Lance Cook, the voice behind some of the most electrifying moments at Bristol Rovers' stadium, is thrilled to be part of the matchday staff for Bristol Rovers Women's team in their upcoming season in the FA Women's National League.
Bristol Rovers' first 2024/25 match in the FA Women’s National League sees the Gas host A.F.C. Bournemouth at the Memorial Stadium. Their first match kicks off the new ownership with every home game being played in BS7.
Tickets are still available for Sunday’s season opener and can be purchased HERE! Adults from £4, Under 14s from £2.
Fans with Men's Season Tickets can gain FREE entry to all of the Bristol Rovers WFC home games - you will just need to scan your mens season card on the day!
Having spent years announcing for the men’s side, Cook brings with him a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of how crucial the atmosphere at The Memorial Stadium, affectionately known as "The Mem," can be to a team's performance.
Reflecting on his years of service, Cook emphasized the undeniable impact that crowd support has on matchdays. "It makes a huge difference," Cook remarked.
"I’ve been in the middle of some great moments, some not so great moments, and an entire season where we had no fans in the stadium at all. I think it was over that period during the lockdown season where we saw, not just at Rovers, but within every sport, that fans make the atmosphere for the players to perform in."
Cook's insight into the dynamics of a live crowd is backed by his years of firsthand experience. He recalls the eerie silence of games played during the COVID-19 lockdown, where the absence of fans was palpably felt. "If we can get as many in for the women’s games this season," Cook continued, "we could build a great atmosphere for the team to thrive under."
The veteran announcer is no stranger to memorable moments on the mic. When asked about his most unforgettable experience, Cook didn't hesitate to mention the Rovers' spectacular 7-0 victory against Scunthorpe, a game that secured the men's team's promotion in dramatic fashion.
"It has to be the entire 7-0 final day win against Scunthorpe to secure promotion in the most dramatic of fashions," he recalled. "From the pre-match atmosphere, to each goal being scored, to the 20-minute gap between the seventh goal and full-time which felt like 20 years! It was all a blur at the time but so memorable to look back on now."
As Cook prepares for the upcoming season with the women's team, his enthusiasm is palpable. "It’s a massive honour to be involved in bringing a matchday atmosphere to The Mem for the team for this historic season," he said.
Lance is particularly excited about the opening day clash with AFC Bournemouth, as well as key matchups against Swindon Town and Bridgewater United. "I watched the game at Cardiff City in pre-season, and the squad is looking in great shape."
Tickets are still available for Sunday’s season opener and can be purchased HERE! Adults from £4, Under 14s from £2.
Fans with Men's Season Tickets can gain FREE entry to all of the Bristol Rovers WFC home games - you will just need to scan your mens season card on the day!
