Rarely do you come across a tour that provides interest, history, personal touches from key people at the club and the chance to walk down a tunnel that sparkles with blue LED lights!
We’ve had the pleasure and luck to experience many football stadium tours but ITFC really have thought of what is important to supporters and the local community.
Starting from the Hall of Fame a warm welcome awaits along with a drink and a few minutes to take in the atmosphere of the hospitality area. Moving to the first stop the new memorial garden you are instantly reminded that: ‘Once a Blue always a Blue’.
A plethora of memorabilia from club legends is on show. Players, managers and directors achievements are all recognised and celebrated. You can walk in the footsteps of ITFC heroes, and check out the Player's tunnel, Team dressing room, Directors' Box, Boardroom, Media Suite and so much more.
Everything around the ground embodies the positivity and togetherness created as part of a huge partnership between owners, leaders, the manager, the kit sponsor, staff and supporters.
The club's mantra of “Running Towards Adversity” instilled by Jason Schechterle (the ultimate majority shareholder of the club) is clearly visible and a large part of this. The inspirational public speaker, a former police officer in Arizona was severely burnt in a tragic car accident.
Tour guides Simon and Noah were both knowledgeable — clearly passionate about the club and the fans as well as knowing the players and team well enough to share some secrets about friendships, team psychology and preferences.
Happy to take photos for groups, answer questions and accommodate those with mobility issues to ensure they didn’t miss out on anything offered to everyone, these two made the hour and a half whizz by in a flash.
You even get played out of the ground by Ed Sheeran — a lifelong fan, box holder and kit sponsor.
So when new dates are offered, I’d encourage any supporter to sign up. We have deliberately not included some of the treats that await you so the surprises keep coming as you move around the home of the super blues! Enjoy!
For any questions please get in touch with the events team on 01473 400580 or email events@itfc.co.uk