The first event run by the newly formed Blues Supporters Club took place at the 3 store, Blackfriars in the city tonight, and it was a great success all round.

Firstly, BSC chairman Owen Tubbritt took to the rostrum to give a little background to the changeover from the IBSC to the new entity, and to get proceedings underway.

As Waterford United’s main sponsors, 3 then announced their new affinity deal for Blues supporters. 3 store manager Marianne explained how those signing up for 12 months will get 25% off their monthly rental, plus further free add-ons depending on the tariff selected, and also, of course, that coveted limited edition polo shirt!

Under 20 assistant manager Alan Barry gave a brief speech on the season just gone (manager Paul O’Brien is this week doing his UEFA ‘A’ licence in Dublin), before awarding the Player of the Year award deservedly to Andrew Power.

Blues Chairman John O’Sullivan was next up, with a few rousing words about the direction the club is to take into the coming seasons, and then it was Stephen Henderson’s turn to give his thoughts on the year just gone, and that yet to come. The floor was then opened up to questions, which the gaffer answered with his customary frankness, and no little optimism for the campaign ahead. Those in attendance must be quite pleased with his intention to retain as much of last year’s team as possible, strengthen with 3 or 4 new signings, and have a right go at all comers next year, whether it be Shels, Bray, Derry, Cork or whoever!

The BSC were very quick off the mark getting membership forms for 2010 distributed amongst the attending fans, and more forms will be available from all the usual sources throughout the close season. You can also download and print out a form here.

Some photos from the evening are to be found below:

Alan Barry presents the U20 Player of the Year award to Andrew Power

Stephen Henderson receives a VIP phone from 3 store manager Marianne...

...and a special early wedding present from Owen Tubbritt of the BSC

Owen Tubbritt and David Burke with the new Supporters Club membership forms

Jack Pheasey signs up to the new BSC