Terras Supporters
I want to provide a further update and clearer explanation regarding our Under-16s admission policy, following the feedback we have received.
After police advice and internal review, we identified a genuine gap in how Under-16s were able to access the stadium. In simple terms, a significant number of young supporters were able to attend matches without an accompanying adult and without the club holding any details about who they were or who was responsible for them.
Over recent years, responsibilities on clubs and venues regarding the safeguarding of minors have tightened considerably. Ultimately, when a child enters the Bob Lucas Stadium unaccompanied, the duty of care for their safety sits with Weymouth Football Club. That responsibility is far easier to manage when the club holds a record of who a young supporter is or who we should contact if something were to happen.
This issue was brought to our attention with upcoming matches, where a high number of Under-16 tickets were purchased by individuals who would not ordinarily attend our games. That raised concerns about a policy that, while well-intentioned, could be open to misuse and did not adequately protect the club or young supporters.
With that in mind, we have updated the policy as follows:
– *Supporters aged 13–15 may attend matches if they are accompanied by a responsible adult*, or
– *They may attend unaccompanied if they hold a valid season ticket issued by Weymouth FC*
For a “free” Under-16 season ticket, we will require identification and guardian contact details to be held on record. We will endeavour to process and issue these season tickets as quickly as possible, including same-day issue where feasible. A season ticket will be required for ground entry unless with an accompanying adult.
This approach mirrors how we already manage youth team season tickets, where player details and next-of-kin information are known. We feel this creates a clear pathway to allow young supporters to continue attending matches while ensuring the club meets its safeguarding obligations.
I want to be clear: “this is not a money-driven decision”, nor is it intended to stop our regular young supporters from coming to games. It is about refining a policy to ensure we act responsibly in an environment where expectations on clubs have rightly increased.
As always, this policy will remain under review, and we will continue to listen to feedback as we move forward. Thank you for your understanding, your patience, and your continued support of Weymouth Football Club.
A link is available on our website to complete the U16’s Season Ticket application, I encourage supporters to complete this as soon as possible.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Ralph Ricardo – Weymouth Football Club Chairman
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Inline with our established ground rules, under 13’s are still required to be accompanied by a responsible adult.
All under 16’s tickets that have been purchased without an accompanying adult for the Poole Town game, and following matches, will be cancelled and the new policy implemented.
Please complete the online form or print off the form below to apply for your season ticket
