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A little thread on #hcafc. I'm not someone who just throws around criticism without thinking of solutions. So here are some thoughts. And, yes, I do know that the alternative solution is just "1. New owners". But I'm assuming that isn't happening.
Recruitment has to change. I appreciate the model of buying payers to develop and sell on but that has to be complimented by bringing in the right character and experience in key areas, even if it takes up some of the budget. Young players can't just develop themselves.
Bringing in known, exercise players lessens the risks. We don't have the reach or the data to scout beyond Scotland. Our forays into foreign markets (not known foreign players) have generally been terrible.
Look for quality over quantity. We're taking too many players who offer nothing because it's a punt. Realistically, it's just a waste of budget. There is lots unpredictable in the transfer market but you can increase your odds.
Bring in a manager who can work with the current set up and adapt to the opposition and players available. Being rigid as part of some "philosophy" is bogus. McCann was a brave appointment. It hasn't worked. Find someone with pedigree.
Look at the medical staff. Are we doing enough? I know historically, Assem Allam had some cheapskate views on the in-house medical requirements. We've had a poor record with injuries for too long. Something in identifying players or looking after them has to change.
Do more to attract fans back (post Covid). It's an uphill battle while the Allams are here but you have to keep trying. Let's get HCST and other supporters involved in improving pre-match and encouraging people back. To be fair to them, they do good stuff for kids...
...but what about everyone else? We've got a unique environment at the KCOM. We could have a fan park, marquees, live bands, ex-Players, street food, etc. Even with social distancing, there is space. I went in "The Dugout" once last season, it's horrendous. We can do better.
On that note, we need to keep engaging communities and the next generation of fans. Tigers Trust do a great job but we've stopped doing the basics. Let's have at least one game designated as a future fans game with thousands of free tickets in schools and clubs.
Stop excluding fans and media you don't agree with. If you're not happy with coverage, change it, counter it, improve it. Get all fan groups on board, regardless of personal feelings and give them positive experiences to promote. Exclusion just creates more negativity.
On similar note, stop desperately trying to be different. Innovation is good but we've opted out of iFollow to provide a terrible service, we have members instead of pass holders and had flat prices instead of concessions. Why? We're not very good at it.
Appoint a visible, likeable, approachable Chief Exec who can rebuild the rapport with fans and media. They clearly understood it was needed before but but appointed an egomaniac with no public presence. Basically hide Ehab in a cupboard.
So there you go, just some constructive thoughts. Would love to see #hcafc fortunes reversed, who ever owns it in the short term.
