After a season long absence, Everton fans now have a voice on the Football Supporters Association’s (FSA) National Council, following the election of Paul Rigby from the independent Everton Fan Advisory Board for a 3-year term. The election was open to all Affiliate and Associate club members of the FSA. 

The FSA is a national, democratic, representative body for football supporters in England and Wales and a leading advocate for supporter ownership, better fan engagement, cheaper ticket prices, protecting fan rights, diversity, and all types of supporter empowerment.

The FSA National Committee comprises representatives from across the football pyramid and plays a key role in implementing FSA plans and informing strategy on a wide range of football issues that impact supporters.  It also includes dialogue with some of the footballing authorities, such as the Premier League.

Commenting on his election, Paul said: “I was elected to the Everton FAB in 2023. It became clear to me that there was much overlap with the  challenges facing Everton and those being addressed at a National level through the FSA”

“The FAB felt it important to reestablish its position at a National level with the FSA, as the overlap in issues we see at our club are mirrored elsewhere. While there will always be rivalry, there is solidarity amongst the fan bases for our collective voices to be heard”

“There are complex global, political, social, cultural, and economic shifts in play impacting the modern game of football. As such our FAB  support the appointment of an Independent Football Regulator but also the growth and establishment of independent fan groups like ourselves at clubs to ensure the voice of the fan is heard and that consultation with supporters is meaningful”  

EFC FAB Chair, Dave Kelly said: “I’m delighted Paul is now a member of the FSA National Council. I know he’ll add real value and crucially, will ensure that the views and opinions of Evertonians can be heard on some very important issues for supporters, such as ticket pricing and the legislation before Parliament to introduce a new Regulator.

“We need to be clear that Supporters are any club’s greatest asset, but only collectively will we be the catalyst for change that will drive our game forward in line with fan demands.”The FAB is also encouraging Everton supporters and Everton supporter groups to become members of the FSA.  There are already 14 EFC supporter groups with associate membership, which enables members to vote on certain issues.

“We’d urge all Blues to sign up to the FSA either as an individual or if you represent a supporter group.  It doesn’t cost anything and is easy to do.  Membership means that supporters will get regular updates on the work of the FSA, its campaigns and the opportunity to get involved.  We have over 150 supporter groups across the globe and with 14 already on board, we’d love to see as many Everton groups sign up as possible”

Individual membership can be accessed here: Join – Football Supporters’ Association (thefsa.org.uk)

Supporter Group membership can be accessed here: Affiliates and associates – Football Supporters’ Association (thefsa.org.uk)