Stones give students a lesson in football

Tuesday 21st February 2006

Students from Invicta Grammar School have teamed up with Maidstone United to raise awareness of the club ahead of its return to the county town.

The A-level business studies students have been working on a marketing plan to re-establish the football club amongst the business community and residents. This included taking to the streets of Maidstone to find out what people knew about the Stones and plans for the new football ground.

79% of those interviewed knew of Maidstone United Football Club but 85% did not know that the club currently plays its home fixtures at Bourne Park, Sittingbourne. The survey also revealed that 58% were not aware of plans for the new stadium at James Whatman Way, opposite the White Rabbit public house.

80% of interviewees support a local football team but 39% would definitely or consider going to a game once the club returns to Maidstone.

Chairman Paul Bowden Brown told www.maidstoneunited.co.uk: "The students have put a great deal of effort and enthusiasm into this project. The public questionnaire has highlighted some action points to put the club back into the heart of the community."

Business Studies teacher Anna Quaye commented: "We are very pleased to be working with Maidstone United Football Club. The students are benefiting greatly by working with a real business within their community. Working with Maidstone United has really been of interest to the students, and they are looking forward to being able to put some of their ideas into practice. All 11 students working on this project, would now definitely class themselves as Maidstone United fans!"

Year 12 student Lynne Medlock added: "It is a great opportunity to develop my marketing skills, while working with a real local business. This is really helping with my AS coursework and we hope to be able to make a genuine difference to Maidstone United."

The student's research and marketing plans will be presented to the club later this year.