Read the first set of programme notes from new CEO Ian Mather, as we preview tomorrow’s edition of the newly named “Amber Rambler” Match Day Programme.
The Amber Rambler will be available to buy around the ground, from the CFU Van, and in the club shop for just £3. Tickets for tomorrow’s fixture are still available online here, and will also be available in the ticket office on match day until kick off at 3:00pm.
In line with the Next Chapter campaign, the match day programme has a fresh look for the 2019/20 season with the Club taking on board feedback from supporters and in particular CUSP through the summer, in order to produce the content desired directly by the Amber Army.
This week’s edition has a special front cover featuring Cayden Tickner as part of the celebration of his life which is set to take place across tomorrow’s match day. Read more here.
Meanwhile, Cambridge United’s recently appointed CEO Ian Mather opens up the programme and sets out the five pillars that will shape his ambitions for the Club. A preview of his column is available below:
FROM THE CEO
Ian Mather
Welcome to a new season at The Abbey. This is a time when all football fans can dare to dream. I am no exception. To those who have made the long journey across the country I hope you have a good day and take away happy memories of the wonderful city that is Cambridge – but no points!
I was appointed as CEO of this great club last week. It is a privilege to do this job and work with the talented, dedicated and enthusiastic staff that work here.
This programme gives me an early opportunity to give fans some detail about me and what I believe are the priorities for the season and beyond.
I have been a supporter since I moved to Cambridge in 1982 and over the years to 2018 I worked as a solicitor in this city. My first involvement with the club goes back to the Reg Smart days when I provided advice to the club. I remember the John Beck era and was aware of his tactical approach - both on and off the pitch. It was an interesting time. More recently I joined the Club Board in June 2018, stepping down last week to take on the CEO role on an interim basis, though I have committed to do this for a year. I hope my appointment can help bring further stability.
I retired as a solicitor in May 2018. At that point I headed the Cambridge office of Mills & Reeve with a staff of over 300 and 170 lawyers. It was, and still is, an exceptional law firm. Their culture is clearly focused on getting the best out of their people - motivating by encouraging everyone who works there to achieve the best that they can. You don't get to be a Sunday Times Best 100 employer 16 years in a row without really understanding how to manage people. I intend to bring that thinking with me into the Abbey.
Also in tomorrow’s edition:
Colin Calderwood – Head Coach
Newport County A.F.C – Away Profile
The Boys are Back in Town – Leigh Edwards
Evad Community Hero – Cayden Tickner
Andrew Dallas – Player Feature
Every Picture Tells a Story – Happy Harry
Remembering 50 and 30 – Nigel Browne
Eleven to Tackle Quiz – Amber Gascoigne
Around the Division – Owen Mizon
Hot off the Habbin – Andrew Stephen
Academy Matters – Tom Pell
Getting to know U – Youth Team – Harvey Steel
Dream Five O’s – Dimitar Mitov
The 12th Fan – Jack Beeton
Marvin’s Message – Junior U’s