Derby County has been awarded with Silver EFL Family Excellence status, in recognition of the club’s outstanding work in delivering an enjoyable matchday experience for families at Pride Park Stadium throughout 2024/25.
A record number of clubs have been recognised by the Family Excellence Scheme, which awards Gold, Silver or Bronze status based on assessments carried out by families of varying profiles at selected fixtures during the season.
The Scheme assesses the matchday experience that clubs provide for families across two visits, where assessors document their findings from purchasing tickets until the moment they leave the stadium.
Amongst the attributes that are considered are: quality of matchday activations, accessibility, facilities, retail, refreshments and much more.
The summary of the report submitted to the club stated:“The excellent web content helps families plan their day and the North Stand Family Area also stood out.
“The Activity Zone and outdoor activities were also a highlight, with numerous activities and engaging staff creating matchday memories for young children.”
The North Stand Family Area was updated this season to include new Guess the Score and Guess the Attendance challenges for families, while pieces of artwork designed by winners of a competition for Young Rams were installed in February.
Several activities are also available for children of all ages within the Activity Zone, which is located within Harrison’s Hub in the North West Corner of Pride Park.
Young supporters can take part in competitions, play video games, foosball, colouring, board games and much more, while there is also a Tuck Shop for refreshments and a new Matchday Store which stocks essential Derby County merchandise.
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.”
Click here to find out more about the Matchday Experience for home supporters at Pride Park Stadium.
