The Community Programme at Darlington Football Club, including the Matchday Experience and Mascot Package, has become a key part of the club’s efforts to attract fans of the future.

A passionate young fan base is vital for any club moving forward. Darlington FC has put together the Community Programme in order to create a long standing connection between the club and its younger fans. The Programme has enjoyed great success and continues to grow in popularity, often taking bookings months in advance.

The Matchday Experience, aimed at local youth teams as well as schools and community clubs, is a great experience for young football fans. Every group that visits Heritage Park gets to meet the players in the changing room, form a guard of honour and take penalties on the pitch at half time. Mascots at Darlington receive a complimentary home shirt as well as a tour of the stadium where they meet the players in the changing room. Mascots also have the opportunity to play football on the pitch before leading the Darlington players onto the field for kick off. Being able to meet the players and talk to them in the changing room is a key part of forming a bond between young supporters and the club.

In recent weeks, Darlington has welcomed Caitlin Gunn from Longfield School. Caitlin was the Mascot for Darlington’s game against Stourbridge and loved every minute, she even got a photo with her favourite player Alan White! Caitlin is a goalkeeper for the Martin Gray Football Academy, you might have seen her showing off her skills on the pitch before kick off!

Kenseal Toft, who plays for the 21st All Stars, had a great time as a Mascot for the game against Mickleover Sports. He got loads of photos on the pitch including a great one with Chris Hunter (who is his favourite player!) and another with Nathan Cartman. Kenseal really enjoyed his day at Darlington and can't wait to come and watch the team again!

If you would like to arrange a Matchday Experience or Mascot Package for any young football fan, or if you’re a group or school leader and would like to bring your group – no matter the size -- please email Andrew using Schools@dfc1883.co.uk