Widnes VIPs is seeking new members ahead of the 2024 campaign, the not-for-profit organisation seeks to support the recruitment and retention of players through voluntary donations to assist the club in building a stronger, more competitive, and larger squad.
Each member will then have a single vote, which can be exercised on any proposition at an Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM).
Anne-Marie Hughes, Chair of the Widnes VIPs said: “Widnes Vikings Independent Player Support (VIPS) is an independent not-for-profit organisation run entirely by volunteers who are obviously also Widnes Vikings fans.
“Our main aim is to support the recruitment and retention of players and to help to build a stronger squad. We can only do this with the generous support of other fans.
“The VIQI scheme previously co-ordinated substantial support to Widnes Vikings, particularly after the club went into administration when many more fans signed up.
“We fully understand it’s a difficult financial time for many, but fans can contribute as little as £5 per month to become a member of VIPS and to be entered into our regular prize draws. Any amount is greatly appreciated.
“We would also welcome any company sponsorship so that all of the fans’ donations can be used towards player recruitment and retention.”
VIPs also offer other fundraising activities, including prize draws, where members can win prizes such as signed shirts and hospitality tickets.
Vikings head coach Allan Coleman was full of praise for the VIPs scheme, saying, “I think it’s brilliant, it’s vitally important. When I was at Swinton, they had a pride builder and that was very important in helping strengthen the squad.
“People work extremely hard behind the scenes to create that extra income because we’re not bankrolled by multi-millionaires.
“We’ve got a very strong and professional board, so we’ve got to create our own money at times and things like VIPs are vitally important to the club.”
Widnes Vikings Director, Rod Steele also said: “This is a fantastic scheme run by supporters with all of the income being spent on the playing strength, we would encourage fans to sign up if they feel they can.”
Fans can contribute £5, £10, £15, £20, £25 and £50. For any other amounts, please contact admin@widnesvips.co.uk.
If any supporters wish to donate to Widnes VIPs they can do so here.
