The record-breaking number, up from 63 Clubs in 2019/20, recognises continuous improvement and best practice in family engagement across the EFL and rewards clubs in their efforts to attract and retain young fans of the future.
Given the particularly challenging set of circumstances faced during the Covid-19 pandemic, EFL clubs have worked hard to ensure supporters have been welcomed back safely this season, while exploring new and innovative ways to continue to boost the matchday experience for youngsters and families.
Now in its 14th year, the Family Excellence Scheme is an ongoing consultation programme, which aims to drive continuous improvement and best practice in family engagement across the leagues.
The scheme sees each EFL club receive 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, Trevor Birch, said: “I would like to congratulate the record number of clubs that have achieved Family Excellence status this season. Ensuring a memorable matchday experience is vital to attract the next generation of young fans, so it’s great to see so many clubs excelling in this area.
“Fans returning to EFL clubs in their millions this season has been fantastic to see and club staff should be commended for going the extra mile to make the matchdays engaging for families attending live games.”
The Gold Award Winners for 2021/22 are as follows; Blackburn Rovers, Doncaster Rovers, Exeter City, Fulham, Hull City, Luton Town, Mansfield Town, Middlesbrough, Scunthorpe United, Sheffield United, Stoke City, and Swindon Town.
We will have a more detailed article about the Iron’s ‘Gold Award’ achievement on the club website early next week.
