Sheffield Wednesday has announced the creation of a Fan Advisory Board and extended an invitation to James Silverwood to serve as an unpaid Non-Executive Director on its board. A Thursday statement from the club described this new framework for fan involvement, aimed at improving communication and representation.
The first meeting of the Fan Advisory Board is scheduled for a Tuesday in November. Members will include delegates from six different fan organizations: the collective for regional supporter groups, the official supporters' trust, the women's team supporters' group, the Wise Old Owls, the Rainbow Owls, and The Wednesday Voice. The club called these moves a significant advancement for fan representation.
James Silverwood, who chairs the supporters' trust, has been asked to join the board in a personal role. A university lecturer and trust founder, Silverwood played a key role in organizing opposition to a previous owner. He plans to discuss the offer with the trust's members before making a final decision.
Specialist sub-groups established
Three focused sub-committees will work with the main advisory board. One will concentrate on the matchday atmosphere and stadium amenities, another will serve as a specific channel for discussing ticket policies and costs, and a third will promote equality, diversity, and inclusion at the club.
The club has also set up new collectives for both UK-based and international fan groups. It promises to provide updates following every advisory board meeting to keep fans informed about discussions and outcomes. A publicly accessible document outlines the broader engagement approach.
This plan describes fan engagement as a continuous process. It lists several priorities for the upcoming period, such as improving the matchday experience and expanding community initiatives. The club also reaffirmed its dedication to following the league's rules on fan engagement.
These structural changes coincide with the team's current position in the league table. The side has not lost in its previous five fixtures, a sequence featuring a recent away draw. A notable portion of the team's goals this campaign have come late in games, demonstrating resilience. Their next match is a home fixture against Peterborough United.
First reported at swfc.co.uk
