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A legal document will be signed by the Football Club and "Shots Player Share Ltd" outlining the details of the agreement which has been given the approval of the Football Club's Investment Board. The scheme is subject to Football League and Football Association approval which is being sought.
Individuals and companies can buy shares in the new company to help enhance the playing squad and the future of Aldershot Town FC. In essence individuals who become shareholders in "Shots Player Share Ltd" will be agreeing to support the playing strength of the team both directly and indirectly through the re-lending of any transfer proceeds received.
The idea is based on a concept used at AFC Bournemouth called "Player Share" which has successfully raised over £500,000 for the Dorset-based club over a five year period. When Bournemouth were promoted at Cardiff via the play-offs in 2002-2003 six of the players on show were funded out of "Player Share". Nick Douch - the Chairman of Playershare Ltd at AFC Bournemouth said "Being a Playershare shareholder has allowed fans to feel even closer to the team than the average supporter. Watching a player that the company has supported do well for the football club has given us all a special "buzz".
Jonny Dixon was purchased out of a "Player Transfer Fund" set up by Brian Bloomfield and Nick Fryer in 2007 which raised the £6,000 required by Wycombe Wanderers FC. He was subsequently sold to Brighton for £56,000 in January 2008. The remains of that transfer fund will be amalgamated into the "Shots Player Share Ltd.
Manager Gary Waddock said "I am very appreciative of the people setting up this idea. It will be a massive help to me.
"It could be the difference in helping to bring in the type of players we need to progress further.
"I can't wait for the official launch and to see some money coming in. I know it's hard times for everyone but this could give me the opportunity to compete at the right end of the table.
"The scheme and those involved have my 100% backing."
The four individuals forming "Shots Player Share Ltd" are:
Nick Fryer - Lifelong Shots fan and currently the Club's Press Officer.
Simon Groves - Currently the Club's Legal Adviser and member of the operations board.
Simon Haywood - MD of Aerial Express Ltd, Aldershot fan for more than 30 years and currently a Patron of Aldershot Town FC.
Ian Dawkins - MD of Hi Speed Couriers - Former main sponsor of the Club.
The company will be formed with one aim and one aim only, helping Aldershot Town Football Club to improve its playing strength. Prior to the launch over £38,000 has been pledged to kick off the company.
Further news on how you can get involved in this exciting concept will be announced soon via the clubs official website and other press and media outlets.