eObviously, the reason that the sponsorship arrangements were designed only to apply to Members before the announcement i.e. as at 1st July 2004, was to stop anyone taking advantage of the Club.
It would be easy to join for the £20+£5 fees and get £100+ straight back!
I am not saying for a minute that this is the case here but I have no way of judging that for myself.
Steve's point about Jen joining before she knew about potential sponsorship is certainly valid and I shall be writing to all Henners' original Academy contributors for their opinion before we decide.
Oh and welcome aboard desmojen (do you know what you're getting into girl?)