Planet Swans ArchivesThe initiative follows a resolution approved at the FSF’s ruling Football Fans’ Parliament held at Arsenal Stadium, London last June.
Following two open meetings held in Wrexham and Cardiff a decision was made to organise a “Fans’ Embassy” operation in Milan for the European Championship qualifier against Italy.
This included a special information magazine called “Read Dragon” which was distributed with the Wales fanzine “The Dragon Has Landed”. Commenting on the meeting acting FSF Cymru/Wales co-ordinator Steven Powell said, “Events in the San Siro proved the need for Wales fans to get organised.
The bombardment of our sector from above was totally unacceptable. The penalty levied by UEFA was no more than a slap on the wrist. Being on the spot the “Fans’ Embassy” was able to live a fans’ perspective on this.
We were also able to help fans with other problems, like the group who were thrown out of their hotel in Turin and left on the pavement with no transport to Milan after the misbehaviour of another group in the same hotel.
“The intervention of Fans’ Embassy volunteers enabled these supporters to get back into the hotel. We also ensured that transport was laid on for them to get to Milan for the game. “The meeting on Saturday will discuss building on this work. It’ll also elect officers and a committee to carry the work forward. We all hope to be in Portugal this summer.
Wherever Wales plays in the future, supporters must have a voice. We look forward to meeting fellow supporters on Saturday.
The meeting will take place at: CLWB IFOR BACH WOMANBY STREET CARDIFF CF101BR On Saturday 10 October 2003, starting at 3.00pm.
The venue is within a few minutes walking distance of the Millennium Stadium.FSF PRESS RELEASE2 The FSF is also continuing to appeal for Wales supporters to contact it with written statements regarding the events in Milan.
Said Powell, “We’re building a dossier of statements which will be presented to the football authorities. We need to make sure that the events in Milan aren’t brushed under the carpet.” Supporters can post their statements to: FSF Cymru/Wales, PO Box 25874, London, N5 1WR Steve Powell: sl.powell@virgin.net
