Membership Fees

Introduction

St Cadoc’s Youth Club (SCYC) has been a pillar of youth football and community engagement since 1987, providing high-quality coaching, facilities, and development opportunities for young players. However, despite significant increases in operating costs over the past five years (Pre COVID pandemic), our membership fees have remained unchanged. To continue delivering the best possible experience for our players while ensuring the club's financial sustainability, we must adjust our membership fees across all age groups: 11-a-side, 7/9-a-side, and 4/5-a-side.

After extensive discussion with key stakeholders within the club this narrative hopefully explains why this increase is necessary, highlighting rising operational costs, inflationary pressures, benchmarking against other clubs, and the unparalleled value SCYC provides to its members.

Why the Fee Increase is Necessary?

1. Rising Costs of Operations

The costs of running a high-quality football club have escalated due to inflation and growing demand. Key cost increases include:

• Inflation: The Retail Price Index (RPI) has surged by 25-30% since July 2019, directly impacting our expenses.
• Pitch Hire Costs: The cost of lets for the 3G pitch at Eastwood High School has risen by 40% since 2024 alone
• Kit and Equipment: Prices for playing and training kits (increases of 25% since 2019), footballs, cones, and other training essentials have risen significantly due to supply chain costs and production inflation.
• Referee Fees: Match official costs have steadily increased in line with league and association regulations.
• Coaching and Qualifications: To maintain high coaching standards, we invest in courses such as SFA Level 1.1 to 1.3, first aid, and safeguarding training. These fees continue to rise each year.
• Administrative & Insurance Costs: Registration, insurance policies, administration and operational software have seen notable cost increases.

Without an increase in fees, maintaining our current standard of operations would become increasingly difficult, potentially compromising the quality of training, facilities, and overall experience for our players.

2. Benchmarking Against Other Clubs (11 a-side)

An analysis of football clubs across Scotland shows that SCYC is currently charging well below the regional average.

Current Market Rates for 11-a-side Teams (Monthly Fees):

• West / West Coast: £35 - £45
• Central Scotland: £30 - £35
• East Scotland: £25 - £30

Our fees are currently below these regional averages, despite our commitment to providing top-tier coaching, facilities, and player development. Adjusting fees will bring SCYC in line with comparable clubs, ensuring sustainability without compromising accessibility.

3. Value for Money: What Members Receive (11 A-side as example)

Despite being among the most affordable clubs in our region, SCYC delivers an exceptional experience for players and families. Increasing membership fees will allow us to maintain and enhance these commitments:

• Two high-quality training sessions per week (during school term)
• League matches in accordance with fixture schedules
• Training and matchday pitch hire at premium venues
• Match kits provided for all players
• Essential training equipment (balls, cones, bibs, etc.)
• PVG-checked coaching staff to ensure player safety
• Lead coaches with SFA Level 1.3 qualifications
• Continuous CPD opportunities for coaches
• Investment in SFA coach education courses
• League and matchday entry/registration fees covered
• Comprehensive insurance for players and staff
• Emergency first aid-trained coach at all sessions
• Fully stocked first aid kits
• Referee fees included
• Administrative costs (MyClubHub, accounting services, etc.)
• Annual presentation day / evening with trophies and medals

Proposed Fee Structure (Effective 1st April 2025)

Cost Per Contact Hour Comparison

Even with the proposed increase, SCYC remains one of the most cost-effective structured sports activities in the area.

Even with the revised fees, SCYC continues to provide exceptional value compared to alternative activities available to local young people.

Conclusion

The stated fee adjustment is not just a necessity but a vital step to safeguard the future of St Cadoc’s Youth Club. By implementing these changes from 1st April 2025, we can:

• Sustain high-quality coaching, training, and matchday experiences
• Ensure financial stability in response to rising costs
• Remain competitive with other clubs in our region
• Continue investing in coach education, player welfare, and facilities

We appreciate the continued support of our members, and we remain committed to providing an affordable, high-quality football experience for all players. With this revised fee structure, SCYC will be able to thrive and grow, ensuring that future generations continue to benefit from the club's outstanding football program.

Your support in this transition is invaluable, and we thank you for being part of the St Cadocs family.

St Cadoc's Youth Club Board