Hibs promise to reward supporters who refuse refunds with ‘unique’ fan experiences as club reflects on decision to conclude season

Hibs fans are being asked to forego refunds in return for 'unique' fan experiences. (Photo by Rob Casey / SNS Group)

Hibs have asked short-changed fans to consider waiving refunds with a promise of making it up to them once football resumes in a statement reflecting on the decision to conclude the Premiership season.

The agreement to end the campaign on a points-per-game basis, which resulted in Hibs dropping from sixth to seventh in the final standings, means that Easter Road season ticket holders missed out on four remaining home fixtures.

The club has said it will reimburse any supporters who wish to pursue refunds, however, those who allow the club to keep the money will be rewarded with “unique” fan experiences in the coming months.

Reflecting on the decision to call the season, Hibs stated: "At this time of coronavirus-driven crisis, it brings some certainty and clarity to an otherwise extraordinary situation.

"Since football was shut down by Government and our sport’s governing bodies in mid-March, Hibernian fans have been magnificent in the support they have shown. Our fans continue to amaze and humble us.

"The season ending prematurely means supporters have seen four home matches fewer than they should have. Some fans have generously indicated they would not be seeking a refund, recognising that financing refunds when your club has had no income for several months will compound the scale of the economic pressure we face.

"We want to be honest – if you are able to take this course then please do. We will make it up to you, and we are looking at creating unique experiences of real value to fans – such as invitations to attend a special series of open training sessions with Jack and the first team. For all who can and do take this course, our gratitude and sincere thanks are due yet again.

"However, we also know some people face real challenges. The club will deal fairly with all supporters. Those fans wishing to have the unused portion of their ticket refunded should email us at [email protected] with their season ticket client reference number(s) before 5pm on May 29th.

"Supporters who email us by this deadline will be refunded for the four games lost against the value they paid for their season ticket. Supporters who purchased last year via credit or debit card, will be refunded directly on to their card.

"Those who purchased by other means, or if your card is no longer valid, will need to be refunded manually. We ask for your patience. Please make sure your contact information is fully up to date on your account."

Hibs have sold over 7000 season ticket for next season, despite ongoing uncertainty over when crowds will be able to return to Easter Road.

"The form next season can take will not be clear for some weeks yet," the club added. "We do not know when we will be able to play matches or when we can open our doors to supporters, but we do know football will return.

"Because of the uncertainty we took the decision to extend our 2020-21 Season Ticket Early Bird deadline by a month until Thursday, June 4th at 5pm – which will coincide with the seat release date. The club will continue to monitor and keep the situation under review.

"The finance option will continue to be available to supporters, over a ten-month instalment plan with the club meeting the interest costs.

"To every member of the Hibernian family we say thank you again. Be safe, please follow the advice to keep yourselves and your families healthy until we can all enjoy meeting at Easter Road again."