Inverness football club Clachnacuddin wants earlier kick-offs in Highland League matches to tackle rising energy costs
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Clachnacuddin are considering several ways, including earlier kick-off times, to ease the pressure of the cost of living crisis for both the club and supporters.
Rising bills are a major concern nationwide, and football will not be immune to its effect.
With the winter months looming, some clubs may be left scratching their heads on how to cover the costs of heating and floodlights that will be required to get matches played.
According to Lilywhites chairman Alex Chisholm, discussions have taken place at Grant Street Park and beyond on how to mitigate the rising costs of playing football.
A number of measures are under consideration, including earlier kick-offs over the winter months to make the most of what limited daylight will be on offer.
“You’ve got your daily costs, which you watch, but the big difference comes in the winter – that’s when you’ve got the big costs,” Chisholm explained.
“To address that we’re looking at bringing kick-off times forward to reduce the use of floodlights, it’s certainly on the agenda for all Highland League clubs.
“In broader terms, we’re thinking about things like installing LED lights.
“There’s a cost there for installation, but it might bring longer term benefits. We’ve discussed solar panels, and I know other clubs are looking at that too. We can discuss the possibility of ticket pricing. We’ve got to look at everything to help people out. It’s a massive thing for people, because football gives them that release and something to look forward to. We don’t want to lose people.”
Earlier kick off times would be a break from tradition, but Chisholm feels it may be necessary this year.
“There’s a lot to consider, and how we minimise the impact on fans and clubs is definitely at the forefront of our thoughts,” he said.
“All the clubs are in the same position. As a collective, if we can look into bringing games forward it might make a difference.
“For some, 3pm on a Saturday is very traditional, and that’s great but maybe for a season we need to look at other options. As long as we explain why we’re doing it, our fans would understand.”
Despite the ongoing fears and concerns, though, Chisholm is staying positive about Clach’s future, adding: “In the last two or three years, we had a fire which caused substantial damage, then Covid came in.
“We’ve come through that, and now the cost of living and energy challenge has come in, but the club as a whole is very resilient.
“There are so many things around the club that are so positive – there’s a massive enthusiasm and support for us to improve – so I have no fears for Clach’s future. We will certainly push on again.”
