JOIN USBengaluru FC, the new I-League football club that is based in the city, unveiled their plans to improve the current match-day experience of the fans and also announced the ticketing strategy ahead of the 2013-14 league season that is scheduled to begin on September 21.
Speaking to reporters here on Wednesday, Mustafa Ghouse, CEO of the club, said they have planned a raft of measures to reach out to the fans.
“We are in the process of refurbishing the (Bangalore Football) stadium, bucket seats will be coming up in a matter of time. Apart from that, there is painting and cleaning work going on,” said Ghouse.
While there are no structural plans as such to build a roof, Ghouse said there was a plan in place to install temporary floodlights for the second half of the season and they are talking with the concerned people to get it done.
Ghouse also announced the club have signed up with bookmyshow to sell match-day tickets which have been priced at Rs 30, 50, 150, 300 and 450.
Season tickets for all ticket denominations will be available and there will be some hospitality provided for tickets worth 300 and 450.
Depite the East stand of the stadium being closed for safety reasons, Ghouse expressed optimism about the number of tickets that will be sold. The club’s first home game is against Kolkata’s Mohun Bagan at 4.00 pm on Sunday.
Looking ahead to the new season, BFC coach Ashley Westwood was brimming with optimism.
“We had a short time to get the team formed but credit to everyone that we have managed to do it. All the boys are fit and and we have seen some big improvements and we are working hard to make sure it continues,” said Westwood.
India captain and forward Sunil Chhetri, one of the star attractions of the side, said he was very happy to be here.
“I signed for this club because of the vision the club had and because of their desire to do the right things,” added Chhetri.
Defender Vishal Kumar, who hails from the city but played for Pailan Arrows previously, expressed happiness about having the opportunity to play for the club.
“I have never played in Bangalore at a professional level before so I’m happy to be here. It’s a nice opportunity for me to improve my game playing with experienced players and I hope I can give my best,” said Kumar.
DH News Service