Hartlepool United fans halfway to £30,000 goal as hundreds donate to budget booster

A total of 380 fans have so far contributed to the fund, which aims to raise a total of £30,000.

The aim of the new initiative is to help boost Pools’ budget through the coronavirus pandemic and into the 2020-21 season and help top up boss Dave Challinor’s playing budget for next season.

Several fans have donated three-figure sums to the gofundme page with fans of all ages making a contribution.

Pools fan Gary White has helped set it up and there are plenty of incentives from the club to get fans involved including training ground experiences, matchday hospitality and much more.

Details of all the incentives can be seen on the gofundme page.

A Pools statement read: “The club has been inundated with requests as to how Pools fans can assist with the current challenges we face and now we are humbled again by the launch of a fundraiser designed to boost Dave Challinor's playing budget next season.”

The club has confirmed that all funds will be directed towards the playing budget for next season. All football is currently suspended and it is not yet clear when the 2020-21 campaign will be able to start as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

Challinor has this week spoken about the challenges facing clubs when it comes to planning for next season and sorting contracts for players.

On the Pools Budget Booster, a club statement added: “Every contributor will be entered into a prize draw where two lucky winners will be selected for a unique Pools experience.

“Starting with a training ground experience in the week leading up to a selected fixture. Join Dave Challinor as he discusses his plans for the weekend and you will watch the full training session and preparations as well as meeting the entire squad.

“Then join Dave and the squad as part of the team as we travel to an away fixture on the team coach.

“Enjoy a pre-match meal with the players, the team meeting and a post match debrief as you travel home with the team.

“Runners up prizes of a signed shirt for five runners up, and signed team photo for 10 runners up.”

Meanwhile, fans who donate more than £50 will benefit from an executive lounge experience for two, access to the executive lounge on a selected match day with a visit from a member of the squad and a post match debrief from Challinor.

Anyone who donates more than £100 will benefit from a match day invitation to the chairman’s suite as well as a post-match visit to the manager’s office for a chat plus a chance to join the team for the annual pre-season photo shoot.

If you would like to make a contribution visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/pools-budget-booster