Artist’s impression of the proposed new
stadium (Zaha Hadid Architects)There was never a set decision to take the club green as such, he adds – but he also saw no reason why his
new project shouldn’t adhere to his lifelong belief in being low impact.
Today, nine years on, the club is financially stable, established in League Two following promotion in 2017,
and is currently applying to build a new stadium – a sweepingly beautiful design by Zaha Hadid, made all
from wood and surrounded (but of course) by trees.
Players and coaching staff have bought into Vince’s revolution pretty much from day one. They talk about
feeling more energised because of their diet; of suffering less soft tissue injuries; of recovering quicker
between games. “This is the way football is going,” manager Mark Cooper tells me. “Top players like Sergio
Aguero have gone vegan to stay sharper longer, and more will do it. We’re just ahead of the curve.”
The UN has now asked the club to lead its new Sport For Climate Action initiative, an international project
which will see professional and amateur clubs across the world encouraged – and offered practical help – to
reduce their carbon footprint
The eco-identity, meanwhile, has created an overseas fan base among supporters who share the philosophy.
This season’s new kit has sold in 16 different countries – unheard of for a club at this level. Last season,
media from Russia, Japan, the US and Germany were all in the press box at some point.
“You’re aware when you come here you have to buy into the principles and be willing to be educated” says
defender Matt Mills. “And that breeds success. You’re constantly striving to improve because you’re part of
a project that is so ambitious.”
So ambitious, indeed, that the UN has now asked the club to lead its new Sport For Climate Action
initiative, an international project which will see professional and amateur clubs across the world
encouraged – and offered practical help – to reduce their carbon footprint. Many of the ideas shared will be
taken directly from Rovers.