Going to a live football match can be a great place for families to come together and enjoy quality time. Whether it’s a child’s first match, a weekly tradition between generations or a day out shared with friends and family, football offers experiences that go far beyond the action on the pitch.
This season, the EFL’s Family Excellence Scheme celebrates its milestone 20th season – two decades of work supporting Clubs across England and Wales to create welcoming, accessible and enjoyable matchday experiences for families and young supporters.
Since its launch in 2006/07, the Scheme has supported Clubs in improving the family matchday experience, helping to inspire the next generation of fans while strengthening ties between football clubs and the communities they serve.
Over the past two decades, the Family Excellence Scheme has contributed to significant growth in junior attendance. During that period, junior season ticket sales across the EFL have increased by 73%, underlining the growing role that children and families play in the future of the game.
EFL Chief Executive Trevor Birch said: “This is a proud milestone for the EFL and our Clubs. For twenty seasons, the Family Excellence Scheme has helped put families and young supporters at the heart of the matchday experience, encouraging Clubs to think differently about how they welcome, inspire and build lasting connections with the next generation of fans. We are incredibly proud of its impact and look forward to celebrating the Clubs, communities and people who have made Family Excellence such an important part of the EFL story.”
The Family Excellence Scheme recognises and rewards Clubs for delivering outstanding experiences for families, with independent assessors visiting grounds throughout the season to evaluate everything from ticketing and facilities to customer service, entertainment and family-focused activities.
Beyond attendance figures, the Scheme has helped foster stronger community connections and create opportunities for shared experiences that bring generations together. For many families, supporting their local Club becomes a tradition that can be passed from parents and grandparents to children, strengthening family bonds and local pride.
Throughout the landmark season, the EFL will celebrate the families, supporters, Clubs and staff who have helped shape the success of the Family Excellence Scheme over the last two decades, sharing stories that demonstrate the unique role football continues to play in family life.
