We now are able to offer 2019/20 members clarity on how either cancellation or resumption (behind closed doors) of the current Sky Bet Championship season impacts remaining entitled fixtures.
Following a statement from the UK Government instructing that, if safe to play, all remaining fixtures of the current campaign are to be played behind closed doors, we have been working on creating solutions that are favourable for both Club and seasonal members, who entitled to four remaining 2019/20 home league fixtures (vs Millwall, Blackburn, Wigan, Nottingham Forest).
We appreciate that no single solution meets the collective requirements of all parties, therefore we are offering supporters choice.
As we continue on the road back to normality, we must not forget the thousands of Reds fans, who have worked tirelessly against coronavirus. To thank those individuals for their dedication, sacrifice and bravery, we wanted to offer experiences to ‘look forward to’.
Following the 6,000 complimentary tickets that we have already offered to the NHS and key workers in our local community, supporters can donate their outstanding games accredited to their 2019/20 seasonal pass and contribute to that tally.
We also understand the financial position that this pandemic has put supporters in, coupled with the doubts fans may have about returning to Oakwell once permitted to do so. Therefore, we would be happy to honour your outstanding home games by-way of a four game ‘Flexi-Ticket’.
Subject to availability, this ticket will allow supporters a seat to four home games over the next two seasons (2020/21, 2021/22), regardless of division or opposition. Note, if you donate your tickets, you will not be eligible for a ‘four game flexi’.
Ordinarily at this time, seasonal passes would be on sale for the next campaign. However, the decision was made prior to lockdown to postpone sales until we further understood our position, both financially and within the EFL.
The last two months have proved inconclusive on both matters. Yet, what we do know is that football will return to Oakwell. But being open and honest, we do not know when. With our most reliable revenue streams (matchday, commercial dealings and player trading) frozen for the foreseeable future, like many throughout the EFL, we are now operating at a significant loss.
Due to this uncertainty and the need for urgent earnings to preserve the Club’s immediate financial future, seasonal passes will shortly be made available for the 2020/21 season at heavily discounted rates. During the first month of sales, an exclusive ‘flat rate’ will be in operation across the stadium. If you opt to renew your seat, you will still be entitled to either donate your remaining 19/20 games or claim a ‘four game flexi’.
Also, inline with trying to do the right thing for our supporters, if other options are deemed unsuitable, we will attempt to offer pro-rata refunds for those entitled to four home 2019/20 fixtures.
Despite this move being detremental to the Club (if 9,000+ seasonal members opt for refunds, significant strains will be exerted on our cash-flow (approximately -£400,000)), it is morally a necessity.
More information relating to 2020/21 seasonal passes will be published this week.
Match ticket purchasers
Match ticket purchasers for the away fixture at Queens Park Rangers are entitled to a full refund. Note, the London Club are asking for those supporters to provide their ticket before accepting a refund. Any requested refunds can only be made via the original method of payment.
Those who have outstanding individual home match tickets, options one, two and four (above) apply. Note, instead of a four game flexi ticket, subject to availability, you will be able to redeem your single match ticket for any home game over the next two seasons (2020/21, 2021/22), regardless of division or opposition.
Corporate Hospitality
Corporate partners will be contacted by a member of the commercial team throughout June to advise and explain the options available to them.
Ticket Office Re-Opening
Until the correct measures have been put in place to ensure safety of staff and supporters, the Box Office at Oakwell will remain closed.
Please be aware that the Club will not discriminate against those shielding or unable to safely travel to Oakwell at this time. All offers will remain valid until UK Government restrictions are loosend, allowing for extended freedom of movement.
However, a direct phoneline and email address have been set up to deal with queries relating to matters within this article.
01226 211 183 | Memberships@barnsleyfc.co.uk
These accounts will be live and manned during regular office hours from 27 May.
We would like to thank all of our supporters for their continued patience and understanding. We will continue to provide further details and communicate all options directly with supporters over the coming weeks.
