Commentary proving popular with fans
Pompey’s audio-descriptive service for blind and partially-sighted fans at Fratton Park games has proved a big hit – and the club are looking to attract more supporters who might benefit.
During the summer, the Blues teamed up with the Pompey Disabled Supporters’ Association and Alan March Sport to train a team of volunteer specialist commentators.
They are able to precisely convey what’s happening on the pitch at any moment, helping fans with difficulty seeing to enjoy the game more.
The club has set of receivers (and headsets if required) which can be booked out on a matchday by anyone with a ticket for the game, via the ticket office.
Launched at the Barnet game in September, a number of supporters – both home and away – have used the service so far and it has even been given the thumbs up at board level.
Director Ashley Brown, who is also chair of the Pompey Supporters’ Trust, has responsibility for inclusion matters at the club.
He tried out the service himself at the Stevenage game last month and gave other directors the chance to listen in.
Ashley said: “I must say that I was very impressed with the quality of the commentary team. A number of people in the directors’ box were asking me about the headphones and I was able to demonstrate this great service which has been introduced.”
Alan March, MD of Alan March Sport, added: “The service has been brilliantly received so far, which is a testament to the quality of the commentary team, who have worked really hard during their training to deliver the high standards that we, and users of the service, should expect.
“Our thanks go to everyone at the club, in particular the DSA, for helping to get the service up and running, and we hope that at Pompey football continues to be for everyone.”
Supporter James Woodfield, who has used the service, said: “The reception is good and it makes what’s going on crystal clear. I’d highly recommend this service to any fan who is blind or partially-sighted.”
Any supporter with a match day ticket who needs the service can listen to the action using specialist easy-to-use receivers.
Headsets are provided, however we recommend that people use their own ear/headphones.
The receivers are available to collect from main reception ahead of the match and are returned after the game to the Chimes Lounge entrance off Frogmore Road, next to the ticket office. A charge will be made if the equipment is not returned.
Early bookings of receivers can be made by contacting the Disabled Liaison Officer Allison McNeil at allisonmcneil@pompeyfc.co.uk or calling her on (023) 9277 8509.