Family Excellence Award for Rochdale AFC

Rochdale AFC receives Family Excellence Award

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Rochdale AFC has once again been awarded Family Excellence status by the EFL for the 2017/18 season.

The EFL Family Excellence Award recognises the experience provided by Dale for young fans and families, as well as the efforts to enhance the match day experience.

This season saw the club introduce £10 season tickets for juniors aged 11 and under, and the club is continuing that offer for the 2018/19 season.

Purchasing a £10 season ticket also automatically means youngsters become a member of the Junior Dale Club.

The club holds junior events at every Saturday home match, including events such as meeting Elf On The Shelf, Christmas and Easter workshops, and even a beach party.

These events give youngsters the chance to be creative with various arts and crafts, and also receive free gifts, before watching Dale take to the pitch.

The club has also renamed the family section at the Crown Oil Arena the ‘Joshua McCormack Family Enclosure’, in memory of the five-year-old Dale who sadly died after a brave battle with a brain tumour.

Chief Executive Russ Green said: “We are delighted to have again been awarded the Family Excellence Award.

“We believe family to be a crucial part of Rochdale AFC, so it is fantastic that the hard work from everyone at the club has been recognised for this award.

“The hard work will carry on, as we continue to make Rochdale AFC a great day out for all the family.”

EFL Clubs received two ‘mystery family’ visits throughout the season, with their feedback and reports determining whether each respective club would achieve ‘Family Excellence’ status.

EFL Chief Executive, Shaun Harvey, said: “It is hugely encouraging to see the continuous development and improvement made by EFL Clubs in offering engaging match day experiences for families.

“For over a decade the EFL’s Family Excellence Scheme has helped to produce positive and impactful change across the leagues, helping to drive a real focus on match day entertainment, facilities and the overall experience on offer for families, and ultimately to assist in growing attendances.”