Roll Up, Roll Up, Get your 12th Man Mugs!

Despite the turmoil to our December fixture list, OxVox's '12th Man Wembley Mug' have moved over 375 mugs in the last four weeks. Naturally we're keen to sell off the remaining 140 or so 12th Man mugs a.s.a.p.

If you want one or more, please order in the next few days by eBay at

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220717430719

We are now shipping mug orders out by first class post day by day, across the country, across the country and across Europe.

Don't miss out, order today!

Bridle Bonanza

Oxford's 12th Men helped to make the recent Bridle Bonanza game against Macclesfield Town a huge success.

The attendance of 9440 was the highest home gate of the season so far and the players and management sent over 9350 people home happy.

Thank You to Bridle Insurance and the staff of Oxford United for making this an eventful day.

C'mon you Yellows!

12th MAN BACK BRIDLE CHRISTMAS BONANZA!!

WE'RE BACKING THE BRIDLE CHRISTMAS BONANZA!!

07 December 2010


Strap yourself in and hold tight for the Bridle Christmas Bonanza that has been confirmed for the 28th of December 2010 against Macclesfield, adding some extra Christmas cheer to the Kassam stadium this festive period!

With the help of Oxvox and the 12th Man, Bridle are looking for a record attendance (whispers are already rife about a possible full house) and have substantially subsidised the ticket prices.

Tickets sales for the match against the mighty Silkmen from Cheshire have been excellent so far but Bridle could really do with some extra help from the 12th Man faithful and encourage you to buy your tickets to prevent missing out!

Darren Nangle at Bridle Insurance said about the day: “We are excited at our first Bridle Bonanza day and would like to take this opportunity to thank the many supporters who have already insured with us. The day is something different for the whole family with stilt walkers, silver bands, roller skating Christmas puddings, human statues, jazz bands and fire eaters having already confirmed. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Oxfordshire community for really getting behind the event, I’m sure it’s going to be a memorable day”.

This is the perfect Christmas present or just a good excuse to enjoy an Oxford United win (fingers crossed), come and join the Bridle team cheering on the mighty U’s.

Call Bridle now on 01993 772957 to buy your tickets for the match.

12th Man mugs - eBay link

The eBay link to buy mugs online for postal delivery has changed to

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220704822056

Mugs delivered by post cost £5 plus £3.50 postage and packing per mug.

12th Man Mug - Now Available!

OxVox is pleased to unveil its latest 12th Man fundraising initiative, a commemorative Wembley promotion mug.

The bone china mug shows a cartoon of the three goalscorers and the score from United’s memorable win at Wembley, which secured promotion back the Football League. James Constable, Matt Green, and Alfie Potter are all depicted celebrating on one of the finest moments in United’s history.

The item is already on sale on eBay and will also be on sale in the Exhibition Bar before and after Tuesday night’s home match against Torquay United. Each mug costs £5 and all the profits will be donated to the 12th Man Fund. The mugs will then be on sale at all the home games in the lead up to Christmas or whilst stocks last.

OxVox committee member Simon Bradbury said:

“We are always looking at exciting ideas to expand and develop the 12th Man brand and a number of supporters approached the fund and suggested a commermorative mug be produced. OxVox took up the task and with the help of supporter Paul Wakeford, who created the cartoon design based around that eventful day on May 16th, the mugs went into production.

"The initial batch of 500 limited edition mugs represent great value for money and are a perfect stocking filler for any Oxford United supporter this Christmas.”

Note: The figure as at 26th August 2010 for the total raised by 12th Man since it began is £33,809. Of this, a total of £31,170 has now been spent, and £2,639 remained in the fund at that date.

12th Man Mugs - COMING SOON!

12th Man have spent the last few weeks investigating a suitable and attractive design for a potential Christmas 12th Man Mug.

We have decided upon a design which captures the magic of our Play-Off Final win in May, depicting Alfie Potter, James Constable and Matt Green celebrating our return to the Football League.

An order has been placed, with the mugs available for sale in the very near future. We anticipate the 12th Man Mug will be available for a minimum donation of £5.00.

For any enquiries contact Simon at corporate@oxvox.org.uk

Ultimate Support Saturday - Aldershot Town 09.10.10

This Saturday is the first Ultimate Support Saturday. 12th Man is about our supporters and football club coming together for the common cause, this weekend supporters will demonstrate once again how much we love our club.

In the age of all seater stadiums, atmospheres at home games for many teams suffering, Oxford supporters want to buck the trend and show the nation we create brilliant atmospheres.

Ultimate Support Saturday is about everyone getting behind Oxford United and creating an electric atmosphere. After all the talk of improving the atmosphere at home games recently we demonstrated what we can achieve last weekend against Port Vale.

The Oxford Ultras are working hard at improving the atmosphere week in, week out. They have got behind Ultimate Support Saturday and they have a big display planned for the Aldershot game. All will be revealved Saturday. This group deserves a lot of credit and we as fans, appreciate that

The local media are in support of this initiative and the club are also right behind ideas which will improve the matchday experience.

Joe Nicholls who has organised Ultimate Support Saturday explains what the day is about.

Friends and family day - Every Oxford fan is encouraged to bring friends and family, to show them that Oxford United are back, and what a great football club and supporter base we have.

Wear your colours and make the stadium a sea of yellow and blue. Most importantly, to attempt to create one of the best atmospheres ever at the stadium. The middle 2 blocks of the Oxford Mail stand will be designated singing sections for Ultimate Support Saturday, so get online and book your tickets!

Joe has created a facebook group for Ultimate Support Saturday.

www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=104480869615610

Everyone can play their part, by spreading the word and bringing friends, family and singing your hearts this forthcoming weekend.

12th Man Bracelets NOW AVAILABLE!

Friday 17 September 2010

Ardent supporters, Mrs Pam Keen and Mrs Sue Trafford tomorrow launch 12th Man Men and Ladies OUFC bracelets.

With an initial stock of 100, they expect to sell fast and at only £2.50 each they will raise revenue for the 12th Man Fund. They will be available from Sue Trafford's stall, outside the Quadrangle.

Further stock will be ordered on a match by match basis. Grab your must have accessory this weekend!

Wembley squad pictures available now!

Paul Wakeford has produced a special edition print of cartoon images of the Wembley squad (see low res image to get an idea of the layout).

Each print is uniquely numbered and believe it or not under each player's name is an individual signature!

Paul put some miles on the clock of his car driving around to collect the signatures and everyone obliged. The final result is a fine keepsake of the great day in May.

If you want one you will have to hurry as the supply is strictly limited.

The prints are on sale now for £40 framed, and £25 unframed - with one third of each sale going to the 12th Man.

To enquire or to reserve your copy contact Paul by email at doubletake@inbox.com

This time last year the 12th Man was launched. Since then fans have raised nearly £34,000 and helped the club sign six players. Not bad when you consider the target was £10,000 for year one!

You might like to see a breakdown of the main amounts raised - here it is:

• 12th Man badges £6,800
• Priory Pub fund raising £6,600
• Sponsored Walk (October 2009) £4,100
• Individual donations £2,100
• "I was there - Wembley '86" badges £2,100
• Wristbands £1,925
• 12th Man Raffle (team photo) £1,820
• 6 a side tournaments £1,400
• Flag Bearer Scheme £1,350
• Chris Wilder masks £1,000
• Jeremy Charles/Les Phillips 1986 photo £820
• Scott Humphries (cycle ride) £633
  
• Miscellaneous £2,417

Congratulations and thanks to everyone involved. Under Miscellaneous, thanks also go to Andy Hill (London Marathon), Michael North (programme sales), Raging Fever FC (in memory of Dominic Hill), White Hart Bicester, Masons Arms Headington, (12th Man beer), Abbey Press (Open Day posters), Gladiator Club, Cult Zeros, and Ray Whittaker amongst others.

Arguably the biggest 12th Man signing to date was secured over the summer: we are delighted to have helped the club sign Jake Wright on a three-year deal.

So what’s next for the 12th Man? We are finalising some exciting new fund-raising initiatives and merchandise for this season. Meanwhile you can still get involved by being a flag bearer at any home game. For £50 you will get a stadium tour, meet and have photos with Chris Wilder and the team, and lead the players out with the 12th Man flag. If you would like to be a flag bearer email twelfthman@oxvox.org.uk

We aim to keep you up to date with all the latest 12th Man activities on this site.

To donate visit http://www.oxvox.org.uk/news.aspx?id=52

12th Man Fund update

The figure as at 23rd July 2010 (see thermometer image at the right of the page) for the total raised by 12th Man since it began is £32,781. Of this, a total of £31,170 has now been spent, and £1,611 remained in the fund at that date.

To date the fund has been used to assist with financing the signings of the following six players (fund contributions in parentheses) - Jamie Cook (£5,000), Onome Sodje (£3,142), Anthony Tonkin (£10,000), Ashley Cain (£1,000), John Grant (£4,528), and Jake Wright (£7,500).

12th Man Squad Picture

We're pleased to bring you this picture of the 12th Man version of the 2010-11 season Oxford United squad picture, complete with 19 year old Joshua Smith from Long Hanborough, the proud winner of the place in the picture to represent the fans.

We hope you can work out which one is Joshua, given the number of new players coming in this close season, but if you start from club chairman Kelvin Thomas and look around, you shouldn't have too much of a problem.

We expect the picture to be featured on the club website and in the matchday programme pretty soon.

Joshua's obviously enjoying the experience and he had a great time meeting the players.

Joshua's step-dad has also let us have this picture of the two of them at the photo shoot:

2010/11 Squad Photo Raffle

This evening, 11 year old OxVox member, Amber Brightman, made the draw for this seasons 12th Man Squad Photo prize.

The winner was 18 year old, Joshua Smith, from Long Hanborough and he will take his seat in this seasons squad picture, due to be taken next week.

The runner-up, who will win a copy of the Play-Off Final win, was HK Yellow, from HK

Thank You all who purchased a ticket or 100 and to Trevor Lambert and Andy Cantwell who sold a large number of the tickets in aid of the fund.

World Cup Competition result!

As you probably know by now, Spain beat Holland 1-0 yesterday in extra time in the World Cup Final.

The World Cup Competition scores have been calculated and the winner is declared to be Anthony Williams, who came through the field, having correctly tipped Holland and Spain to progress through to the semi-finals and the final, and Spain to win.

Congratulations to Anthony who wins narrowly by two points from Gilo, with an almost identical record but one fewer correct tips at the quarter final stage (five tipped correctly as opposed to six for Anthony). Sheedy11, the early leader, unfortunately did not pick any of the four semi-finalists. OxVox Neil ran the first two close, five points further back, but tipped Germany to contest the final with Spain.

A word of commiseration for trust committee member Brahma Bull bringing up the rear with Nightowl on 18 points. Don't give up the day job, BB!

Full results: Anthony Williams 49, Gilo 47, OxVox Neil 42, Adelino 41, Graham Neal 38, Mark Merritt 36, Mad Mick 35, Matt Derbyshire 33, Ian Faulkner 33, Sheedy11 25, KerryB 25, Phil Hawke 25, Yellow Dragon 24, Scoob 23, Clare-Mc 23, Chris Davis 21, Brahma Bull 18, Nightowl 18.

12th Man Squad Photo Raffle 2010/11

As happened last year, the club has offered a place in a squad picture for a fan, for the 12th Man. Twelve months ago we auctioned this opportunity and it raised £620.00 when Colt Simmonds won the opportunity to be photographed with the team.

This season, the person who wins this honour will attend the photocall on July 27 when the official squad photos are taken, meet the players, and a special squad picture will be taken including him or her, which will be displayed in the programme and on the club website.

A bit of an email debate has been held among the 12th Man contact group today about the best and fairest way to give everyone a chance to win this prize while raising funds for the 12th Man, and the conclusion is to raffle rather than hold an auction.

So tomorrow at the Open Day we'll be selling tickets at the OxVox stall for £1 each.

Also we are looking at ways of getting more tickets into people's hands before July 20 when it will be drawn. Unfortunately we don't have a home friendly before then so we'll have to be creative.

We'll set up something online next week, hopefully, we have to take care about prohibitions on raffle ticket selling e.g. on eBay and PayPal.

The 12th Man Fund today helped Oxford United make a major signing ahead of the new season with defender Jake Wright joining on a three year deal.

Jake had a wonderful spell at the club last season which culminated in his excellent performance during our play-off final win at Wembley. He arrives on a free transfer and Chairman Kelvin Thomas was delighted to welcome Jake to the club, he said:

“I think signing Jake is a fantastic deal for this football club. Jake was a major part of our Wembley success. He has experience at a higher level and I know he is very excited about coming to Oxford. It is also pleasing that the 12th Man was able to help to push this deal over the line and help Jake to relocate to the Oxfordshire area.”

Our latest 12th Man signing said: “I’m delighted to have signed. From the moment I arrived on loan I have been made to feel at home. The Manager and staff are first class and the lads have been great with me. We have a great team spirit and a great belief and I want to be part of that. The fans at Wembley were brilliant and this is where I want to play my football.”

Robert Newton added “Jake's signing is a great step forward for the club. His arrival will be hugely popular with the fans and the 12th Man is delighted to have played a part in funding it. Once again, thanks to every fan who has contributed to the fund or got involved. We hope the fund will continue to grow this year and will play its part in signing players of this calibre."

12th Man are delighted with the signing and thank every single one of our supporters for contributing over £30,000 in the last twelve months.

Game of 66 World Cup Competition

How good are you at predicting the outcome of the World Cup?

Choose the teams you think will go through at each stage, and the eventual winners


This is a simple prediction game in which you select the teams you think will progress at each stage in the competition. At each stage you will get points for each correct choice. It’s not a very sophisticated game, you can even make inconsistent predictions, but you can only name the correct number of choices at each stage and you will only get points for correct predictions, naturally. Half the takings will go to the 12th Man Fund. A single winner will receive the other half (see below) unless there is a tie even after the tie break question in which case the prize will be divided equally. Please enter – the more the merrier. Entries will be accepted up to and including the closing date of 16 June, by which time all teams will have played the first of their group matches.

You can enter by post (£4) or online (£4.50). Full details are given http://www.oxvox.org.uk/news.aspx?id=183

With apologies for how long it's taken us to put up this report of the 12th Man planning meeting last month, and the length of it...


A planning meeting to discuss the 12th Man initiative for next season was held on Monday 19 April at the Priory pub. Kelvin Thomas and David Jackson from Oxford United were there, and there were a total of approximately 30 supporters in attendance.

A review of the success of the fund during the 2009-10 season was given. Over £28,000 had been raised since the fund was established in July 2009, against a year one target of £10,000. This represented about £5 for each person in the average crowd. Five players had been brought to the club, and the activity had attracted widespread support evidenced by the many thousands of badges and wristbands sold to individual fans. A remarkable range of activities had been run and many people and organisations had been involved in raising the phenomenal total.

A signed agreement on the operation of the fund had been completed in September 2009; from the club’s perspective and the perspective of those involved in the operation of the fund this had worked well. The three-person committee of Rob Newton, Neil Carter and Kelvin Thomas had operated successfully and effectively in making payments against sight of club invoices. This had been achieved without any significant loss of confidentiality for the club, and the club confirmed that it was happy with the arrangements.

Looking to the future the main aspects examined were

• Co-ordination - roles and responsibilities, and money management
• Purpose/direction of funding next season
• Club’s perspective and involvement
• Ideas for next season
• Getting more people involved

Under the first topic, we asked

• Does it need an organising group – if so, how should it be set up?

This was discussed in some detail and there was broad though not universal agreement. The prevailing majority view was that a formal committee structure would not be generally welcomed and would risk losing some of the essential spontaneity of the activity. However there were clearly occasions when appeal to a group for opinions on activities, or a co-ordinated approach to providing individuals with practical help and input with their projects for 12th Man would be welcome. The trick was to find a way to provide the necessary support without introducing a bureaucratic approach.

The specific decision taken at the meeting was to develop and strengthen the existing email group to which attendees of the meeting, and indeed anyone with a strong interest in the group could belong. This might develop into a yahoo group or similar to enable members to stay in touch on a regular basis. The email group could help in the areas mentioned.

It was confirmed in response to questions that OxVox in its committee meetings did not routinely discuss 12th Man matters in general, any discussion would be confined to projects it was undertaking itself for the fund and would be recorded in its meeting notes in the usual way.

The meeting was also asked:

• Does it need any changes to financial management – if so, what?

12th Man money went into a dedicated bank account administered by Neil Carter. The balance in the account and the running total raised was reported regularly on websites.

Two points were identified in discussion:

1) the need for transparency, in terms of amounts raised by different activities

and

2) the heavy workload, and Neil’s need for help, at least from time to time.

These matters would be further discussed outside the meeting.

The meeting also discussed how activities which required up-front payments would be funded. Some activities had been funded by individuals making loans for repayment, or even in some cases donations. However this might not always be possible, and there was a discussion of the idea of retaining a percentage of ‘seedcorn’ amounts in the fund, to enable projects with initial financial commitments to be funded by short term loans. This proved to be a contentious issue with differing views emerging; it was not fully resolved in the meeting, and will require further discussion.

The idea was floated that money in the 12th Man fund could occasionally be used for other purposes than team building e.g. capital items like a ‘ We are the 12th Man’ sign at the Oxford Mail end. There were mixed views on this particular idea among those at the meeting, but more generally it was recognised that there might be occasions when modest sums could be allocated in this way, if there were wide agreement among everyone involved that the purpose was one which helped promote the 12th Man.

The next two topics covered the operation of the fund and the purpose of the funding for next season:

• Do you have comments, issues or concerns about the way it has operated?
• Should it continue as a fund for playing budget expansion, or do you think there is a case for a change of purpose?

No substantial concerns were expressed about the operation of the fund.

The idea was floated of diverting funds raised by 12th Man to a different purpose, the specific idea suggested being the funding of a reserve side, which the club had indicated they were considering re-establishing. However, Kelvin Thomas confirmed that this would not be the club’s preference; if they decided to run a reserve side, it would be funded by the club.

It was agreed after discussion that continuing, as now, to use the 12th Man fund to expand the playing budget was the general preference, and this would therefore be the target for 2010-11.

• *Club’s perspective and involvement

Kelvin and David contributed to the discussion throughout. The club saw its role as a full partner in the activity and was delighted at its success. It would continue next season to provide ‘unique’ items for sale as this season e.g. the squad picture, training ground trips etc.

• Ideas for next season
• Getting more people involved

The final part of the meeting concerned ideas for next season, and how to extend further the number of people helping and running activities.

Pauline Chantler spoke about a possible late summer weekend of events which would include food and entertainment marquee-style. At this stage the idea was in its infancy but could be discussed further; if a successful event were held it could make substantial sums for the 12th Man, as well as giving everyone a memorable time.

A number of new ideas were floated briefly. It was recognised that year 2 of the 12th Man might pose new challenges as the novelty may wear off – some of this year’s activities could be repeated or developed further, while some would be a one-off. As the evening was getting late (and the temperature in the outdoor marquee was getting chilly!) it was agreed that many of the discussions would be held outside the meeting in person or by email.

Everyone attending was thanked for attending what had been a useful meeting.

We are all recovering from Sunday and the return to the Football League!!

A fantastic day and the celebrations yesterday along the open top bus route and in Broad Street were a memory to treasure.

Money is still coming in to 12th Man from recent events and fundraisers.

But, fairly soon when we catch our breath, we'll update the total in the fund and produce an itemised list what's been generated by each activity this season, so that everyone's aware of where we stand.

Meanwhile, the U-Man Wembley song 'Yellow Ribbon' is proving a popular download and you can get it from this address:

http://www.oxfordunited.org/uman/index.html

Chris Wilder Face Mask Update

The remaining Chris Wilder Face Masks which took the Play-Off semi finals by storm, will be on sale at The Green Man Pub, Dagmar Avenue, Wembley on Sunday afternoon.

Priced at £3 or two for £5, they will be the only official 12th Man items on sale this weekend. The Green Man Pub will be having other traders selling Oxford United related merchandise but you'll be able to see a handful of supporters selling the masks to our own supporters.

We thank the Landlord of the Green Man for allowing us the opportunity to use his premises to sell the masks this weekend. See you there, limited stock remains.

U-Man releases "Yellow Ribbon 2010"

Oxford United supporter and music producer, U-Man, today launched his 2010 mix of Yellow Ribbon, to accompany United's trip to Wembley this weekend, May 16th. The venture will benefit the 12th Man Initiative, with all sale proceeds going directly to the fund.

U-Man has become very recognised amongst Oxford United supporters with his previous songs attracting interest from a wide selection of fans. U-Man has been delighted to oblige with a new up-to-date remix of our Wembley anthem, Yellow Ribbon. The song has the added benefit of a selection of supporters singing in the chorus, to add to the unique style which is associated with U-Man.

We expect this to become a big hit in the coming weeks. Listen to the local media who will no doubt, play the tune on the local Oxfordshire airwaves.

Donations are invited when downloading the song and we suggest you hit the following link to get your download - http://www.oxfordunited.org/uman/index.html

12th Man "Wembley Mascot" experience

Oxford United has kindly donated the opportunity to be the club's official mascot at Wembley to the 12th Man. We request interested individuals email the 12th Man in order to be entered into a draw. The winner will be required to pay £50 for the experience as per the normal cost of the 12th Man Flag Bearer packages. You will bid for the chance to lead the United players out on to the pitch for the Conference Play-off final. The winner must chose a person under 16-years-old to lead the players out on to the pitch (as Wembley will only allow children to be mascots).

The mascot will be allowed to be accompanied by one adult (the adult will wait in the dug outs while the mascot goes on the pitch) and will meet the Oxford players in the dressing room before kick-off and then lead the team out on to the pitch. No tickets are included in the package so the winner must have match tickets and will be led to their seats by stewards when they return to the tunnel area.

The Day after.......

Over 11,000 "12th Men" witnessed Oxford United progress to the Conference Play-Off Final yesterday where we will face the Minstermen of York.

The atmosphere created over both Semi-Finals were excellent and must have helped contribute to the team in reaching the showpiece final.

12th Man will have a short moment of reflection as we consider what we can do to benefit the initiative over the coming 10 days. Watch this space!

Good Luck to Oxford United

It doesn't need saying really but Good Luck and Best Wishes to the staff, players and management of Oxford United in tomorrow afternoon's Play-Off Semi-Final Second Leg against Rushden & Diamonds.

The 12th Man will be there in FORCE, 11,000 of us. Come on You Yellows!!

12th Man wild about Wilder Masks

The 12th Man today launched the Chris Wilder Facemask which will be available at both Play-Off Semi Final games against Rushden & Diamonds. The project has been made possible by our sponsor Dunn Car Sales Ltd of Hollow Way, Cowley, Oxford who have helped get the latest project off and flying. Massive thanks to Dunn Car Sales and their team.

Priced at £3 each or 2 for £5, the masks will add to the red-hot atmosphere that United fans will generate both tomorrow evening and during the second leg on Monday 3rd May.

The local media have picked up on this fun project and the Oxford Mail ran a story today which had quotes from myself and Chris Wilder.

http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/sport/8123263.Oxford_United_fans_wild_about_Wilder_masks_/?ref=mr

Radio Oxford's Malcolm Boyden 'requested' two masks were delivered to his studios in Summertown during his Breakfast Show this morning. The 12th Man didn't disappoint and sent two masks for the guys to use during the programme and at the home game next week.

It's all about fun, enjoyment and perhaps.....recapturing our youth!

Andy Hill runs for the 12th Man this weekend

The London Marathon is on Sunday and there is still time to sponsor OxVox Trust member Andy Hill as he raises money for the 12th Man.

So far £500 has been received in online and other donations, including the £150 raised by Raging Fever in memory of Andy's brother Dominic who sadly passed away recently.

You can make a donation using the Paypal button on the OxVox website www.oxvox.org.uk

Or you can send a cheque payable to ‘The 12th Man’ to OxVox at 18 Harvest Way, Witney, Oxon OX28 1EG, indicating that your donation is prompted by Andy’s run.

Please note that anyone donating £20 or more will receive a free membership of OxVox until 30 September 2011.

We all wish Andy well as he enters the final stages of preparation. Andy will carry the 12th Man flag at intervals on the course, so look out for him if you are going to London on Sunday to see the race.

12th Man Meeting, Monday 19th April, 7.30pm, The Priory, OX4

A planning meeting to discuss the 12th Man Fund for next season will be held in the Priory pub, by kind agreement of Tim Rackley the landlord, on Monday 19 April starting at 7.30pm

This not an OxVox meeting and is being organised together with other fans’ groups including the Ultimate Yellows, GE, and Rage Online.

The meeting is open to all United fans but will particularly interest you if you would like to be directly involved with the Fund going forward, and have ideas and skills you would like to bring to the activity.

All aspects of the Fund will be discussed and Oxford United have been invited and are expected to attend

Scott completes his bike ride

Scott Humphries has completed his sponsored bike ride for the 12th Man from Hayes and Yeading to the Kassam Stadium over the Easter weekend. Scott is tired but very pleased to have finished the ride and achieved something for the fund.

There are chances to make donations today and Scott will be at the Priory before the match and it's planned that he will make an appearance at the ground, also he will be collecting cash after the match around the ticket office area.

Online donations can still be made at

http://www.oxvox.org.uk/news.aspx?id=161

Scott is pictured at Hayes with OUFC Chairman Kelvin Thomas and James Constable.

Here he is on his return to the stadium:

Collection for Dominic Hill

£150 has been collected for 12th Man in memory of Dominic Hill, a lifelong United fan who played for the Raging Fever fans' team.

We are very appreciative of Hayes and Yeading fans as well as United fans contributing to this collection to commemorate a fan who will be sorely missed.

John Matthews of Raging Fever has written as follows:

Dear Trevor,

Re: Collection for Dominic Hill

Raging Fever played Hayes & Yeading fans yesterday before the main match. Prior to our game we held a minute’s applause for Dominic Hill who sadly passed away last week. Dom was a lifelong fan of Oxford who played for Raging Fever on a number of occasions. He lived in Sheffield and so most of his appearances for us were on away trips in that area. His last game for us was in October at York where he featured in our largest win this year.

You will know Dominic’s brother Andy who is running the marathon on behalf of the 12^th Man fund.

After hearing the sad news, the Hayes fans asked whether they could contribute towards a fund of Andy’s choice. As a result, all of the match fees from both sides and some additional contributions from spectators were collected and we have £150 to put towards the 12^th Man in Dom’s memory. This is a wonderful gesture on the Hayes fans’ part and is in keeping with the ethos of what Raging Fever represents i.e. fans meeting up to enjoy football and assist each other where they can.

Scott Rides Out For The 12th Man

Oxford United fan Scott Humphries is the latest to come forward with a 12th Man fundraiser. He is 15 years old and he has set himself the challenge of a sponsored cycle ride over the Easter weekend to raise money for the first team squad.
Most fans will get in their cars or on the coach and travel back home after the match at Hayes on Good Friday. Not Scott - after cheering on the Us on at Hayes, he will get on his bike and set out for the Kassam Stadium in Oxford, over 60 miles away!

Scott says: “I will be cycling, wearing Oxford United kit, on mainly minor roads on a carefully planned route. I will spread the journey back to Oxford over the days of the holiday weekend, shadowed and supported by my family in a car. When I was thinking about what sort of organisation to do this for, I thought of the 12th Man straight away. I thought of Hayes to Oxford because of the weekend games, and I hope to finish just before the home game against Salisbury. I hope it will help the 12th man a little bit.”

We hope the timing will work out for Scott, so that the crowd at the Salisbury match on Easter Monday can welcome him as he arrives.

Scott is gathering his own sponsors, but he would very much like any United fan who wants to sponsor him to do so. OxVox will arrange a collection point for donations at the Kassam Stadium on Easter Monday, so look out for details. Also, online donations can be made by visiting the OxVox website at www.oxvox.org.uk and clicking on the donation button for Scott’s challenge on the front page of the site.

Trevor Lambert on behalf of the 12th Man said,“It’s great to see younger fans like Scott coming forward and helping the 12th Man fund. He’s taking on a significant challenge and fans will wish him well, and success in his fundraising. We’ll look forward to seeing him back on Easter Monday.”

United Chairman Kelvin Thomas added, "This is another great effort and we wish Scott the best of luck. It has been great to see so many fans, of all ages, getting behind the 12th Man Fund and we look forward to welcoming him back."

Marathon 12th Man.......whatever next?

Marathon 12th Man!

Oxford United fan and OxVox supporters’ trust member Andy Hill will be putting on his running shoes to raise money for the 12th Man Fund next month.

Andy has been fortunate enough to secure a coveted place in the Flora London marathon to be run on Sunday April 25th, just one day after the Us wind up their Conference league programme at Eastbourne Borough. Andy has run the Marathon several times and he is looking forward to the challenge. We will be following his progress in training and posting reports from time to time on the 12th Man blog and the OxVox website.

But fans can sponsor him now. You can make a donation by visiting the OxVox website www.oxvox.org.uk and clicking on the 12th Man Fund donation buttons. Or you can send a cheque payable to ‘The 12th Man’ to OxVox at 18 Harvest Way, Witney, Oxon OX28 1EG, indicating that your donation is prompted by Andy’s run. The OxVox site will carry updates of the total raised so far, and we trust Andy’s efforts will be well rewarded.

We are pleased to confirm that at Andy’s suggestion anyone who sponsors him for £20 or more will receive a free one year membership of OxVox.

Andy adds “I have been extremely fortunate to obtain an entry, in the official ballot, to run The Virgin London Marathon this year and am VERY proud to be able to use my run to raise funds for this excellent cause. The ballot for the race is always 3 or 4 times oversubscribed for the 35,000 places on offer so places are at a premium.

“I am a lifelong Oxford United supporter and watch the team home and away throughout the season. I also play for Raging Fever, the supporters’ team, who play opposition fans up and down the country on the morning of Oxford United matches, before cheering the team to victory in the afternoon!

“Whenever I run The London Marathon I wear an Oxford United shirt and always get support from Oxford United supporters as I pound the streets of the capital for 26.2 miles! Marathon running is very similar to the trails and tribulations of a football season, there are highs and lows, agony and ecstasy and the knowledge that you have a long hard slog ahead of you........but step by step you get nearer to the final prize.

“I hope that London based Oxford United supporters and people travelling back home after an overnight stay in Eastbourne will be kind enough to come along and offer vocal support. It is always a fun day out with bands playing outside pubs so come along and give me a cheer...............and afterwards everyone would be welcome to join me in for a celebratory beer in a pub somewhere not too far from the end of the course! Let’s hope that we are celebrating another successful occasion at the same time...............and that the 'P' word is no longer banned!”

Club Chairman Kelvin Thomas said: “We wish Andy the best of luck in the Marathon. It is another example of fans supporting the 12th Man Fund and we wish him success in his training and on the day.”

Oxford's 12th Man

We have had a difficult start to March but with "The 12th Man Initiative" having parted with £25,000 this season, it is time for the wonderful fans of Oxford United to continue to "roar" on our side over the next six weeks.

Chris Wilder and Kelvin Thomas will be more determined than ever to deliver success this season and the 12th Man will once again play its part, as it has done all season!

It is just getting exciting!

Come on You YELLOWS!

The 12th Man assisted Oxford United's transfer business once more today when they secured the services of Aldershot striker, John Grant.

Grant joins the U’s on loan until the end of the season with a view to the deal being made permanent in the summer. He becomes the fifth player to have been signed this season with the help of the 12th Man fund, following Jamie Cook, Onome Sodje, Anthony Tonkin and Ashley Cain.

John, born in Manchester, is a lethal striker whose scoring ratio for Aldershot is quite remarkable, having bagged 57 goals in 150 appearances. He signed as a pro for Crewe Alexandra in July 1999 and made his debut against Crystal Palace. He was later loaned to Hyde United, Rushden and Diamonds and Northwich Victoria before signing for Hereford United in June 2002.

He went on to play for Shewsbury Town in July 2004 but soon after made the move to Chris Wilder's Halifax Town. He was a regular in the Shay side's march up the Conference and scored in their defeat by (his former club) Hereford United in the 2006 Conference (National) Play-Off Final. He finished the 2005-06 season as the club's top scorer with 14 goals.

In July 2006, he made the move to Aldershot Town and scored twice on his debut. The season ended with John being top scorer (23 goals) and voted 'Player of the Year'. He also made his England 'C' debut against the Republic of Ireland in May 2007 and was in the squad that won that year's Four Nations Tournament. In February 2008, he committed himself to Aldershot on a contract until the end of the 2009-10 season.

He ended the 2007-08 season as top-scorer (25 goals) as the Shots won the Setanta Shield and were crowned Blue Square Premier champions. Subsequently, Grant was named in the Blue Square Premier 'Team of the Year'.

Speaking on behalf of 12th Man, Simon Bradbury said "We are delighted that the 12th Man has been able to make a further contribution to Oxford United's Promotion Push, with the capture of a prolific striker such as John.

The 12th Man has been a phenomenal success this season and goes from strength to strength. The fans deserve huge credit for raising over £25,000 so far, and we hope this latest signing will excite everyone who has generously donated to the fund. To sign quality players like Tonkin, Cook and Grant is down to the hard work of Kelvin Thomas, Chris Wilder and every supporters.

We wish John every success for the remainder of the season, one which we hope will see us return to the Football League"

Ashley Cain is the latest 12th Man signing

Oxford United's 12th Man once again made its mark today when it contributed to the short-term emergency loan signing of Coventry City winger, Ashley Cain.

The 19 year old has immense speed and can play on either flank. Whilst only making a handful of senior appearances for the Sky Blues he is a product of the Coventry City Youth set-up. He joins in time to face Kidderminster Harriers in the FA Trophy Quarter-Final and will play a part in a hectic League programme.

Chairman Kelvin Thomas said: “Once again the 12th Man has come to the clubs help. At this stage of the season we have to make sure that we have enough quality players at the club to get us through a probable 20 games in nine weeks. Having the 12th Man Fund has given us the ability to do that, so well done to the fans once again!”

January Transfer Window Update - Thursday 28th January

With the January Transfer Window coming to a close, the "12th Man Fund" continues to grow. As of Thursday 28th January the supporters of Oxford United have raised £25,574.00 with money still streaming in.

The fund has contributed to three Oxford United signings this season, supporting the transfers and loan signings of Anthony Tonkin, Jamie Cook and Onome Sodje. To date, the 12th Man Fund has passed over £18,142.00 to the club, leaving a balance of £7,432.00.

With NEW and FRESH 12th Man projects in the pipeline, make sure you keep an eye out for details in the Local Press, Websites and Internet Forums.

The 12th Man Fund is ready to support Chris Wilder and Oxford United when the call is made.

The 12th Man Fund Latest News - Monday 11 January 2010

The amount raised by the 12th Man Fund has now risen to a remarkable total of £24,800as of Friday 8 January 2010.

The accompanying 'thermometer' shows that, with the payments already made, £6,658 now remains in the Fund and the amount which has been paid to the football club is £18,142. This is made up of £5,000 for the transfer fee for Jamie Cook in his move from Crawley, £3,142 towards the cost of the loan spell of Onome Sodje from Barnsley, and a payment of £10,000 made today, 11 January, to support the acquisition of Anthony Tonkin from Cambridge United.

Thank you all for your ongoing support.

3rd Signing arrives - Anthony Tonkin

Anthony Tonkin today became the third player to be signed with financial support from the 12th Man scheme, following his capture from our BSP rivals Cambridge United. This signing is made at a crucial stage of the season. He is an experienced, talented player who we sure will do well for the club. The fund is expected to contribute a significant amount.

Anthony is described by Cambridge United as an elegant, attacking left-back who is a former England C international. He has played for Yeovil, Stockport, Crewe, Grays Athletic and Forest Green during his career, having signed for Cambridge in the summer of 2008. His transfer from Stockport County to Crewe was for a fee of £150,000.00. Only this weekend he has been regarded as one of the best left-backs in Non-League by the Non League Paper.

The 12th Man Group which includes a cross section of Oxford United fans' organisations are very pleased that the fund has been instrumental in securing Anthony's transfer, and we look forward to seeing him for the Us in weeks and months ahead as we all aim for a successful conclusion to the 2009-2010 season.

Chris Davis, a spokesman for the 12th Man said:

“We'd like to thank all the supporters who have contributed £25,000 to the fund since its inception, a sum massively in advance of what was originally envisaged by the organisers. Anthony’s purchase is now the third squad addition the supporters have helped to fund.

“The 12th Man will continue to grow over the coming months and we encourage fans to continue to raise funds so we can aid the club to sign players of a similar calibre in the future.”

All fans will welcome Anthony and wish him every success in his time at Oxford United.

The 12th Man - How it works

The 12th Man Initiative was set up at the start of August 2009 and is run by a collective of supporters, not attributed to one group or organisation.

During the last six months, Oxford United Supporters have spent remarkable time and effort in building a fund to help Chris Wilder and Oxford United strengthen the first team squad. The initial target was only to raise £10,000 over the course of the season to help supplement the playing budget.

It is with great pride that as of 1 January 2010 the fund has raised over £24,000 in five months. £5000 secured the signing of Jamie Cook and a further payment of £3142 was paid last week, as a contribution to the cost of Onome Sodje's loan.

Unfortunately for both Oxford United and Onome, lack of games prevented the fans from seeing more match time and possibly goals from our loan signing. However, his goal at Salisbury may yet yield a significant point in our quest to win promotion.

With two transactions having been made, the fund currently stands at circa £16,760.00with further deposits due to be made. This is a truly remarkable effort from all our supporters.

It is important to try and explain how the fund works once the fund-raising and donations have been made. A brief explanation is below.


The Process

The process works by the Club Chairman (Kelvin Thomas) applying to the Fund Management Committee, for either a Transfer Fee, Player Wages, a Loan Fee or Loan Wages. The three-man Fund Management Committee is made up of two supporters (currently Rob Newton and Neil Carter, The OxVox Treasurer) and Mr Thomas, where the amount is discussed and approved (the fund is used to supplement, not replace, the managers budget). Payment is then made to the Football Club with receipts being required.


A Contract of Understanding between OxVox, Oxford United Supporters and Oxford United Football Club was signed before the 12th Man Initiative was launched. We will be putting this document in the public domain in the very near future so that everyone can see the thorough terms and conditions which must be adhered to at all times. It will be available to view at the numerous supporting websites which include RageOnline, OxVox, the official 12th Man Blogspot (link below) and OxKits. Any other supporter group who would like to publish the details on the website just need to get in touch with the 12th Man at twelfthman@oxvox.org.uk

We have now are entered the January 2010 Transfer Window and the 12th Man Fund is ready to support Oxford United Football Club, Kelvin Thomas and Chris Wilder at this important stage of the season.

The Future

Within the near future, we will be hosting a 12th Man meeting for supporters who would like to remain part of or join the fund-raising and planning of future 12th Man events in 2010. We will announce details on the websites and forums when we have organised a date.