Eagles’ business model must be sound for them to succeed on the track

Supporters packed the clubroom at Arlington Stadium to learn from the managers what had happened through the winter and of plans for the 2019 season, which begins in April.

Directors Jon Cook and Ian Jordan were joined on the top table by promoters Trevor Geer and Mike Bellerby, along with headline sponsor, Les Fineing, of Fineprint and Barry Johnson the club’s staff training and health and safety officer.

Commercial director, Ian Jordan, explained to fans that speedway would have to pay its way. The death, last year, of Bob Dugard, meant there was nobody in the background to “sign the cheques” to cover outstanding debts at the end of the season.

Mr Jordan said a professional and business-like approach had been taken and something, perhaps unique in speedway had happened – a detailed business model had been built, rather than a model which relied on a benefactor.

He said the club’s managers would have profit and loss figures available within a couple of days of every meeting.

Director of Speedway, Jon Cook, told the fans they could look forward to having an out-and-out No 1 Richard Lawson.