Johnny Freeston, founder and managing director of Harpost FC, discusses the challenges of running a non-league soccer club, the club's focus on fostering community, and their goal of providing opportunities for player development. They also talk about the importance of culture and give advice for non-league soccer clubs to make an impact on and off the pitch.
Harpo's Football Club prioritizes community engagement and development, aiming to make a positive impact beyond the soccer field.
The club places a strong emphasis on on-field success, consistently challenging opponents and focusing on a dedicated and passionate fan base.
Building and launching a soccer club involves understanding the business aspects, conducting due diligence, and making strategic decisions.
Deep dives
Jodie Frustin's Soccer Journey and Founding Harpo's Football Club
Jodie Frustin, founder and managing director of Harpo's football club, shares his soccer story from growing up in Pennsylvania to playing at the college and semi-pro levels. He highlights the lessons he learned about teamwork, camaraderie, and fighting through adversity. Frustin explains how Harpo's was formed by bringing together a talented group of players from various backgrounds and creating a strong team culture. He emphasizes the importance of player choice and buy-in, where everyone is passionate about leaving the club better than they found it. The club aims to bring a more formal and engaging matchday experience to fans in the future, focusing on intimate venues that foster authenticity.
The Community Impact of Harpo's Football Club
Harpo's Football Club prioritizes community engagement and development. They have built a strong network of relationships and connections with various individuals and organizations, both locally and globally. From volunteering and community events to coaching and mentoring, Harpo's aims to make a positive impact beyond the soccer field. The club has been involved in charity work, youth development, and creating opportunities for aspiring players. They have also built partnerships with sponsors and are gradually formalizing their structures to enhance the fan experience and create a more professional atmosphere.
Balancing On-Field Success with Off-Field Responsibilities
Harpo's Football Club places a strong emphasis on on-field success, and they have achieved significant accomplishments, winning several trophies and championships. While their matchday attendance may not be massive, their focus is on bringing together a dedicated and passionate fan base. The club prioritizes recruitment and development of high-quality players, creating a competitive team that consistently challenges opponents. They have consciously chosen not to join certain leagues in order to maintain their ethos and control over their operations. Harpo's also acknowledges the need to balance their on-field success with off-field responsibilities and the challenges of managing various aspects of the club, encompassing recruitment, fundraising, day-to-day operations, and communication.
The Challenge of Building and Sustaining a Soccer Club
Building and launching a soccer club involves understanding the business aspects, such as spreadsheets and profit and loss statements. Engaging with experienced professionals like Peter Will and Dennis Crowley provides valuable insights. The process includes exploring various leagues, conducting due diligence, and making strategic decisions. Launching a successful team requires extensive commitment, effort, and financial resources, making it a challenging endeavor.
The Vision of Community, Social Good, and Impact
The ultimate goal of the club is to establish a global network of teams like Manchester City, but with a focus on community and social responsibility. This vision includes creating an environment where everyone can enjoy soccer, fostering excellence on and off the field, and making a positive impact on society. The club aspires to bring together like-minded individuals, contribute to social issues such as DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging), and build a platform for generations to come. The club's ambitions extend beyond the team itself, with ancillary businesses in fields like fashion related to the overall umbrella of the club.
Founder and managing director of Harpost Football Club, Johnny Freeston is our guest today as we discuss the club's history and its success. We touch on the challenges of running the club daily and the secret sources for its success. Freeston, who has led the club to over a dozen trophies and championships, emphasizes the club's goal of fostering community and providing opportunities for players to develop. Then we discuss the importance of culture and advice for non-league soccer clubs in making an impact on the pitch and beyond.
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