The magnificent Gelredome may only be small - a 30,000 capacity is hardly going to set the world on fire - but quality not quantity is the secret to its success.

Arguably the most modern stadium in the world, Gelredome boasts many features which not only lead the world of stadia but give a clear indication of the future direction stadium facilities will take.

The most obvious innovation of this arena is its retractable roof which allows the facility to host conferences, conventions and pop concerts (the Spice Girls were the first to perform here).

Just as famous now, though not as visible, is the stadium's retractable pitch, a fantastic innovation which offers many advantages to the facility. The pitch retracts out onto an external carpark during non match days, utilising the stadiums surrounding space. Not only can non-sporting events be hosted without damaging the playing surface, the pitch can also benefit from direct 'roof-free' sunlight, therefore allowing its continued good health. Sunlight is so often inhibited by stadia roofs these days that clubs such as Ajax, Manchester united and the two Milan giants find that their magnificent arenas play havoc with their pitches to the extent of requiring constant renewing. This is a costly and time consuming exercise which the Gelredome model makes redundent.

Inside the spectator concourse forms a smooth uninterupted pathway around the whole stadium allowing fans to pass unhindered form one side to the other. Their are many food, merchandise and toilet facilities to utilise compared with older stadia. The interesting aspect here is that all purchases are made with the facilities own currency rather than straight cash.

Fans purchase special electronic credit-card sized currency from numerous machines throughout, then upon payment of goods present said card. This creates a secure cash-free environment which allows for speedy payments. The club taylors its prices to reflect enhance the deniminations available. Anyone who has extra credits remainingon their card can insert it back into the original dispenser to receive a remaining refund.

The downside for fans is that after a game who can be bothered to queue to get their money back? This means that the facility is earning extra 'unspent' revenue, particularly from those people who don't intend to return to the venue. Even those people who regularly attend the Gelredome and may continue to use the same card are in effect allowing the facility to earn vital interest of their 'investment'. From the facility's point of view this a smart move, earning extra revenue at its patrons expense. It is hardly suprising that many sports clubs are considering this 'innovative' approach to spending money. One other example of this exists in Holland already at the Ajax Amsterdam Arena...

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