Rovers Kit Change Angers Some Fans

With Blackburn Rovers set to change both the home and away kits for the second season running at the end of the current campaign not all fans approve.

The new home kit design isn't much different from the current seasons shirt, the away shirt however has reverted back to the Championship winning design of Red and Black halves.

Unbelievably the home shirt will change for the fourth season running! But the club insist the yearly alterations are being made in full consultation with the fans. Rovers managing director Tom Finn said:

"The club, like most others, changes its shirt every year as it states in our customer charter and we are open about it.

"It is changed for a combination of reasons, it's what the fans want, and merchandise income is very important.

"We consult the fans and they helped choose the design. It's a personal choice, some fans want a new shirt each year, but we get many more supporters on the terraces wearing shirts from previous years."

Many fans view the change yet again as a bit much, and I have to say I agree.

"My wife and I only got one last year and have spent £426 on a season ticket as it is, that's cost enough and you've got to budget," said Jim Catlow, chairman of the North Lancashire branch of the Blackburn Rovers Supporters` Association.

"I think it is a bit cheeky. It's a lot of money, but I'll probably end up getting one," said fan Tim Raynor.

"I never buy a shirt as I am not prepared to pay £40 for one. Bringing a shirt out every year is asking too much," said fan Paul Briggs.

One fan who didn't share the opinion was 16-year-old Chris Hughes (I only point out his age as it does bare relevance to a point I'll make next, although this applies to younger Children really.) He said:

"I think it is fair enough. If supporters don't want to change their shirt, then they don't have to.

"It is a lot of money, but I will probably buy it."

Obviously the home shirt will change little, if at all at any time merely the kit manufacturer and sponsors will alter dramatically over the years so updating isn't necessary but some (especially children!) feel this is essential and a families with two or three kids will spend a small fortune updating year after year.

I think the traditional changing every other year is more than acceptable and should be made a requirement and not just an "optional" thing…

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