2024/25 Meeting 2, Junior Supporters' Board Minutes

Agenda

1. Chadwell Heath Tour
2. Icebreaker Activity
3. Junior Hammer Workbook
4. Junior Hammer Branding
5. Update from JSB Representative on the Fan Advisory Board
6. JSB Actions & Updates
7. New Actions
8. Final Comments

1. Chadwell Heath Tour 

The Club gave a presentation on the Academy, covering the training pitches, staff and teams. JSB members asked about the scouting process and the Club explained that West Ham scouts watch players at grassroots clubs, including Sunday League teams.

During the Chadwell Heath tour, the group visited the indoor pitches, where the Club explained how they help players train year-round. They then stopped at the Mark Noble Arena, a space dedicated to the West Ham legend, which serves as inspiration for young players. The tour continued with a visit to the gym, where players train to stay in peak physical condition and ended in the team presentation room, where coaches and players prepare for matches.

2. Icebreaker Activity

The Club led an icebreaker game where JSB members worked in pairs to complete a fun challenge. 

3. Junior Hammer Workbook

The Club introduced the Junior Hammers workbook and asked for feedback. The JSB had originally suggested the idea and shared their excitement about the offer. They recommended tailoring workbooks to special events or holidays and using social media to promote them.

4. Junior Hammer Branding

The Club introduced the Club’s marketing designer, who shared the new Junior Hammers branding and website. The Club described how the updates would engage young fans. JSB shared their feedback on the website. 

5. Update from JSB Representative on the Fan Advisory Board

JSB representative Austin Gigg updated the group on his role in the Fan Advisory Board (FAB), which is the Club’s primary mechanism for consultation and engagement. He shared key actions that he raised in meetings and encouraged JSB members to bring forward new ideas.

6. JSB Actions & Updates

JSB 1/4-23-24 – Look at ways to share the Club’s history in a way that resonates with younger fans.

The Club confirmed that the new Junior Hammers website will include a picture carousel with quotes from Hammerhead and Bubbles, highlighting West Ham’s history in a fun way for young fans.

JSB 1/5-23-24 – Review Hammerhead and Bubbles locations and timings on matchday and communicate this to young fans.

The JSB suggested that Hammerhead and Bubbles visit more areas of the stadium, including upper tiers, so all young fans can meet them. The Club confirmed they would move the mascot area to the north section of Stadium Island before matches at selected fixtures.

JSB 1/9-23-24 – Review junior web/app experience and junior matchday guides.

The JSB suggested adding more pictures to the Junior Hammers website to make it exciting and interactive. The Club confirmed the junior matchday guide would be made more junior friendly, by adding more images.

JSB 2/1-23-24 / JSB 2/2-23-24 – Junior Hammer Lunch Box and Food Discounts

The Club confirmed there are no plans for a Junior Hammer lunch box. The Club confirmed that whilst early bird discounts are available at London Stadium, there are no plans to introduce a Junior meal discounts at kiosks. 

JSB 2/5-23-24 – Interactive Games on the West Ham App

The JSB suggested adding new games to the West Ham App, including "What Am I?", a game where fans guess the players and "Spotle", a Junior Hammers-exclusive challenge. The Club confirmed this is a long-term project and won’t be completed this season.

JSB 2/10-23-24 / JSB 1/2-24-25 – Flags for Goal Celebrations & Honesty Flags

The JSB Representative on the Fan Advisory Board asked for feedback on goal celebration and honesty flags following a focus group on Fan Experience in January 2025. It was agreed updates would be shared with the JSB. The JSB also suggested creating more tifos (big banners) to improve the matchday atmosphere. The Club confirmed work was underway to look at more fan-led displays 

JSB 1/4-24-25 – Junior Hammers Magazine Update

The JSB suggested making the Junior Hammers magazine available at newsagents or as a digital version alongside further promotion via onscreen adverts. The JSB also suggested releasing the magazine after each transfer window, featuring behind-the-scenes access to new signings. The Club will consider this.

JSB 1/5-24-25 – Hammer Collectibles

The JSB members suggested bringing back Hammers collectible cards, similar to Top Trumps, for a fun and interactive way to engage young fans. The Club stated this was under review, but needed to be mindful of contractual agreements with Club partners. 

JSB 1/6-24-25 – Booster Seats for Junior Fans

The Club confirmed that the JSB Representative on the FAB asked if the Club would consider booster seats for young supporters sat in the lower bowl. The Club confirmed this isn’t something that would be possible due to Stadium safety rules, however if a supporter was struggling with visibility, that the Ticket Office could be contacted for relocation options 

JSB 1/7-24-25 – Junior Hammer Day Ideas

JSB members shared ideas for Junior Hammer Day, including:

• Season Ticket Holders watching a training session.
• A Junior Hammer Takeover at half-time, where a young fan interviews a Hammer Legend.
• Young fans designing a goal celebration for players.
• Fun events like penalty shootouts.
• "Guess the Year of the Shirt" game for a prize.
• Moving competition entries from X to the website to make them easier for young supporters.

The Club confirmed work was underway to look at the Junior Hammer takeover for the 2024/25 season. 

7. New Actions

Adding Junior Content to the West Ham United Fan Information WhatsApp Channel

The JSB asked the Club to consider adding Junior Hammers content to the West Ham United Fan Information WhatsApp Channel, including updates on matchday collectables, such as Junior Hammer Passports. The Club agreed to review this. 

Making It Easier for Junior Hammers to Attend Matches

The JSB suggested adding a feature to the matchday guide and website that clearly explains how junior fans enter through the turnstiles to help young supporters feel more confident and make the process easier for families attending matches. The Club agreed to review this. 

8. New Actions

Junior Supporters' Board Meeting Minutes

Meeting Notes 

1. Introduction

The JSB members were each provided with a West Ham branded pen, a personalized notebook and their new JSB polo shirt. After a short icebreaker and welcome Lee Woodcock (LW) led a discussion on the purpose and goals of the Junior Supporters Board (JSB). He highlighted the accomplishments of the previous JSB members during their term and the projects they had completed:

• Created a new JSB logo
• Monthly Junior Hammer competitions
• Created a flag which is placed in the West Stand at each match
• Junior Hammer Takeover
• Junior Christmas Wishes
• Open training days and signing sessions
• Junior Hammer programme fold-out
• Junior half-time quizzes and activations
  
  

1. Terms of Reference

LW distributed the new Terms of Reference to the JSB members, which can be accessed here. LW confirmed that he would share the Terms of Reference after the meeting to ensure everyone remains satisfied with the details.

RK said goodbye to the group and left the meeting.

1. Summary of previous Actions

JSB 1/4-23-24 - Look at ways to share the Club’s history in a way that resonates with younger fans.

One topic from the previous JSB meetings was finding ways to share the Club's history in a way that younger fans can understand and enjoy. The JSB members discussed ways that this could be highlighted on the Junior Hammers website page, including via a video. LW agreed that the Club would review this. 

JSB 1/5-23-24 - Review Hammerhead and Bubbles locations and timings 

The JSB suggested additional spaces for Bubbles and Hammerhead to appear on matchdays. LW confirmed that positions have been changed and that the Club will continue to review throughout the season. 

JSB 2/1-23-24 - Junior Hammer lunch box

One exciting idea from last season was the Junior Hammer Lunch Box, which would include content such as quizzes and word searches. LW confirmed that this idea had been passed over to the stadium catering providers. 

JSB 2/6-23-24 - Pre-match and half-time activities for junior supporters

Megan Carruthers (MC) joined the meeting to update on fan engagement and creating special experiences for juniors during pre-match and half-time. 

JSB 2/8-23-24 - Special school holiday programme / booklet

The JSB had suggested that creating a special school holiday programme and booklet would be an excellent way to engage junior supporters during their time off. The Club confirmed that they were looking into this and encouraged the JSB members to submit ideas on what to include in the programme. 

JSB 2/10-23-24 - Flags - For when WHU score a goal

The Club updated on the status of flags in the stadium. JSB members discussed the possibility of distributing honesty flags in specific areas of the stadium, which would be handed out before the match and returned afterward. The Club agreed to look into this suggestion.

JSB 3/1-23-24 - Ensure seating accessible within the lower tiers of the Stadium

LW confirmed that concessionary seats are available within the lower tiers of the stadium and that the Club has committed to reviewing the concession policies with the Fan Advisory Board, of which there is a JSB representative. 

JSB 3/2-23-24 - Review away ticket allocation process

The JSB expressed the need for a review of the away ticket allocation process to make it more accessible for junior supporters and new fans attending away matches. LW agreed that they would share this with the Ticket Office.

JSB 3/3-23-24 - Create a monthly Junior Hammer magazine

The JSB last season had discussed the exciting possibility of launching a Junior Hammer monthly magazine. The Club confirmed that there is now a Junior Hammers pullout in the programme and that the new JSB ideas would be shared with the magazine team. LW agreed to raise this idea with the Editorial Team to gather feedback and explore the feasibility of bringing the magazine to life.

1. New Actions

Junior Hammers Section on whufc.com

The group brainstormed ideas for enhancing the Junior Hammers section on the WHUFC.com website including a virtual tour, matchday posters and guides. The Club and JSB agreed to add this to the agenda for the next meeting. 

Supporter Services Giveaways

The JSB discussed the return of Hammer Collectable cards. The Club clarified there is a new collectible item for junior members through the Junior Hammers passport and welcomed feedback on what alternative collectible items there might be. 

Booster Seats for Junior Supporters

The group suggested the idea of providing booster seats for children who may have difficulty seeing the match. LW agreed that the Club would look in to this. 

Junior Hammer Day

The JSB proposed the idea of creating a Junior Hammer Day, which would feature a variety of exciting activities on the stadium Island to engage young fans. MC agreed that the Club would consider this.

Ticket Prices for Category AA Matches

The JSB asked for clarification on Category AA ticket prices. Members expressed concerns about the affordability of these tickets for families and younger fans, regardless of the category. LW agreed to share this feedback with the wider Club and bring an update to the next meeting. 

1. Pictures / Final words

The JSB members then went pitch side to take profile and group pictures.

1. New Actions

Meeting 3 – 2023/24 Season

• Date: Thursday, 8th August 2024
• Time: 10:30 AM
• Location: Chadwell Heath Training Ground

Attendees

Club Staff:

• Lee Woodcock (LW), Supporter Engagement Manager
• Ruth Kennedy (RK), Matchday Safeguarding Manager
• Charley Burgess (CB), Supporter Liaison Officer

JSB Members:

1. Richie
2. Grace
3. Lenny
4. Fraser
5. Mae
6. Kora

Apologies:

Club Staff:

• Megan Carruthers, Events & Fan Engagement Executive

JSB Members:

• Rose
• Austin
• George
• Zach
   

Agenda

LW took JSB members through the agenda for the day, including:

1. Chadwell Heath Training Ground Tour
2. Introduction
3. Icebreaker Activity
4. Review of Actions from Meeting 2
5. New Actions, Agenda Items, Recruitment
6. Lunch

Meeting Notes

Chadwell Heath Training Ground Tour

The Junior Supporters' Board (JSB) kicked off the meeting with a tour of the Chadwell Heath Training Ground. Led by Academy Secretary, Trevor Lewin (TL), this was a special experience for the JSB members as they got to explore the facilities where West Ham United's future football stars train.

During the tour, TL explained how the Academy operates and introduced the JSB members to important Academy staff and coaches. They got to see the training pitches, gyms and the working areas. The staff talked about how the Academy helps young players grow both on and off the field, focusing on creating athletes who not only perform well in football but also embody the club's values.

The JSB members were especially curious about the player development programs. They learned about how the Academy balances physical training with teaching game strategies and providing mental support to the players. The coaches stressed the importance of teamwork, discipline, and respect, which are key values at the Academy of Football.

The members asked questions about how the players train, what they eat, and what their daily lives are like. Thes tour gave the JSB members a better understanding of what it takes to become a professional footballer and showcased the  e hard work and dedication of the young players at West Ham.

1. Introduction

After the tour, everyone gathered for the official part of the meeting. Lee Woodcock (LW) welcomed the JSB members and highlighted how important the JSB’s ideas are in helping the club create fun and engaging experiences for young supporters. He encouraged everyone to speak up and share their thoughts during the meeting.

2. Icebreaker Activity

To help everyone feel comfortable and get to know each other better, Ruth Kennedy (RK) led an icebreaker activity. JSB members paired up and took turns talking about what they’ve been doing since the last meeting. They discussed their summer holidays, any football activities they participated in, and other exciting things they had done. The members switched partners several times, allowing them to chat with different people and build connections. 

3. Review of Actions from Previous Meetings

JSB 1/4-23-24 - Club History for Younger Fans:
The group continued discussing how to make the club’s history interesting and accessible to younger fans. The focus was on creating fun and educational content for the club’s website and app. Ideas included:

• Group 1: Suggested quizzes about important trophies, mini-games related to the club’s history, colouring activities featuring the club’s crest and kit, and a design-your-own-kit feature where fans could create their own versions of the team’s kit.
• Group 2: Proposed a junior fan guide with easy-to-understand historical facts, match info, and printable guides that fans could use during games or keep as souvenirs.

JSB 1/5-23-24 - Mascot Timing and Locations:

The group discussed ways to improve the routes and timing of the mascots on match days, especially to make them more accessible to fans sitting in the upper tiers. The goal is to give more young fans a chance to meet the mascots and enhance their overall matchday experience.

JSB 1/9-23-24 - Junior Web/App Experience: 

There was a lively discussion about how to improve the junior section of the club’s app and website. The JSB members suggested adding more interactive features, like video clips, quizzes about the club’s history and players, and matchday guides specifically designed for younger fans.

JSB 2/1-23-24 - Junior Hammer Lunch Box:

The idea of a Junior Hammer lunch box was discussed, with a focus on encouraging healthy eating. The lunch box might include collectible cards, possibly in partnership with Topps, to make it even more appealing to young fans and promote healthier food choices. It was discussed that the lunchbox would include a sandwich, crisps, fruit, snack and a juice box. This action will remain to be discussed throughout the 2024/25 season.

JSB 2/4-23-24 - Junior Mascots:

It was confirmed that junior mascots will continue to be announced closer to kick-off to build excitement. The JSB members agreed with this approach. 

JSB 2/5-23-24 - West Ham App - Interactive Games:

The group came up with creative ideas for new games on the West Ham app. Suggestions included a colouring game where fans can customize West Ham kits, a free-kick flick game to practice set-pieces, and a West Ham-themed dinosaur game, combining fun gameplay with club branding. The Club's digital team will evaluate the JSB's suggestions for future App content.

JSB 2/6-23-24 - Pre-Match Activities for Junior Supporters:

JSB members brainstormed ideas for activities to keep junior supporters entertained before the match. They suggested interactive quizzes, player-themed puzzles, and match prediction games, all designed to make the pre-match time more fun and exciting. The Club's Marketing and Events team will review the JSB's suggestions ahead of the new season to assess which activities are achievable.

JSB 2/7-23-24 - Half-Time Pitch Side Activities:

Members proposed several fun half-time activities, like dribbling challenges, target practice, and dizzy penalties (where players spin around before trying to score a goal). These activities would entertain both the participants and the crowd, adding some light-hearted fun during the half-time break. The Club's Marketing and Events team will consider the JSB's suggestions before the new season to determine which activities are feasible.
 

4. New Actions

Ticket Concessions (More Information: https://bit.ly/46CdjxE):

The discussion moved to how tickets for away games are distributed. The JSB members felt that the process could be clearer, especially for younger fans. They talked about the idea of giving junior supporters priority access or discounts to make it easier for them to attend away games. 

Disabled Access:

JSB members expressed concerns about seating for disabled fans, particularly in the upper tiers. They asked the Club to ensure accessible seating in the lower tiers to ensure that all fans, regardless of their mobility, can enjoy the game comfortably. The Club can confirm this is does already happen. 

Furry Mascot Routes:

The group briefly revisited the topic of mascot routes. There were no new suggestions, but the members agreed that the current routes are working well, with only minor tweaks needed to improve fan engagement.

Access to Away Tickets:

There was further discussion about the fairness of the away ticket allocation process. Some members suggested new processes to allow younger fans to have  access to away tickets throughout the season which would be discussed at the Fan Advisory Board meetings

Monthly Junior Hammer Magazine:

A new idea was proposed for a monthly magazine aimed at junior supporters. The magazine could include contributions from JSB members, such as activities, word searches, player fact-files, and other fun content. The JSB members were excited about this idea and eager to help create the magazine, seeing it as a great way to share their love for the club with other young fans. The Club will now work in collaboration with the JSB to create a monthly Junior Hammers magazine.
 

5. Final Comments

As the meeting came to an end, Lee Woodcock (LW) thanked all the JSB members for their hard work and great ideas. He emphasized how important their contributions are in helping the club create better experiences for young fans. LW also reminded everyone that recruitment for the 2024/25 season would be starting soon and encouraged those who are interested to reapply and continue being a part of the Junior Supporters’ Board.

Actions

Meeting 2 – 2023/24
Date: Monday 12th February 2024
Time: 10:00 – 12:00
Location: London Stadium

Attendees

Club staff

Lee Woodcock, Supporter Engagement Manager
Charlotte Kennedy, Marketing Fan Engagement & Events Lead
Ruth Kennedy, Matchday Safeguarding Manager
Megan Carruthers, Events & Fan Engagement Executive
Stephen Ofori-Boateng, Supporter Services Executive

JSB Members

1.    Richie
2.    Rose
3.    Grace
4.    Zach
5.    Lenny
6.    Austin
7.    Fraser
8.    Mae
9.    Kora
10.  George

Agenda

1.    Introductions
2.    Itinerary
3.    Review of actions from Meeting 1
4.    New actions
5.    2023/24 Junior Supporters’ Board Terms of reference
6.    First-team open training session

1.    Introductions
Lee Woodcock (LW) opened the meeting by welcoming all Junior Supporters’ Board (JSB) members back for Meeting 2 and asked how they found Meeting 1. The meeting continued onto the agenda of the day the JSB had raised for discussion. These included:

2.    Agenda

LW took JSB members through the agenda for the day, including:

1.    Introductions
2.    Agenda
3.    Review of actions from Meeting 1
4.    New actions, submitted by JSB members
5.    2023/24 Junior Supporters’ Board Terms of reference
6.    First-team open training session

3.    Review Of Actions from Meeting 1

All feedback and actions from Meeting 1 have been raised to different departments at the Club. LW starts the review of actions with ‘JSB 1/1-23-24’:

JSB 1/1-23-24 - JSB crest (LW)

LW explains that the crest has been used on whufc.com and features on the new JSB Flag which features on rotation in the West Stand on a matchday. JSB happy with the outcome of the JSB crest.

JSB 1/2-23-24 – JSB Flag (LW)

LW reveals new JSB flag displayed in the Boleyn Social and explains that it has been displayed in the West Stand since the Manchester United fixture in December.

JSB 1/3-23-24 - Review junior fan area of the matchday programme (LW)

JSB discussed that they prefer the fold-out content in the matchday programme. LW confirmed that since Meeting 1 the matchday programme has featured two fold-out posters in the Manchester United and Arsenal programmes. JSB members deliberated and confirmed they would like to see an alternative-quiz page with quizzes aimed at both junior and adult supporters.

JSB 1/4-23-24 - Look at ways to share the Club’s history in a way that resonates with younger fans. (CK)

LW introduces Charlotte Kennedy (CK) to introduce a plan to share our Club history that resonates with junior supporters.  CK explained that a history section could be hosted on the junior page on whufc.com, potentially through a comic style.

JSB 1/5-23-24 – Hammerhead and Bubbles matchday locations (LW / CK)

CK asks the JSB for their thoughts on where Hammerhead and Bubbles would be best located on a matchday. A discussion was had around deployment of Club mascots, with the North side (between Turnstiles K and J) of the Stadium identified as a key area. JSB members also mentioned that they would like to see the mascots take part in half-time activations.

JSB 1/6-23-24 - Review JSB idea to create junior competition to win prizes (CK)

CK announces that a competition is launching tomorrow (Tuesday 13th February 2024) where supporters can submit a drawing of Hammerhead, for a chance of winning a pre-match pitch side experience to meet Hammerhead. 

CK enquired about what dream prizes could be won, JSB suggested prizes could include:

•    Signed shirt
•    Replica shirt (Unsigned)
•    FC25 game

CK asked JSB members what competitions they would like to see announced in the future. JSB members suggested the following:

•    Design a West Ham United shirt
•    Quizzes

JSB 1/7-23-24 - Review junior takeover for the Half-Time Quiz (CK)

CK announced the next Hammer Time junior takeover will take place at the Aston Villa fixture.

JSB 1/8-23-24 - Explore Open Training Days at London Stadium and more opportunities to interact with players (CK)

CK is looking at ways to further facilitate player meet and greet opportunities for supporters. JSB members also suggested for the Club to review signing sessions at the Stadium Store. LW asked all members where they would prefer these events to take place. After discussion JSB members suggested that they should all be hosted at the Stadium Store as a central location for supporters.

JSB 1/9-23-24 - Review junior web/app experience and junior matchday guides (CK)

CK confirmed that the website (whufc.com) junior matchday guide will come first, with the App a long-term project. Junior matchday guides will continue to be worked on ahead of Meeting 3.

JSB 1/10-23-24 - Review JSB suggested ideas for Christmas (CK)

CK confirmed that the Club hosted the following activations for Christmas:

•    HT Quiz at the Manchester United fixture
•    Santa pitch side at the Manchester United fixture
•    Christmas Wishes (https://www.whufc.com/news/submit-your-west-ham-christmas-wishes) 
•    Christmas event at Stadium Store

JSB 1/11-23-24 - Toilet facilities on the stadium island during matchdays (LW)

JSB members explained that the portable toilets were not clean post-match. LW mentioned that the toilets are cleaned after each match. JSB members identified that toilets could be installed before the search lanes, near Bridge 1 (Haugen Restaurant). LW explained that this is outside the Stadium footprint, however, will raise this with the relevant teams.

JSB 1/12-23-24 – Raise and monitor use of accessibility lanes on matchday (LW)

LW explains that the Disabled Supporter Assistants (DSAs) manage the accessibility lane until 15 minutes prior to kick-off to assist with the pre-kick-off congestion. 

4.    New Actions

The meeting continued onto the topic discussions the JSB had raised ahead of the meeting, this included:

Junior meals

LW starts the discussion asking what JSB would like to propose. JSB asked whether it would be possible to create a ‘Hammers Meal’ junior lunch box, which would include a sandwich, crisps, snack and juice box. JSB members suggested that the box could be West Ham branded and feature a quiz, colouring pack and West Ham facts. A JSB member suggested that this could tie in with action ‘JSB 1/4-23-24’ and feature a history comic of West Ham United.

Another idea put forward by the JSB was for there to be a junior discount for U16s. JSB discussed the process for juniors to access the discount, it was mentioned that the discount would be available on production of Season ticket at all Delaware North kiosks. JSB also highlighted that this may not work as parents may use kids’ tickets to obtain discounts.

LW plans to pass feedback directly to Delaware North.

Matchday programme

JSB shared an idea for the matchday programme to be more interactive and feature more posters and junior quizzes. JSB member also put forward an idea for a ranking system to be included, where you win a certain number of points per question and at the end you can tally the questions to see where you rank on a table: Winners, Champions League, Europa League, Conference League, mid-table and relegation.

Mascots

JSB members would like to see the junior mascot announcements made closer to kick-off. The announcements would feature favourite player and age. LW said that this will be discussed at the next matchday meeting and added as an action.

Fan Engagement

•    West Ham App & Games

LW introduces CK to present the fan engagement topic discussions. CK asks what interactive games junior supporters would like to see featured on the West Ham App. JSB shared the following ideas; Football game, competitions, Wack-a-mole and penalty competition. LW asks JSB members what platform they use for information, with the app being the main source. 

JSB member also put forward an idea that the user playing the game for prizes would have to input their client reference number to ensure that only juniors can win prizes.

•    Junior Half-time

JSB said they would like to do some more engaging activations at half-time, suggesting a penalty shootout, Hammerhead vs and a screen Based Quiz.

CK to review half-time activations.

•    Pre-Match Activities

Discussions were had around pre-match activities that juniors can get involved with. JSB suggest preloading the quiz, so supporters would not need signal to take part.

CK to review pre-match activations.

LW will send over actions from meetings, with JSB members all agreeing on the matters raised. The Club will be seeking the views of JSB members between now and the end of the season on how they feel we may be able to further enhance the atmosphere and experience on matchdays.

5.    2023/24 Junior Supporters’ Board Terms of reference

LW sent proposed 2023/24 terms of reference to JSB members to review ahead of the meeting. LW asks JSB members if there are any changes or questions the JSB would like to raise regarding the terms. JSB members deliberated and confirmed that they were happy with the terms of reference proposal. 

LW asks for a show of hands to confirm the terms of reference, all ten JSB members raised their hands to approve.

6.    Open training session

JSB members left the meeting to head to the West Stand Lower to watch the open training session, before having photos and a signing session with available first-team players. 

Meeting ends.  

Actions

Meeting 1 – 2023/24
Date: Sunday 12 November 2023
Time: 10:00 – 12:00
Location: London Stadium

Attendees

Club staff

Lee Woodcock, Supporter Engagement Manager

Charlotte Kennedy, Marketing Fan Engagement & Events Lead

Ruth Kennedy, Matchday Safeguarding Manager

JSB members

Richie
Rose
Grace
Zach
Lenny
Austin
Fraser
Mae
Kora
George
Agenda

Introductions

Itinerary

Project 1 – Create the new JSB badge
Project 2 – Create the new JSB flag

Topic discussions

Introductions

LW welcomed JSB members to their first meeting of the new group and handed them their official Club polo shirt and West Ham United executive notebook and pen.

JSB members were invited to introduce themselves, including sharing their favourite West Ham United memory.

LW explained the purpose and aims of the new Junior Supporters’ Board:

• Provide feedback around the matchday experience
• Assist in creating junior content for whufc.com and social media accounts
• Liaising regularly with the Supporter Services team throughout the season
• Contributing new ideas to provide a great junior fan experience
• Itinerary for the day

LW took JSB members through the itinerary for the day, including:

• Introductions
• New JSB uniform for all members
• Project: create the new JSB crest
• Project: create the new JSB flag which features the new JSB Crest
• Topics for discussion, submitted by JSB members
• Pitchside visit for JSB member profiles and group pictures
• Activity 1 – Create the new JSB badge
• JSB members spent some time discussing and creating ideas for the new JSB crest to be displayed on Club channels. JSB members each had the opportunity to draw their own crest ideas from scratch, with the final design taking inspiration from all submissions.

The only criteria applied:

The crest – Is it a shield, circle etc.
JSB / Junior Supporters’ Board
Using the claret and blue colour scheme
The JSB crest will be created in November 2023 and shared with JSB members after the meeting.

Activity 2 – Create the new JSB flag

To accompany the JSB crest, JSB members were also able to draw their own concept for a new JSB flag to be displayed inside London Stadium on home matchdays.

The only criteria applied:

• The JSB crest
• JSB / Junior Supporters’ Board
• Using the claret and blue colour scheme
• The JSB flag will be created in November 2023 for display inside London Stadium on matchdays.

Topics of discussion

Fan Engagement

Half-time guide for junior supporters
JSB members asked to review the junior fan area of the programme. JSB feedback was that this should be more visual, with less text information to make it more exciting for young fans. This could include fun facts and engaging activities, alongside some key information about the match.

Another idea put forward by the JSB was to communicate the Club’s history in a way that is suitable for younger fans (key milestones, successes etc…)

Greater presence of club mascots on match day
JSB asked if Hammerhead and Bubbles could be seen in more areas on a matchday to ensure they reach as many young fans as possible. JSB also suggested that Hammerhead and Bubbles could be in two separate locations as well.

JSB said they would like to do some more engaging activities with the mascots – perhaps include things in the programme or website like ‘where to find them on matchdays’ – and make sure that a timetable exists so that young fans know where to find them.

Events and activities for younger fans
JSB shared an idea for a creative competition for kids to get involved in – design something or submit a picture and the best one gets shown on the big screens (could also be voted on by the fans). JSB suggested prizes could include a signed stash or stadium tour.

On the pitch activities at HT

Themed crowd match days
Pre-match quizzes (such as guess the season) for younger fans

JSB member also put forward an idea for a junior takeover for the Half-Time Quiz.

Community Engagement

Open training days to meet players
JSB would like to see the reintroduction of Open Training Days at London Stadium and more opportunities to interact with players. These could be open to Season Ticket Holders as a priority before being available to other groups thereafter.

Creating a separate kids page on website/app
A discussion was had around development of a new junior section of the website and app which is more relevant and tailored to young fans (different designs, different look and feel, succinct information). JSB members also suggested a junior web/app section could be a place to host young fan competitions, and match by match information, but a condensed version for junior fans.

The Club would also review opportunities for a matchday supporters guide for young fans – again using more visual descriptions and young fan-friendly language.

Christmas
Discussions were had around a photo opportunity with the mascots on matchday, perhaps using the sleigh in the Stadium Store. Other suggestions were to include Christmas music in the Stadium Store and a Christmas jumper day.

Operations and ticketing

Access to toilets on the Stadium Island
JSB member asked if there could be a return of the toilet facilities on the stadium island.

Accessibility
JSB member mentioned the abuse of the accessibility lanes before the match with supporters abusing this.

Entry into London Stadium
JSB member observed that the queues at the turnstiles can sometimes be longer due to supporters not knowing how to scan their digital ticket or not being prepared with their digital wallet/folded print out ticket.

Pitchside visit and photos

JSB members left the meeting to visit pitchside and the press conference room, before having their photos taken as a group and individually for their Club profiles.

Meeting ends.

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