Sydney FC Chief Executive stresses vital role of fans

Sydney FC Chief Executive Danny Townsend believes transparency and dialogue between A-League clubs and fans is key for the future of the game.

Townsend joined Sydney FC last year and has sinc been part of their A-League success, driving record memberships and dealing with the redevelopment of their home ground, Allianz Stadium.

The former National Soccer League midfielder is active on social media, engaging with both Sydney FC and other A-League fans on talking points.

Townsend (pictured) told the FTBL website, "I am in contact with fans regularly on social media and fan forums.

"Also on matchday when they have questions or concerns that need to be addressed.

"I think it's important our club is as transparent as possible with our fans and members.

"I think the most important opinions I get from fans are around match day experience and how we can grow our attendances.

"What are the things that would get fans off their couch and engaging with out club?"

The new Football Federartion Australia (FFA) Board is set to take shape on 19th November at the FFA's AGM in a landmark day for Australian football as Congress elect a new board and chairman to lead the sport into the future.

On Tuesday, seven of the 11 candidates fronted a community forum in Melbourne to outline their visions for the game and open up the election process to the public in a new era of transparency in Australian football's governance.

PricewaterhouseCoopers board member and the FFA chair candidate Joseph Carozzi stressed the importance of fans and insisted "fans own the game" adding "without them, there are no sponsors, no government control, no players, no game. We must be willing to be open with fans."

Other candidates including SBS chief analyst Craig Foster and former Soccer Australia Chairman and ex-Newcastle Jets Director of Football Remo Nogarotto echoed the sentiment for the game to evolve around the fans.

As reported by FTBL, Townsend said he shared the same conviction, concluding "fans definitely need a voice.

"Their opinions should be taken into consideration in all decisions that relate to the governance of the game."