Newport County AFC Asks Fans To Contribute £100,000 Annually For Playing Budget

League Two Side Newport County AFC "fans will be asked to contribute" a combined total of £100,000 ($125,000) per year toward "the club's playing budget via monthly donations," according to Andrew Penman of the SOUTH WALES ARGUS. In a communication sent to supporters Monday, the Exiles outlined plans for a "rewards and benefits scheme" based on monthly contributions from fans. The club statement said, "We are conscious that in order to become a fully sustainable fan-owned club we need to develop a diverse range of income streams. In order to achieve this we believe the rewards and benefits scheme -- based on payment options to meet all budgets -- will be critical for our future progression as a club. ... As a result of our review we have set a target to provide a secure, annual income of £100k for the club through supporters making monthly donations, with all money raised being used to enhance the club's playing budget" (SOUTH WALES ARGUS, 2/6).