EFL Clubs Achieve Record Number Of Family Excellence Gold Awards
A record number of EFL clubs have achieved Family Excellence recognition with Stoke City being named the overall Family Excellence Club of the Season for 2024/25.
The scheme awards EFL clubs with either Gold, Silver or Bronze status in celebration of the outstanding work they deliver to create an unforgettable matchday experience for families.
Throughout the season, clubs receive two visits from family assessors who evaluate the matchday experience for families, from purchasing tickets right through to the moment they leave the stadium.
The family assessors consider the quality of matchday activations and experience, stadium accessibility and facilities, and how the Club communicates with them.
A record 18 EFL clubs have received Gold status this season, another milestone for the scheme, which also saw two clubs – Bradford City and Coventry City – leapfrog Silver status to earn Gold for the first time.
However, it was Stoke City who took the overall crown and have been recognised as the Family Excellence Club of the Season for 2024/25.
Stoke City excelled across all touchpoints and was praised for its warm and friendly approach to new families, the service provided by their matchday staff, and the range of family entertainment on offer across the stadium.
Family assessors lauded the experience for young, first-time fans who are treated to a pitch side photo and a special welcome gift from the club but also noted the extensive range of pre-match activity in the FanZone that included face painting, arcade games and a golf putting station.
EFL Chief Executive Officer, Trevor Birch, said: “We are incredibly proud of the effort all our Clubs put in to ensure the matchday experience is a welcoming and enjoyable one for all families.
“To see more clubs than ever before receive Family Excellence recognition is testament to the unforgettable day out our clubs work hard to deliver for families up and down the country. The scheme is designed to support clubs and we have seen it help them to expand their ever-growing fanbases and attract the next generation of supporters.
“Stoke City has demonstrated that they are worthy winners of the Family Excellence Club of the Season. From delighting first-time fans with dugout and pitch side photos, welcome letters and gifts, through to offering action-packed family zone activities and memorable staff interactions, Stoke City’s fantastic family experience has made a positive and lasting impact on both old and new supporters of the club.”
