The Pompey Business Hub, powered by Network My Club, delivered again.
Another sold-out event in the Victory Suite at Fratton Park.
Another full room of directors and business owners from across Portsmouth and the surrounding areas.
👇 Here are the highlights, with event photos here 📸.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Life on the Pitch
Following a delicious curry lunch, guests were treated to a Q&A with Dan Mellor, Head Groundsperson at Portsmouth Football Club.
Dan gave a fascinating insight into what the role actually involves at a professional football club. It was far more than most in the room expected.
He explained the science behind pitch management and how it directly impacts performance on the pitch. From reducing injury risk for players, to how the playing surface influences the quality of the game itself.
Dan also talked through how technology in groundskeeping continues to evolve rapidly, and what that means for how clubs like Portsmouth maintain and improve their pitches.
The headline news: Fratton Park’s pitch is set for a complete overhaul in the coming off-season.
A new sand-based surface will be installed, reducing the risk of postponements Pompey have experienced this season. Something Dan admitted caused him no small amount of worry!
It was a rare glimpse behind the curtain of a professional football club. And a reminder of just how much expertise goes into keeping the club operating at a high level.
Making Tax Digital and the Sage Story
After Dan’s Q&A, Phil Hobden from event sponsors Sage took to the floor.
Phil talked through how Sage has evolved as a business and the services they offer to SMEs today.
He also gave a timely overview of the upcoming Making Tax Digital legislation changes and what businesses need to be doing now to prepare.
Phil also highlighted Sage’s official partnership with the EFL, adding another layer of relevance for the room at Fratton Park.
To learn more about Sage and how they can support your business, visit sage.com. Or connect with Phil on LinkedIn here.
Sage Offer For NMC Members
Phil also extended an offer for Network My Club members to receive 1 Year of Sage Business Cloud for FREE.
To claim the offer, contact Phil via email at Phil.Hobden@sage.com.
New Members, Renewing Members, and What’s Next
Bradley Hatchett, Founder of Network My Club, wrapped up the afternoon by welcoming new members to the NMC community and acknowledging those renewing their membership.
He also shared details of upcoming events across the Network My Club group, including the next event at Fratton Park.
The Next Pompey Business Hub Event
📆 Wednesday 20 May 2026
📍 Fratton Park, Portsmouth
Based on previous events selling out, places will go quickly. We recommend booking early.
You can also view all upcoming events across Network My Club here.
Event Photos
A big thank you to Steven Phyall of Zooming Photography for capturing the day so brilliantly.
Event Gallery
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