During the international break, Ipswich.co.uk columnist and lifelong Town fan Barbara Spencer, AKA the West Stand Senior, decided to take a stadium tour to fill the weekend void. Here's what she wrote.
Portman Road has been the home ground of Ipswich Town Football Club since 1878. Ipswich Borough Council owns the land, while the club owns the stadium.
Town turned professional in 1936 under Mick O'Brien's management and won the Southern League Championship in their first year. I counted 19 managers in total—a stark contrast to some current Premier League teams, who seem to have that many within a couple of seasons.
Fun fact: England beat Croatia at Portman Road in 2003.
The tour
I won't reveal everything about the tour; hopefully, more supporters will want to experience it themselves. It's excellently organised and delivered by a knowledgeable and engaging tour guide and colleagues.
The upgrades
At the start of the summer break, 111 projects were carried out on the ground. Some work had already been planned, but some were necessary to meet Premier League requirements.
This 'upgrading' work is still being carried out even on Sundays, and amazing progress has already been made. One noticeable change for the season ahead will be the installation of 47 cameras instead of the original seven and the addition of close to 3,000 seats for away supporters.
The away dressing room
The decor along all corridors is becoming dynamic and effective. They've requested a shirt swap with all other Premier League Clubs to hang in the away team dressing room. The shower room for away teams is impressive and has already received compliments.
The home dressing room
Entering the home team's blue LED-lit dressing room was dramatic—a real "wow" moment.
The room positively glows. Players' names appear above individual lockers where their shirts hang; another kit is stowed.
'RUNNING TOWARDS ADVERSITY' is written large above their names, relating to the club's ethos and new American investors.
Tunnel and pitch
Walking down the tunnel towards the pitch was thrilling, especially with the match-day music playing. The pitch, a 'hybrid stitch' variety, looked beautiful but off-limits.
The dugout
This season, the dugout seating has been increased to accommodate all staff and squad members, promoting unity and inclusion.
From there, we saw the hospitality lounge and box, where VIPs watch from the best vantage point.
The trophy room, press lounge and media room
The trophy room is fascinating, filled with cups, medals, and mementoes. The press lounge provides a comfortable space for media members, while the impressive media room resembles a small cinema with tiered seating and advanced technology.
The final verdict
The tour reminded me of my younger days, chatting with Ipswich players at a local pub. The current team seems to have a similar great spirit.
Portman Road is becoming a stunning stadium, worthy of standing alongside others in the league.
I'm sure the same will be true of the team that calls it home.
