Drinking Clubs Benefit from WSL Pilot Scheme

Aston⁤ Villa jumped on the bandwagon earlier this season, and in recent weeks Tottenham Hotspur, Nottingham Forest and Leicester City have taken the tally of⁢ participating clubs to 18 out of 24 in ⁤the top two⁤ divisions.

The⁣ WSL says there have ⁤been no reported incidents or ejections related to the pilot, while a survey of fans who have been part of the trial rated their feeling of safety 9.4 out ⁤of 10.

Seven in 10 supporters now back alcohol being available in the stadium⁤ bowl at women’s games, up from⁢ 58 per cent last summer, and ⁢only one in 10 is against it.

What is Fan Choice in the Women’s Super League?

Fan Choice is a‍ pilot program ‍implemented by the Women’s Super League (WSL) allowing fans to select the music played during pre-match, half-time, and⁤ post-match intervals at select games,⁣ aiming to enhance the ⁣matchday atmosphere.

The WSL launched the pilot program in November 2023, initially at six clubs: Brighton & Hove Albion, Chelsea, Leicester City, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, and West Ham United. Fans vote for their preferred songs from⁣ a curated ⁣playlist via the WSL app. The program is intended to give supporters greater agency over the matchday experience⁢ and create⁣ a more vibrant atmosphere.

Hannah Buckley, WSL head of infrastructure, safety and sustainability, stated the league is “not scared to⁢ test and learn” wiht new approaches. WSL⁤ official announcement

How Does Fan ⁤Choice Work?

Fans attending participating WSL matches can vote for the music played during key moments of the game through the official WSL app. Clubs provide a playlist of options, and fans select their preferences before and during the ‍match. The songs ⁣with the most votes are then played at the stadium.

The pilot program focuses on three specific periods: ‍pre-match build-up,half-time entertainment,and post-match celebrations. ⁢This allows fans to directly influence the soundtrack to these crucial parts of the game day experience. The WSL has emphasized maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere while incorporating fan selections.

Early reports indicate⁣ a slight increase in atmosphere scores following the implementation of Fan Choice.WSL official announcement

What ‍Has Been the ⁤Response to Fan Choice?

Initial responses to the Fan choice pilot have been positive, with fans reporting that matches⁣ remain family-friendly while the atmosphere has improved. The WSL has expressed satisfaction with the early feedback and the willingness of clubs and fans to participate in the ⁤trial.

The WSL views the pilot⁣ as a valuable learning chance, demonstrating the benefits of testing new approaches to enhance the fan experience. The league intends to evaluate the results of the pilot program to determine whether to expand it to more clubs and matches in the future.

Hannah‍ Buckley noted‍ the “positive feedback in the first half of the season” regarding the pilot. WSL official announcement