Work with us
We’re building the thoughtful, fan-led home of Motherwell FC. Pitch to write for the website (volunteer) or contribute to the print fanzine under our 10% contributor model.
Two ways to get involved
Website Writer (Volunteer)
Help us publish sharp, well‑researched articles online: analysis, opinion, explainers, interviews, and data‑led features. This is a volunteer role aimed at amplifying fan voices and building your portfolio.
- Flexible cadence — one‑offs or regular columns
- Editorial guidance and feedback on structure, sourcing, and style
- Byline, bio, and links to your socials/portfolio
Fanzine Contributor (10% contributor model)
Pitch long‑form features, photo essays, historical pieces, data visualisations, or artwork for our print/digital fanzine. We allocate 10% of each Issue’s profit to a contributor fund, split proportionally by published pages or agreed weightings.
- Print‑first editing support and layout collaboration
- Contributor credit in the issue + website promo
- Complimentary digital copy; discounted print copy
“Profit” = revenue minus printing, platform and postage/packaging costs. We share a short post‑Issue summary with contributors.
What we’re looking for
Ideas we love
- Clear angles with a strong human voice
- Evidence‑led analysis (quotes, data, primary sources)
- Pieces that add to the conversation — not just the scoreline
- Respectful, legally sound, and fair to subjects discussed
Guidelines
- Website: 700–1,200 words (flexible)
- Fanzine: 1,200–2,200 words or equivalent visual pages
- Include links to sources; provide image credits
- Declare conflicts (e.g., personal relationships)
Send us your pitch
Use the form or email us your idea. A short paragraph with the hook, why now, and how you’ll report it is perfect.
What happens next
- Acknowledgement & fit check — we’ll confirm receipt and whether it’s right now.
- Commission — if greenlit, we’ll agree scope, deadline, and editing approach.
- Edit — structure, sourcing, tone, and (for print) layout.
- Publish — website or fanzine placement, with proper credit and promo.
Compensation & rights
- Website: volunteer basis. No fee is paid for online articles.
- Fanzine: paid via a 10% contributor fund from Issue profit, split proportionally. Post‑Issue breakdown shared with contributors.
- Rights: you retain copyright. We ask for first publication rights and a non‑exclusive licence to host and promote the work.
- Charity: per‑copy donations to supporter/charity causes may apply and are factored before profit‑sharing.
FAQ
How does the 10% contributor model work?
After an issue closes, we calculate net profit (revenue minus printing, platform, postage/packaging, and essential production costs). 10% of that profit is ring‑fenced for contributors. We split it fairly — usually by published page count or an agreed weighting for graphics/reporting complexity. We send a simple statement when payments go out.
Can I write for both the website and the fanzine?
Yes. Many ideas start online and are later expanded for print. Just select “Both” when you pitch.
Do I need prior experience?
No. A clear idea and willingness to research and revise is what matters. We’ll support you with editing and structure.
What topics are in scope?
Motherwell FC across tactics, transfers, culture, history, data, community stories, and original interviews (where appropriate and ethical). Pieces must be accurate, fair, and add value for supporters.
How long will it take to hear back?
We aim to acknowledge within a few days. During busy production windows, replies can take longer.
Can I republish my piece elsewhere?
After first publication with us (and a short exclusivity window we’ll agree), you can republish with credit linking back to the original.
Do you accept photography or illustration?
Absolutely — fanzine art and photo essays are welcome. Include a small portfolio in your pitch.
Accessibility & safeguarding
Please tell us about any accessibility needs. We also follow common‑sense safeguarding for interviews, particularly with young people.
Still got a question?
Drop us a line at editor@steelmendispatch.com and we’ll get back to you.