Fans adopt football manager mentality to support their household
· 7 in 10 football fans who have a smart meter say it’s been useful in helping them manage their money
· 3 in 4 say the sense of community they get from the game is important
· Former Watford and Birmingham City striker Troy Deeney meets supporters in a new video on how fans are helping each other and managing their lives
Fans are adopting the mindset of a football coach to support their household, new research has revealed.
More than half (55%) are balancing budgets, building morale and assigning roles, just like a manager would, according to a new survey by Smart Energy GB.
The poll of 2,000 football fans found that a third (32%) believe planning healthy meals builds a successful household squad, while almost half (46%) say managing budgets and finances is key.
Supporters also agree that it is important to keep everyone motivated and morale high (40%), and ensure that those around them have different roles and responsibilities (38%) to help solve problems.
Smart Energy GB has teamed up with the English Football League (EFL) and former Watford and Birmingham City striker Troy Deeney to highlight the importance of having a ‘squad’ or support group of people and tools that help those running a household during difficult times.
In a new video, Troy, alongside midfielder Taylor Gardner-Hickman surprise three Birmingham City fans, who revealed how being part of a community at the club has helped them overcome hurdles in life.
Troy Deeney said: “Throughout my time in football I’ve been surrounded by a squad on and off the pitch and having that support network around helped me navigate the highs and lows of life.
“Just like my old managers had a squad of players they trusted, it’s vital that fans can rely on people they trust to have their back, as well as having the best tools to help them feel in control.”
With many struggling with the cost of living, even the smallest things can make a difference when it comes to managing finances. A smart meter can help households get control of their energy bills by showing how much energy is being used and what it costs.
Troy added: “If you’re struggling with bills, a smart meter could help you. My nan recently had one installed, and it’s great for us, as part of her squad, to know that she is getting accurate energy bills and a better understanding of what she’s spending.”
Of the two thirds (68%) of football fans with a smart meter installed, 71% have found it useful in helping manage their money.
They are installed at no extra cost by energy suppliers and owners who say that they’ve saved money since getting one, estimate it has lowered their energy costs by £176 a year.*
While smart meters prove useful in helping fans feel more in control, having a support network of family and friends to form the squad is also vital.
For more than three-quarters of football fans (78%), feeling part of a community while supporting their team is also significant.
As well as fostering a sense of a belonging among the fans, almost all supporters (95%) think it’s important their club plays a role in their local community too.
And being part of that loyal and dedicated community when supporting your team is just the start for fans, with many friendships formed on matchday blossoming into friends for life.
Four in five (79%) find it easy to bond with someone over a shared love of the sport, whether that be because it brings out genuine passion in people (52%), creates mutual respect (35%), or reminds them of growing up and nostalgic memories of family (32%).
Philippa Brown, vulnerable audience specialist at Smart Energy GB, said: “For many people, football clubs are the beating heart of their communities - they bring people together in a way few things can.
“Across Britain, organisations like the English Football League are working hard to support people with their health and wellbeing, or even their finances.
“If you’re struggling with your energy bills, a smart meter can be another tool to help you keep track of how much you’re spending, and find small ways to save.”