We are delighted to have been chosen as one of ten or so clubs nationally to be in the pilot group of a new initiative by the FAI and Schoolboy Football Association of Ireland to empower efficient fundraising by grassroots clubs. We will shortly be launching a weekly club lottery with a partner called Our Grassroots Fundraiser.
How will it work?
The lottery is run online, with subscriptions through direct debt. Selecting your lucky numbers and never missing a draw is easy with no paper tickets to buy. Subscriptions can be cancelled at any time. Select 4 numbers from 24. Online is so important as with social distancing restrictions our traditional fundraising events are restricted.
Why do we need a fundraiser?
Quite simply, every year we make ends meet between the costs of running the club, last year was €60.2K, and income collected through membership – last year our membership was €49.5K per year. The difference is made up through a variety of fundraisers. Our members and our community have always been generous and supportive of our fundraisers – Tribe Trials, Table Quiz, Bag Packs, Dawn to Dusk Marathon, Sponsored Cycle, Race Nights, Pig Racing, Predictors, Raffles and the various other initiatives we have undertaken to raise funds. An easily administered club lottery will help us raise vital funds to support the club without excessive volunteer effort that takes away from the clubs core function – Developing a Life Long Love of the Game.
Why do we need funds?
Our club continues to grow. Huge increases in girl’s participation rates and rejuvenation in adult participation rates, both male and female mean capacity at our current playing facilities are at breaking point. The clubs biggest priority is to secure an additional full size playing pitch. Over the last number of years we have negotiated on deals to support our expansion but haven’t been successful. Having the funds and reliable income stream is critical to match our expansion ambition.
How much does it cost to subscribe?
Lines can be purchased from as little as €2.50 per week with 3 lines for a €5 and 7 for a €10. It’s an opportunity for our members, their extended families, ex-players and those who support our club from anywhere in the world to offer their support in a very meaningful way.
What are the prizes?
The prize pot starts at €1,000 and rolls over every week to €10,000 and will be won within our subscriber community. It could be you! There will also be a weekly spot prize. Also, the club stands to win a club prize – such as once in a lifetime sporting prizes like training sessions with the Ireland team or International Match day mascots or significant capital prizes that would really boost our expansion plans.
You might win, a club-mate or club squad might win, the club might win, but whatever happens the individual prizes, grassroots sport in our community will be a guaranteed winner.
The lottery will launch later this month. Thank you in advance for your continued support.
Ray Hickey
PRO Lough Derg FC
