RED BLUE ARMY FORUM

dougoftheshots · Second Lieutenant

rba membership

Chappie · Major

I will start doing memberships at the first pre season friendly at Alton. Membership will stay the same at £5 per person and u10's get free membership so you won't need to pay for baby badger Doug smile

TILERSHOT · Captain

i am 9

Chappie · Major

TILERSHOT wrote:

i am 9

You missed out the 3!! biggrin

dougoftheshots · Second Lieutenant

3, dont you mean 4 biggrin

RBA DJ · Lieutenant

bazza's 94! looking good for it!

TILERSHOT · Captain

RBA DJ wrote:

bazza's 24! looking good for it!

thanks m8, biggrin

Stevie · Staff Sergeant

bazz u could get dean us under 10

wob · Captain

No membership for me this year lads.

Shearer · Second Lieutenant

wob wrote:

No membership for me this year lads.

Why's that then Wob? hmm

Shearer

wob · Captain

I think the RBA has changed a lot in the past year or so and has lost sight of why it was originally formed. I mean, for years there was always loads of noise and colour and a display of some sort at the vast majority of games. The past season, however, there's been four or five home game displays, with a lack of originality or variety. There has been little (if any) talk of display ideas in the member section, in comparison to the 2007/08 season there were ideas flying about all over the place. Obviously not everyone wants to wave a flag or whatever, and that's fine as we all choose to enjoy football in our own way. But I think the reason I joined RBA in the first place isn't there anymore, and so I don't feel the need to renew my membership.

I don't know what's happened, but I remember a time when a few of us were getting ideas together, meeting up and getting things done visually. However, there's been no action or any talk of them for some time now. Even the group banner hasn't been on display at many away matches this season! Then there was the Luton display that never happened, with no given explanation as to the problem. The whole thing just seems to be completley different to how it was when I joined and doesn't really interest me anymore.

I'll still be at as many matches as usual and I hope that you all understand my reasons.

-- Edited by wob on Sunday 28th of June 2009 08:23:49 PM

TILERSHOT · Captain

wob wrote:

I think the RBA has changed a lot in the past year or so and has lost sight of why it was originally formed. I mean, for years there was always loads of noise and colour and a display of some sort at the vast majority of games. The past season, however, there's been four or five home game displays, with a lack of originality or variety. There has been little (if any) talk of display ideas in the member section, in comparison to the 2007/08 season there were ideas flying about all over the place. Obviously not everyone wants to wave a flag or whatever, and that's fine as we all choose to enjoy football in our own way. But I think the reason I joined RBA in the first place isn't there anymore, and so I don't feel the need to renew my membership.

I don't know what's happened, but I remember a time when a few of us were getting ideas together, meeting up and getting things done visually. However, there's been no action or any talk of them for some time now. Even the group banner hasn't been on display at many away matches this season! Then there was the Luton display that never happened, with no given explanation as to the problem. The whole thing just seems to be completley different to how it was when I joined and doesn't really interest me anymore.

I'll still be at as many matches as usual and I hope that you all understand my reasons.

-- Edited by wob on Sunday 28th of June 2009 08:23:49 PM

will miss you wobut!!!

Tim · Captain

yeah baby we will

RBA DJ · Lieutenant

do you have any suggestions wob, on how this situation, in your eyes can be resolved and what would make you come back to the RBA as i deeply think your input will be missed

wob · Captain

Not really in all honesty mate. I said similar things this time last year and nearly left, but stuck with it to see if things would change.

As I said earlier, the things I joined the RBA in the first place for, are no longer happening. I remember when we were talking about this at the start of the season and someone said to me "I don't want to spend my Saturdays waving a flag" which is obviously fine, as no one should be forced into doing something, but it showed to me that the aim of the RBA and the reason for it have completely changed. The coach journeys are quiet, the banner hardly ever travels away, we rarely do any actions on the terrace and to be honest, I don't really see the difference between RBA or the Supporters Club.

I know a few other lads who feel the same way as me, although I'm going to name names (if they want to say something, that's up to them) but I'll still be at matches, supporting my team as much as ever, just not as an RBA member.

aldershottillidie · Staff Sergeant

I agree with Wob. Imo, the RBA has changed quite alot. I think in the conference it was easier to do bigger displays, obviously the health and safety people have put some special rules for different games?

The season just gone, yeah we had little displays, but the only big one was bournemouth at home? That was first home game of the season.
We didn't do alot much after that, not criticising anyone just opinion.
Maybe new flags are needed im not sure.

Some people would like to go a different way forward. Wave flags in game maybe? Just an idea.
i've done my piece.

Chappie · Major

Are you guys forgetting about......... New scarves rolled out, Tour of duty, Limo's to Wycombe, Fancy dress to Lincoln, Alton Towers b4 port vale, plus many more home displays.
A lot of organising goes into these events and with only a few members taking an active roll in making these happen its not easy getting them to work.
Instead of leaving the RBA why don't you volunteer to help Fatboy in organising the the match displays? Now he's in fulltime employment he dosn't have as much time to get things done so he could do with some help.
As for the Luton display, it was post-poned due to the kick-off being changed to 1pm. It was felt that this would signifently reduce the attendance so it was decided we would save the display for 2009/2010 season. The materials have already been purchased and all that is left is the sewing.
Also on that subject, we had a group meeting that was advertised on this site to meet up to prepare the Luton display. Only 5 members turned up so is it any surprise we struggle to get things done when so few members are prepared to put the hard work in.
As for there not being as much colour and noise at the matches anymore, I've got to disagree. Ok not every game is going to be electric and have an amazing atmosphere but I'll give you 3 home and 3 away matches that were superb and I doubt anyone will disagree with these......

Home Bradford
Home Bury
Home Luton
Away Chesterfield
Away Grimsby
Away Wycombe

Wob we don't want you to leave but if you do I won't hold it against you. It will be a loss though as you always come up with good ideas and you also make good banners. I'm surprised you havn't taken a more active roll in the past as you obviosly have good skills in flag and banner making.
Is it the RBA or is it you that has changed?

aldershottillidie · Staff Sergeant

As i said. It is the RBA that has changed

Chappie · Major

RBA membership will not be available for the Alton pre-season game. This is due to the membership cards not yet being ready. They are on order so I will announce on here when they have arrived. Please don't send any member fee's until I have recieved the cards, Cheers smile

FAO Grant family: I have received your application forms and cheque. However I have yet to cash it and won't do so until I have sent out your membership cards. Cheers

wob · Captain

Chappie wrote:

Are you guys forgetting about......... New scarves rolled out, Tour of duty, Limo's to Wycombe, Fancy dress to Lincoln, Alton Towers b4 port vale, plus many more home displays.

They're all good social events if that's the sort of thing you enjoy, but they're of no real interest to me, hence why I wasn't at Alton Towers on in a limo at Wycombe. Of course I appreciate the effort involved in organising them, but I still feel that theses efforts need to be put in more on the terrace, but each to their own. Also, with regards to home displays, I can only think of the "The Phoenix has risen" display and the 12th man banner v Bradford where we've had any new materials. Apart from that it's been the same wavey flags and surfer. Oh, and FWIW, I designed the new scarf.

A lot of organising goes into these events and with only a few members taking an active roll in making these happen its not easy getting them to work.
Instead of leaving the RBA why don't you volunteer to help Fatboy in organising the the match displays? Now he's in fulltime employment he dosn't have as much time to get things done so he could do with some help.

I've offered to help him numerous times in the past, but he never seems to want/need it and keeps telling me that he doesn't have a sewing machine. I've tried my best, but it seems the interest in doing things on the terrace isn't there anymore, the main focus is off the pitch events, which isn't a criticism as I appreciate that many people enjoy them, but it's not my cuppa tea.

As for the Luton display, it was post-poned due to the kick-off being changed to 1pm. It was felt that this would signifently reduce the attendance so it was decided we would save the display for 2009/2010 season. The materials have already been purchased and all that is left is the sewing.

Thanks for clearing that up, I was told that the sewing machine had broke.

Also on that subject, we had a group meeting that was advertised on this site to meet up to prepare the Luton display. Only 5 members turned up so is it any surprise we struggle to get things done when so few members are prepared to put the hard work in.

I don't remember this meeting being announced and I'll guess that it's only the comittee members who turned up, as you guys appear to run the show. If it was a meet to actually help put the display together I'd be there like I always am (Satanta banner, 12th man banner, two-sticks etc)

As for there not being as much colour and noise at the matches anymore, I've got to disagree. Ok not every game is going to be electric and have an amazing atmosphere but I'll give you 3 home and 3 away matches that were superb and I doubt anyone will disagree with these......

Home Bradford
Home Bury
Home Luton
Away Chesterfield
Away Grimsby
Away Wycombe

I agree that the atmosphere is still really good at most games, but I don't have to be an RBA member to join in the atmosphere. I joined the RBA for the TIFO displays, which haven't been happening.

Wob we don't want you to leave but if you do I won't hold it against you. It will be a loss though as you always come up with good ideas and you also make good banners. I'm surprised you havn't taken a more active roll in the past as you obviosly have good skills in flag and banner making.

As I said earlier, I have taken an active roll when it comes to making new materials for displays and helping with the display itself, whether that be waving a flag, holding the surfer or taking pictures.

Is it the RBA or is it you that has changed?

It's not me mate, it's the group. I had these concerns last year but stuck around to see if it would change, but it hasn't so I don't feel the need to still be here.

Chappie · Major

Ok mate, I understand your reasons better now. Looks as if you've made your mind up so I'll leave it there. Take it easy.

RBA DJ · Lieutenant

I can see where your coming from Wob and I totally agree with you, of course all this interest has dragged away because, and with no offence to anyone, i think the RBA is attracting a lot of youthful attention, youths of which don't really know why the RBA was set up. And also dont know about the hard work that happens prior to matchdays and coach trips

I can put my hands up in the air and say I havent helped out, the only thing i do is the bonus ball, which i hope, raises a bit of money to go to things like displays, etc. Can people honestly say that they have given their heart and soul into making the eastbank a more vibrant and colourful atmosphere?

There is obviously a pattern occuring in which we are:

Having good displays
Running out of ideas for displays
No talk about displays
Lack of interest from members

Wob, I know how much time and effort you put in, creating and successfully selling scarves, banners, flags, and I for one, don't want your effort to end. It's people such as yourself that have raised the profile of the RBA. Please consider your decision mate, because I know for a fact there are plenty of people that do not know what is going on behind the scenes.

Dangerous Dave · Staff Sergeant

I agree with Chappie's points wholeheartedly, but I also see where Wob is coming from as well with his points.

Darryl, also fantastic shout from you there.

Personally, I'd like to see you stay on board Wob, and I like the passion in Chappie's argument.
What I will say is though is as an idea, is there any possibility that all RBA Committee meetings take place before matches in Wally's Bar on a Saturday (for example we had one before the Salisbury game 10 days before we got promoted in 2007/08) so everyone in the RBA can take part in the decision-making processes.

We have a superb platform with which to represent OUR club. Lets not see it go to waste.

Thoughts?

RBA DJ · Lieutenant

Sounds like a good idea to me Dave

YateleyShot · Lieutenant

I've remained quiet throughout this although have observed carefully and appreciate everyone points and opinions on the matter.

What the RBA does is good, the social events, the away travel and all the other bits and pieces are both a credit to the club and the supporters of the club, but not what I joined the RBA for.

When I first browsed the website quite a while ago now I saw colour, passion and displays - exactly what I wanted to be part of, I wanted to be the guy helping out with and conducting those displays that had dominated the eastbank for previous years - as far as I was aware, at the time the away travel, the social events were just a bonus, something else that made the group look good from a "guests" point of view.

This season the tifo quite frankly hasn't happened, yes the first 7-8 games were absolutely brilliant and the rest of the season looked really positive - but what happened from there?! The tifo just totally slipped and nobody really cared about it - and any time anyone tried to question it the answer was "broken sewing machine" or something along those lines...so it became rather pointless.

The RBA is now set-up and run correctly for it's members, thats a fact - everyone who participates in social events and away travel enjoys them - but it is not (as far as I am concerned looking back on old website pages) what the RBA was set-up for in 2005 or the group that I joined last christmas time which is why I've lost interest.

I feel like I'm repeating myself here but I'm not saying the RBA is a bad group by any means - it's just not what I joined the group for, hence why it's not for me.

jax · Second Lieutenant

interesting points by all ...but why moan and whinge like biatches .....do something about it !

lack of sewing machine is a minor detail , we all have family and surely 1 person must know someone who has one !

again with the displays i helped out with one of them whilst i was pregnant and soph contributed to 2 displays , what makes me see red is like i said earlier moaning about not enough displays etc is a joke !

the RBA are an asset to the club !

why quit when you can make a change!

Enkaypee · Second Lieutenant

i can see what everyone is trying to say, but i agree with jax that if you want something to change, you have to be prepared to do something about it. i can see that certain people always seem to put in soooo much effort, and if others don't take such an active role, the RBA is never going to move on in the way that they want. i know i don't get involved as much as some, but that's due to personal reasons, so i chip in when and where i can and try to do my bit.

ok ill admit it, i don't really know what the RBA was originally set up for, or what its ethos or aims were, but i joined the rba because the people are great and i love and support the team and want to show it as much as possible. im not saying that people who arent members don't love or support aldershot or anything like that, dont get me wrong, but im just saying that what the RBA does is great, everyone loves what we do, i personally like the RBA as a group, and if something needs changing then get on and do it!!

x

wob · Captain

That sums up my point really, it's a good group for socialisng and travelling to games together. I'm glad you enjoy being part of the RBA and I can see why you were attracted to it and why you enjoy being a member. But as I've said, it's not the reason I joined and the original point has changed, which is why I no longer feel the need to be a part of it.

As for "doing something about it" ... we are :)

RBA DJ · Lieutenant

I hope this will not stop you participating in any displays we have? And also share any views you have because it takes balls for someone to voice their opinion publicly. It was well needed and maybe give the RBA a kick up the arse

Chappie · Major

Dangerous Dave wrote:

What I will say is though is as an idea, is there any possibility that all RBA Committee meetings take place before matches in Wally's Bar on a Saturday (for example we had one before the Salisbury game 10 days before we got promoted in 2007/08) so everyone in the RBA can take part in the decision-making processes.

Thoughts?

Dave, I think this is a good idea and I will be putting it forward at the next meeting. I think this will help give more input for members and improve communication.