necessarily triggered by the obvious factors at play this season, but generally starting to assess where they're likely to be with their sales projections towards renewal time.

Regarding who does and who does not get a call, the only thing I'd say is that maybe they're targetting ST holders who have missed a lot of games this season (for various reasons, I have missed quite a few) as they reckon these are an obvious group who they're at risk of losing next season. I may be totally wide of the mark, though.

Incidentally, I actually had another survey call from them just before Christmas, although my memory of what was said in that one totally fails me.

I'm in that ST holders category of having missed quite a few games, especially in the last 4 months - all I've seen is the Liverpool, Arsenal and Swansea home matches and, you as you know, Villa were abysmal apart from the Arsenal game. I just can't drum up the enthusiasm anymore with current regime. It was very much 50-50 whether I renewed or not last summer. In the end I did, but wish I hadn't. Unless there's a massive change of management and approach there's no chance of me renewing for next season, and in 24 seasons I've only not had a season ticket for the 1999-2000 season. I've found better use of my time and don't really miss it now - never thought I'd say that.....
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Damo70 on February 27, 2012, 04:35:39 PM
I had a call. They asked me if I had any Premier League experience on Championship Manager and how I had managed the wage bill on those occasions. Also what formation I usually played and if I had ever managed Blues. My answers were - yes, no problems, 4-3-3 attacking and no. Apparently my name as been put on some list for a later date.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Lizz on February 27, 2012, 06:33:14 PM
I haven't had a call.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Dave Clark Five on February 27, 2012, 06:35:55 PM


Somewhat strange though that I should be called as the finance and all transactions
are carried out by jon who hasn't had a call.

Even Villa know who's really in charge.

They have spies everywhere.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: PeterWithesShin on February 27, 2012, 06:50:59 PM
This year I gave them the number of the local laundrette. Next time i'll probably just give them Legion's.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: ez on February 27, 2012, 06:52:45 PM
Not been a season ticket holder for a few seasons now. The only call i've had was when my last renewal deadline came and went without me renewing. Politely asking my reasons.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: luke25 on February 27, 2012, 06:55:35 PM
Not a ST holder so no calls, but I do get regular texts from the club (or Spam as it is usually known) offering cheap ticket deals. Thing is, I can't remember ever giving them my number.

*EDIT* Ah! Got it. Won one of them 188Bet free ticket things when they were going, had to give my number for that. That's probably it.
Our footballs that bad its making fans have conversations with themselves.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: JUAN PABLO on February 27, 2012, 07:01:09 PM
I guy I know who I go down Villa with sometimes who is season ticket holder with his brother and nephew are not renewing. 
Thats another 3 less .
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: paul_e on February 27, 2012, 07:21:57 PM
I'd love to see a meaningful vote of current season ticket holders about whether they currently plan on renewing.  Not sure you'd get enough stats back from a website to get decent stats but about a third of the people I know with them are adamant they won't renew and nearly as many are waiting to see what happens between now and the end of the season.

I think the results of a poll like that would be a big eye opener for the club.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Legion on February 27, 2012, 07:24:04 PM
If you mean on H&V, I'll set one up.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: WarleyWonder on February 27, 2012, 08:29:58 PM
Lets face it fellow fans we are in the s**t a few of us have been saying it since August but some fans thought we were talking out of our a**e. It was obvious to a blind man that we were going to struggle. I have made my point.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: AV82EC on February 27, 2012, 09:35:11 PM
Lets face it fellow fans we are in the s**t a few of us have been saying it since August but some fans thought we were talking out of our a**e. It was obvious to a blind man that we were going to struggle. I have made my point.

Bully for you, oh wise one. 

Behold , behold, the wise one is here, let us bow down and kiss his feet and show our gratitude.

Alternatively you could just fuck off and stop making out as if we should be in some way grateful that your "points" have led us to some promised land of milk and honey.  In case you hadn't realised, he's still here, probably will be until at least the summer, we're still in the shit and no amounbt of grandstanding by you and the other morons at VFU is going to change anything soon.  I think most people with a set of functioning eyes and the use of cognitive brain power realised its shit without you coming on here espousing the view that we've all been missing it and you have some sort of ESP for this stuff.

So fuck off with your  "point" and the horse you rode in on.

and breathe................   
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Dave Cooper please on February 27, 2012, 09:50:57 PM
I have made my point.

Lets face it fellow fans we are in the s**t a few of us have been saying it since August but some fans thought we were talking out of our a**e. It was obvious to a blind man that we were going to struggle. I have made my point.

You had an erection when you posted this didn't you?
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: aShawthing on February 27, 2012, 09:59:20 PM
Im an ST and the only reason I still am is my seats. All the extra Free crap is wortless why would I want AVTA free when I dont watch it anyway. I can see Villa for free on the web if I want to without AVTV.

The big problem Villa have is ticket deals!! A mate of mine gave up his season ticket and his 2 boys as he worked out last season and probably this one too he could have gone on a deal for almost every game and end up paying the same or less than an ST. So ultimately other than your specific seat ST's get no benefits and have to go to every game to make it worthwhile.

So AVFC I put it to you that yes we are one of the cheaper teams in the PL but if you want to keep your ST's for next season I think a reduction in price may be needed like a back to 2009-10 deal say!!

We might play better football too. If god forbid we go down then a large reduction maybe 10-20% may be needed to get good crowds. we would ofcourse have a new manager if we were relegated which may improve the gates. Unless it was Chris Houghton ofcourse!! Or Steve Bruce!!!

I wonder if we will see the buy your ST now and the price is frozen for next season? if that does happen they are in panic mode.

I said it nearly 12 months ago but employing Houllier would take us back 5 years and it nearly has, cheers Gerard. By the way he only bought Bent to save his skin as he knew Bent would be rubbish withuout the 2 wingers who told him they would leave in the summer. but the stress got too much for him!!

Lets hope we can ride it out, lets get behind Gabby and the lads and show them we want to stay up!!
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: D.boy on February 27, 2012, 10:42:37 PM
Somewhat strange though that I should be called as the finance and all transactions are carried out by jon who hasn't had a call.

But we all know that you're the one who does all the spending Pauline.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: paul_e on February 27, 2012, 10:49:09 PM
If you mean on H&V, I'll set one up.

Not sure the sample size on here would be big enough, just think it'd make interesting reading, if you got enough people to respond it's something the club would probably pay attention to as well.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: The Left Side on February 28, 2012, 02:01:31 AM
My old man renewed this season although he wasn't sure, but he said on Sunday that he was done with it next season, thanks to Mr McLeish.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: cheltenhamlion on February 28, 2012, 08:31:55 AM
I have to admit I am undecided on next season and whether to renew. It is all becoming a chore to be honest.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on February 28, 2012, 09:29:54 AM
It is meant to be fun.

If you meet up with your mates before and after the match and go boozing, maybe that bit still us fun.

The football bit in the middle hasn't been fun for a while, though, and is becoming less and less fun.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: VillaAlways on February 28, 2012, 09:39:09 AM


We might play better football too. If god forbid we go down then a large reduction maybe 10-20% may be needed to get good crowds. we would ofcourse have a new manager if we were relegated which may improve the gates. Unless it was Chris Houghton ofcourse!! Or Steve Bruce!!!




What's wrong with Chris Hughton ? I'd be more than happy with him
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Legion on February 28, 2012, 09:40:28 AM
A reference to his current employers, perhaps?
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: VillaAlways on February 28, 2012, 09:44:46 AM
A reference to his current employers, perhaps?
All the better.They' be livid if we nicked him.Unfortunately I don't think the board would dare even though the majority of Villa supporters would be thrilled to have him because they just don't get it
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Chris Harte on February 28, 2012, 01:03:23 PM
It is meant to be fun.

If you meet up with your mates before and after the match and go boozing, maybe that bit still us fun.

The football bit in the middle hasn't been fun for a while, though, and is becoming less and less fun.
This is how it is for me these days. A good craic before or after (sometimes before and after), but the middle bit not being enjoyable.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: TimTheVillain on February 28, 2012, 01:08:08 PM
It is becoming very tedious being a Villa fan at the moment and going to VP is far from being fun - it is a chore.

I probably will renew, but only if they keep the prices the same.

If they increase by literally 1p it would be the end for me next season after a decade of being a ST holder.



 
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: cheltenhamlion on February 28, 2012, 01:11:55 PM
I have long since realised that meeting up with friends was the most enjoyable part of going to the football. 
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: TheSandman on February 28, 2012, 01:14:20 PM
A reference to his current employers, perhaps?
All the better.They' be livid if we nicked him.Unfortunately I don't think the board would dare even though the majority of Villa supporters would be thrilled to have him because they just don't get it

Absolutely. They probably believe the oft-repeated shit in the press that we don't want McLeish as he came from City.

I'd be delighted if we brought in Hughton if we sacked McLeish. I'd not have been disappointed in the summer had he came in. Instead we made the most bizarre, divisive, unimaginative and downright terrible appointment imaginable.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: VillaAlways on February 28, 2012, 01:20:13 PM
I have long since realised that meeting up with friends was the most enjoyable part of going to the football. 
My sister,brother in law and nephew don't even have that.For 3 seasons they have been driving all the way over from Shropshire all the home games and driving straight back.My nephew has gone from being a fanatical Villa supporter to now barely bring interested.Suffice it to say those 3 season tickets will not be renewed next season
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: cheltenhamlion on February 28, 2012, 01:23:08 PM
If it wasn't for meeting up with my variety of acquaintances in The Bartons I would have given up some time ago.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: coda on February 28, 2012, 01:23:59 PM
we would ofcourse have a new manager if we were relegated which may improve the gates.
I'm not convinced we would. I can envisage Faulkner saying McLeish is the perfect manager with his experience of the Championship. I think we'll be fine this season although I am worried about next season.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: nick harper on February 28, 2012, 01:29:37 PM
Having been a season ticket holder pretty much for the last 30 years, I'm disappointed they haven't called me up to get some feedback. I would like the opportunity to tell them how painful it is at the moment and that the club are alienating a lot of loyal fans as a result.

I very rarely miss a home game but I've missed the last two, the second being simply because I knew how McLeish would play against Man City and can't stand to watch it.

As things stand me and my family will not be renewing, so that's another three.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Boz on February 28, 2012, 01:45:07 PM
I'm not an ST holder and only get to see a few games in a season, but to me the Board seem to have lost sight of the fact AV are primarily a football club and what happens on the pitch dictates almost everything else that goes on at the club.

All the fluff and other marketing ploys are secondary, as until there's a successful team on the pitch, the fans will not be happy or contemplate spending hard to come by money at the club. Under the existing manager, it's difficult to envisage any real success or an acceptable style of football, so the donward spiral will continue.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: VillaAlways on February 28, 2012, 01:53:55 PM
I'm not an ST holder and only get to see a few games in a season, but to me the Board seem to have lost sight of the fact AV are primarily a football club and what happens on the pitch dictates almost everything else that goes on at the club.

All the fluff and other marketing ploys are secondary, as until there's a successful team on the pitch, the fans will not be happy or contemplate spending hard to come by money at the club. Under the existing manager, it's difficult to envisage any real success or an acceptable style of football, so the donward spiral will continue.
This in a nutshell.I get the feeling from the present board that it is the football that is secondary to everything else
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Clampy on February 28, 2012, 02:08:11 PM
I've not had a call yet but i'll always get a ST for as long as i can afford it. I'd also tell them that I can see a lot of people not renewing if Eck is stlll there, which i don't think he will be.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: CJ on February 28, 2012, 02:45:46 PM
I haven't missed a home game for over 20 years and I've got a great ST seat (near front & centre Upper Holte). But I'm finding it hard to muster much enthusiasm these days - with top flight football(ers) in general and McLeish's brand of football in particular. I've stopped going to away games, and if my mates don't renew I probably won't either. It'll be a wrench as I've been going to the Villa on and off since I moved to Birmingham in the '70's, but other than the banter with my mates it's just no fun any more.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Rick_avfc on February 28, 2012, 03:13:18 PM
I havent received any call (yet) but I will be telling them that I will not be renewing next season for a variety of reasons but mainly because of Mcleish appointment and they way a majoirty of fans had been disrespected by Faulkner and Lerner for appointing this dimwit despite fans voicing their concerns about him via the protest outside the club, forum discussions and radio phone in's.  They were fully aware that fans didn't really want him but chose to give him the job regardless and now its coming back to haunt them.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Oscar Arce on February 28, 2012, 05:33:01 PM
I too have not had a phone call but, heyho I've only been a season ticket holder for 25 years and supported Villa by attending every home game since 1970.
If they ring me I will tell them that no, I will not be renewing my season ticket because since 1970 I have seen some shit Villa teams, some average Villa teams and some great Villa teams, but there is one thing I have always had and that is hope.
But not any more.
We're fucked, the owner and the club don't give a shit so why should I, and that's me done with Villa.
It has cost me a small fortune but it will not any more.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: damon loves JT on February 28, 2012, 05:42:23 PM
The window cleaner came round last night and wanted his money. I told him there was no way he would be cleaning my windows again while that bluenose clown McLeish was in charge.

Slammed the door in his face.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: cheltenhamlion on February 28, 2012, 05:45:37 PM
What is all this "they wouldn't listen to the fans nonsense"? Why would they? Its not a democracy any more. We are no longer shareholders.

I said in the summer that the appointment used up the last of the goodwill Randy had bought but, if they think he is the best man for the job, why would they listen to some carping fans?

Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: TheSandman on February 28, 2012, 05:47:37 PM
That's why I've started to think that the story about not interviewing McClaren on account of carping fans is a bit fishy.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 28, 2012, 05:48:04 PM
They really are in for a shock come the summer regarding season ticket sales. The problem is, it will probably be the end of the summer before the penny drops.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Dave Clark Five on February 28, 2012, 06:03:09 PM
If they don't listen to carping fans, they've had their chips.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Dave Cooper please on February 28, 2012, 08:36:29 PM

I said in the summer that the appointment used up the last of the goodwill Randy had bought but, if they think he is the best man for the job, why would they listen to some carping fans?



Say what you mean, don't be koi.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Sister of Top Cat on February 28, 2012, 08:56:52 PM
I had a call in January.  Can't be bothered to type it all again but this is what I posted then:

I had a call from the Villa yesterday asking me various questions, mainly about my season ticket: was I happy with my seat; had I used any of the vouchers that came with the pack; what was the main reason for  having a season ticket; would I be renewing; and finally, had I missed any home games this season.  As it turns out, I wasn't there on Saturday.  I've since found out that they also telephoned a friend of mine (a fellow a season ticket holder) who didn't attend on Saturday so I suspect they're looking into attendances quite closely at the moment.

It was quite good to be able to put my point across to someone at the club.  I said that I was happy with my seat, I hadn't used any of the vouchers (and instead of such gimics would prefer just a cheaper ticket).  I hadn't yet decided whether to renew next season as it very much depends on performances on the pitch and also I didn't feel a season ticket represented such good value for money as it used to because of the constant discounts on individual match ticket prices.  I don't think there's been one game this season that hasn't had some sort of deal.  I also said because of this I would expect season ticket prices to be reduced for next season as they've obviously got ticket prices wrong for this season.  From a personal point of view I pointed out that ticket prices in the Lower Trinity are in my opinion wrongly priced for cup games as we're lumped in with the "posh" seats in the Middle/Upper Trinity. 

Anyway I'm not holding my breath that anything will come of it but at least they're paying attention to the gates, even if it is only from a point of that they're losing too much money from a lack of bums on seats!
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Legion on February 28, 2012, 09:00:16 PM
Stick the gimmicks. Just offer value for money.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: caster troy on February 29, 2012, 02:39:17 PM
We've agreed already not to renew if McLeish stays. Even if we go down I'll be back next year to support the club as long as Mcleish is gone.

This year for the first time they have to earn my loyalty by changing the manager. If I get a call about renewals that's what I'll be telling them.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on February 29, 2012, 04:03:10 PM
What do you think the reaction from the media and fans would be if Villa released a statement along these lines in the summer:

"Based on our forecast season ticket sales it with regret that we have to dismiss Alex Mc from his position as manager.  Extensive surveys of ST holders revealed that sales would drop to an unsustainable level if AMc was retained as manager.  We thank him blah blah blah..."

Would the media laugh at us?
Would more fans be "guilt tripped" into buying season tickets?
Would it reflect well on the club? 
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: itbrvilla on February 29, 2012, 04:11:20 PM
What do you think the reaction from the media and fans would be if Villa released a statement along these lines in the summer:

"Based on our forecast season ticket sales it with regret that we have to dismiss Alex Mc from his position as manager.  Extensive surveys of ST holders revealed that sales would drop to an unsustainable level if AMc was retained as manager.  We thank him blah blah blah..."

Would the media laugh at us?
Would more fans be "guilt tripped" into buying season tickets?
Would it reflect well on the club? 

I couldnt give a monkeys what the media say. Its the clubs mess, they brought all this on themselves by being clueless and rudderless.  I will not be attending till he has gone and the same applies to most supporters I know. Why would they go from Houllier to Martinez to McCleish?  Just doesnt make any bloody sense and shows lack of direction and vision by the board. They can stick season tickets up their arse, as I have much more exciting things to do on my weekends that cost a fraction of the price.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: cheltenhamlion on February 29, 2012, 04:20:14 PM
If they stick their head in the sand and retain his services next season they will have to spend, and spend early, otherwise they will lose a lot of season ticket holders.

That's not to say that those supporters won't still attend some games but, with the lack of light at the end of the tunnel at the moment, it will hit season ticket sales hard if the supporters are not given at least some hope of jam tomorrow.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Matt C on February 29, 2012, 06:05:00 PM
Manager/football/general state of the game aside, the thing that has miffed me this season is the amount of deals the club offers on tickets meaning for a ST holder like myself who is liable to miss a couple of games a season, I'd have been better off just picking and choosing my games which is what I would elect to do next season.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Big Dick Edwards on February 29, 2012, 06:28:17 PM
fans had been disrespected by Faulkner and Lerner for appointing this dimwit despite fans voicing their concerns about him via the protest outside the club, forum discussions and radio phone in's

How many fans were at the protest at Villa Park? How many internet fanzine users voiced their displeasure with the McLeish appointment? How many people ring up the radio stations? I would guess you're looking at hundreds, not thousands. Why should the club give such weight to a minority of fans? If the club were really interested in hearing the fans opinions they should ask season ticket holders and regular attendees to games the relevant questions. Lets face it, these fans are the ones who can hurt Randy the most, by not renewing season tickets or attending games.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on February 29, 2012, 06:32:24 PM
I think Randy is doing a very good job of hurting himself financially without the help of season ticket holders. It's all well and good sacking McCleish but who is going to appoint the next Villa manager?
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Holte L2 on February 29, 2012, 08:15:18 PM
I've been a season ticket holder for 20 years. i'll be there next season. My dad claims he won't, but he does this every year. He said this year he was going to knock the aways on the head...he's been to 10
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Dave Clark Five on February 29, 2012, 10:05:38 PM
I've been a season ticket holder for 20 years. i'll be there next season. My dad claims he won't, but he does this every year. He said this year he was going to knock the aways on the head...he's been to 10
That's the spirit. Imagine pushing a trolley round Tesco next season on a Saturday afternoon. There will be miserable people there holding protests in the car park, singing 'there's only one Morrisons' and 'empty shelves my lord'. It doesn't bear thinking about. Villa it is!
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: ez on February 29, 2012, 10:36:50 PM
I gave up my season ticket a few years ago intending to go now and then. Gradually went to less and less games. Not been tempted at all this season.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Lizz on February 29, 2012, 10:55:46 PM
I've been a season ticket holder for 20 years. i'll be there next season. My dad claims he won't, but he does this every year. He said this year he was going to knock the aways on the head...he's been to 10
That's the spirit. Imagine pushing a trolley round Tesco next season on a Saturday afternoon. There will be miserable people there holding protests in the car park, singing 'there's only one Morrisons' and 'empty shelves my lord'. It doesn't bear thinking about. Villa it is!

I strongly suspect we'll be there next season too. I'm not a prolific poster on match threads for games I don't go to, partly because of a natural tendency of not becoming worked up about things I can't change [that's not meant as a disrespectful comment on those who do - more a recognition of my Denise Royle-ish type genes].

Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: not3bad on February 29, 2012, 11:04:12 PM
Lets face it fellow fans we are in the s**t a few of us have been saying it since August but some fans thought we were talking out of our a**e. It was obvious to a blind man that we were going to struggle. I have made my point.

I remember when I said the biggest downer about Mcleish being a failure would be Dazzyg crowing and screaming "I told you so" again and again and again.  Of course at the time Dazzy swore he wouldn't be like that...
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Holte L2 on February 29, 2012, 11:06:24 PM
Is it really ignorant to understand what else people do on a Saturday afternoon? For me going to Villa is just what we do. Regardless of who's in charge, its just what we do
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Holte L2 on February 29, 2012, 11:12:10 PM
I think Randy is doing a very good job of hurting himself financially without the help of season ticket holders. It's all well and good sacking McCleish but who is going to appoint the next Villa manager?

I'd love Lambert. Wanted him, and posted it when MON left. Otherwise I'm not sure....unless we went for somebody young, I.E a Martin Laursen.....really clutching at straws there
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Rudy Can't Fail on March 01, 2012, 02:40:44 PM
I think Randy is doing a very good job of hurting himself financially without the help of season ticket holders. It's all well and good sacking McCleish but who is going to appoint the next Villa manager?

I'd love Lambert. Wanted him, and posted it when MON left. Otherwise I'm not sure....unless we went for somebody young, I.E a Martin Laursen.....really clutching at straws there

Frank Rijkaard will be looking for a job after his Saudi team lost to Australia and missed out on qualification to the 2014 World Cup.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: D.boy on March 01, 2012, 03:05:21 PM
Is it worth adding a poll to this thread?
Yes
No
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Damo70 on March 01, 2012, 03:26:16 PM
My old man renewed this season although he wasn't sure, but he said on Sunday that he was done with it next season, thanks to Mr McLeish.

Is this the new song that will replace the Spinksy/Birchy/Alan McInally one for the remainder of this season?
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: WarleyWonder on April 10, 2012, 01:53:20 PM
Once AM is disposed of then the good times will be back at VP until then the atmosphere will not be be there at all we all know it.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Dave Clark Five on April 10, 2012, 02:13:22 PM
Once AM is disposed of then the good times will be back at VP until then the atmosphere will not be be there at all we all know it.
I'll let you know then so you can start coming back again.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on April 10, 2012, 07:55:56 PM
A nice lady called Donna phoned me this evening to ask if I'm going to renew.
I did tell her I've been going since 1966 and that I've had my season ticket for over 20 years, but that I'm not so sure.
She mentioned about the payment schemes but I said this wasn't a factor, that I'm probably a disillusioned 50 something and may finish up renewing but I can't be asked to think about it yet.
She said should they phone me in a few weeks, I said no its ok I keep up to date with everything going on by looking at a very informative fan site and if I do decide to go its not like I would forget.
She thanked me for my loyalty and said lets hope we see some good things in the final games to encourage me, but she had to agree with me that what happens out on the pitch is no more in her control than it is mine.
( At no time did I mention the name Mcleish, I think the lady has a difficult enough job already phoning around people).
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: CJ on April 12, 2012, 05:17:15 PM
I too had a call from Donna today. Like A-L-I-T-A I said I first went to Villa over 40 years ago, and have had a ST/haven't missed a single home game since football was re-invented in 1992. Unlike A-L-I-T-A I said for the first time I'm thinking of not renewing purely because of the dross served up by AMC, and I launched into a bit of a diatribe about the quality of football, McLeish's record of negative football and relegation, how where he managed before was not an issue, how going to VP had become a chore instead of an exciting pleasure. and that renewing was in the balance and to a degree dependent on whether my mates renew. She was very nice about it but obviously couldn't comment about things on the pitch.

I didn't mention that it might be cheaper to take advantage of the special deals and pay on a game by game basis, mainly because I've got a great seat which I've had for years, and sat with the same people for years which is part of the match day pleasure. For me it's purely a question of the quality of football
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: ktvillan on April 12, 2012, 05:55:46 PM
Seems to me they are at least aware of, and concerned at,  the discontent and dwindling attendances,  and are also aware of the main cause - the "manager".

Also seems to me that the more of you ST holders that say they won't renew because of him, the more chance that they will kick his sorry ass out of VP.

So even if you do intend to renew, how about a bit of tactical fibbing just to help things along a bit?  Go on you know you want to.

Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Rip Van We Go Again on April 12, 2012, 06:16:39 PM
Seems to me they are at least aware of, and concerned at,  the discontent and dwindling attendances,  and are also aware of the main cause - the "manager".

I think the marketing department will be concerned with the targets they need to hit, but the owner?

Nope.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: caster troy on April 12, 2012, 07:04:58 PM
Seems to me they are at least aware of, and concerned at,  the discontent and dwindling attendances,  and are also aware of the main cause - the "manager".

I think the marketing department will be concerned with the targets they need to hit, but the owner?

Nope.

That's the worst thing about this whole situation for me, the nagging fear that no matter how bad we get or how much attendances reduce, Lerner either won't notice or won't care.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Dante Lavelli on April 12, 2012, 07:15:55 PM
That's the worst thing about this whole situation for me, the nagging fear that no matter how bad we get or how much attendances reduce, Lerner either won't notice or won't care.

We don’t know that.  Presumably the marketing department reports up to some wider board of directors, I cannot believe that they operate in complete isolation from the rest of the club.

Even if they are operating in isolation with these questions you’d have to ask why. 

My guess would be that they’re preparing to cover their arses for the drop in season tickets sales eg. When I asked they can say “we did a survey of last years ST holders and X said “McLeish was a factor” and therefore the drop in sales is not a result of poor marketing by my department."

Either way, Randy and the decision makers at the club will know if there is one specific excuse/reason consistently given for not renewing.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Edvard Remberg on April 12, 2012, 07:42:18 PM
To be fair to the owner and those in charge, it would be impossible to work with an alternative to McLeish formally. That would make a bad situation even worse. Hopefully there is happening more than we know.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Fasth56 on April 12, 2012, 07:44:35 PM
Had a call from Paul,

Asked all the questions previously mentioned, asked me about whether I was going to renew, I said I might but my wife wouldn't be. Also said that I may not renew as I always miss 3 games (£75 loss) due to my holidays in September and Skiing in March, he actually suggested that I didn't go skiing. I suggested to him that as a customer AVFC should cater for me not me for them.

Also asked why I may not renew I mentioned the shite football on offer and the lack of investment in the club by the owner, to which he replied that they had bought Bent, invested in the training ground and a couple of other things. I said that it's players that win matches and if the owner does not have the cash to run the club perhaps he should look for further investment.

I then said and it all depends whether we are in the Premiership or the Championship and I would be making a decision at the end of April which will give me the 8 months interest free.
 
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: curlytailavfc on April 12, 2012, 07:48:35 PM
ive told the muppets who called me to ask  Lerner to call me and ask why after going to the villa for 47 years  im not going next season I can tell him direct
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: VillaBobby on April 12, 2012, 07:49:14 PM
Could there be a reason for this early canvassing?

Not that the club need to be told why fans are staying away!
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Andy_Lochhead_in_the_air on April 12, 2012, 07:58:44 PM
May I just say that when people get the phone calls that they dont take it out on the person calling from VP. The idea of maybe doing a 2/3 hour early evening shift phoning up Villa season ticket holders to see if they will renew would fill me with dread.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Rip Van We Go Again on April 12, 2012, 08:37:06 PM
Also said that I may not renew as I always miss 3 games (£75 loss) due to my holidays in September and Skiing in March, he actually suggested that I didn't go skiing.
 
Are you serious?

What a fucking idiot.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: claret and blue blood on April 12, 2012, 08:47:54 PM
Had the call tonight (think it was Donna) I told her that there is no way I'm renewing if McLeish is still in charge did feel a bit sorry for her as I vented the frustration at the guy being given the job in the first place when we all knew it would be the worst football we have ever seen told her i would renew even if we go down as long as he gets the bullet. She did say that the feedback they obviously have to record would echo what I'd said.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: pauliewalnuts on April 12, 2012, 08:51:46 PM
May I just say that when people get the phone calls that they dont take it out on the person calling from VP. The idea of maybe doing a 2/3 hour early evening shift phoning up Villa season ticket holders to see if they will renew would fill me with dread.

Well said.

Get your point across (I will be) but remember these people are just doing a job. It isn't their fault. It is the fault of employees of the same company who earn 100 times as much as they do.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: olaftab on April 12, 2012, 09:04:45 PM
I have written in stating that I will wait closer to start of the next season and  if McLeish is in charge I will not renew my 3 ST's.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: SteveD on April 12, 2012, 09:12:52 PM
How many renewed after a season of Billy McNeil with not even a standard pleading apology, 2nd class?
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: VillaBobby on April 12, 2012, 09:19:03 PM
May I just say that when people get the phone calls that they dont take it out on the person calling from VP. The idea of maybe doing a 2/3 hour early evening shift phoning up Villa season ticket holders to see if they will renew would fill me with dread.

Well said.

Get your point across (I will be) but remember these people are just doing a job. It isn't their fault. It is the fault of employees of the same company who earn 100 times as much as they do.

Totally correct. These guys will be on a low wage and are being used as cannon fodder to gauge the fans disgruntlement.

They will have no impact on the managerial position but will receive endless amounts of abuse.

A simple not until Emile scores from a corner will suffice.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: CJ on April 12, 2012, 10:09:41 PM
May I just say that when people get the phone calls that they dont take it out on the person calling from VP. The idea of maybe doing a 2/3 hour early evening shift phoning up Villa season ticket holders to see if they will renew would fill me with dread.

Absolutely. I put my feelings across to Donna and afterwards thanked her for taking the trouble for calling me. Don't shoot the messenger
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: PaulMcGrathsNo5Shirt on April 12, 2012, 10:28:27 PM
I had one of these calls this time last year, and in total 3 times in the run up to the season starting as I didn't renew. On each occasion the person on the phone was superb, well mannered and prepared to listen to all you had to say. On one occasion I was actually at work and asked them if they could phone me back and they rang me almost to the minute. I was asked my thoughts on how the club could encourage fans to buy their season tickets. The final call I received was actually from one of the top people in the ticketing office from what I remember and her parting comments to me were, "Well thank you for you support over the years, and we hope to see you down Villa Park as much as possible next season when you can".

I think Villa really are a club going forwards in every single way away  apart from the shit that is served up on the pitch and the lack of investment from the owner.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: VillaBobby on April 13, 2012, 06:50:38 PM
I had one of these calls this time last year, and in total 3 times in the run up to the season starting as I didn't renew. On each occasion the person on the phone was superb, well mannered and prepared to listen to all you had to say. On one occasion I was actually at work and asked them if they could phone me back and they rang me almost to the minute. I was asked my thoughts on how the club could encourage fans to buy their season tickets. The final call I received was actually from one of the top people in the ticketing office from what I remember and her parting comments to me were, "Well thank you for you support over the years, and we hope to see you down Villa Park as much as possible next season when you can".

I think Villa really are a club going forwards in every single way away  apart from the shit that is served up on the pitch and the lack of investment from the owner.

Very good post. The none football side at Villa Park has been dragged into the 21st Century. Major improvements have been made in communication between the club and it's supporters, unfirtunately we have regressed this year and a boron down the arches approach as been taken.

I just hope the club can learn from this season.
Title: Re: Questions to Season Ticket Holders.
Post by: Chico Hamilton III on April 13, 2012, 07:49:26 PM
On a bit of a tangent, I received an email from Fulham today- I think I must have registered with them previously to get tickets for Villa games in the neutral end (Ive got 9 "loyalty points" now). Their adult season tickets start at £399 for any stand in the ground.

Any road up, back to the original topic...
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