Reaction

25/6/00
Since the launch of the new Albion logo a few weeks back it has been interesting listening and studying supporters reactions to the new style badge which replaced the old crest style one featuring Annfield House. The new badge featuring The Wallace Monument on top of the Abbey Craig in the middle of a new round style has provided one of the close-season's major talking points. But with many arguments and debates going on about the new logo it is now  becoming evident that the new style has been warmly received.

When the badge was launched a few weeks back on this web site and in the Stirling Observer it was the first many fans new about the change of badge and some quarters have questioned the club's lack of consultation with the supporters about its design and what the fans may like to see in the badge. But with time running out during the close season a decision had to be taken quickly so the design could be put on the new strips and merchandise. If fans were to be given an opportunity to put forward a design, is there any proof that the fans  would have agreed between them of a design.

It is always hard for a club like Stirling Albion who have moved onto a new home to no longer recognise a famous part of the club's history as Annfield House was. But with many new supporters coming on board since the passing of Annfield in the early 1990's, the club have got to look forward and move with the times.

Another point brought up was the content of the badge and the shape, with many favouring the old style crest and perhaps the Castle as a better symbol for Stirling. So with many fans all eager to have their say on the new badge, some publications decided to run independent polls on whether Albion fans favoured the new badge or not. 

It was always going to be hard to predict what the outcome would be. Would fans be in favour of the badge or not?. If listening to the people that spoke out on the badge you would think that the latter would win the day.

Results have been eagerly anticipated and many fans have casted their votes in these polls and it now appears that the new badge has won the day. The polls are showing that most supporters are in favour of the new badge.

The spirit of William Wallace overlooking Forthbank Stadium is now a part of  Stirling Albion. And in the words of the designer of the new badge "it is a reminder of true fighting spirit, and of glorious achievement".

In the end whether you like it or dislike it, it is these words that we all wish we see from Stirling Albion next season and lets all show that "true fighting spirit", which will lead is onto "glorious achievement", with promotion to Division One this season with the new club crest proudly displayed on our chests.

Club Release

Stirling Albion Football Club are proud to unveil their new club logo which features the Wallace Monument on top of the towering Abbey Craig. The Club see this change of image as a step forward into the future as the club strives to gather a better public image in and around the surrounding area of Stirling. 

Stirling Albion Football Club in conjunction with Stirling Council has been developing a range of corporate, commercial and community initiatives for the benefit of the supporters and the club. As a starting point the club has decided to introduce a new logo to reflect a new identity and way forward for the club.

The design was one of many images drawn up by Bruce Design Ltd in Stirling, who have had a great working relationship with the club over the years and Owner Bill Bruce explains his design. "Changing the football club's emblem is a profound step. It clearly demonstrates that the club has stood back and looked back at what it is, where it came from and is now looking to where it wants to be. 

"It should be noted that a change of identity will not succeed by itself in meeting the marketing objectives of Stirling Albion Football Club. It can only underline and support a strategy to change perceptions of the club and revitalise interest in it, from whatever source.

"In respect of the current image, I don't think there is any point in debating the potential to bring it up to date as it focuses to much on the club's previous location. Traditionalists may be fearful of a change of image but their views should be countered by a demonstration of the club's healthy attitude towards the need for change - in the way it presents itself and in its activities - on and off the park.

"The Wallace Monument - which spectates over the current ground - Forthbank Stadium, is a reminder of true fighting spirit, and of glorious achievement".

The Wallace Monument viewed from Forthbank Stadium

The introduction of a new club emblem and other activities off the field such as the new supporters Associates Club is only part of a jigsaw that the club hope to unveil this season off the field, which will lead to a greater feeling between supporters which will in-turn provide more support to the players and management on the field.

Here at the Official Web Site, some of us are strict traditionalists and crave for the old Annfield. But all that is in the past, the good times and the bad times, the great memories of the place. So we must look forward, the introduction of a new emblem is not meant to put  the past in the shade, Annfield and all that is associated with it will always be in our hearts and minds, but we have got to change with the times and look forward to the future. It is hoped the new emblem will give us hope and spirit to all get together and help Stirling Albion succeed in the future.

Comments are welcome on the new design, so let us here your opinion by emailing us at website@stirlingalbionfc.co.uk