Mawdsleys' celebrates continued partnership with family fun day at Doncaster Rovers

Saturday 25 April had it all. Emotion, celebration and a moment of magic. An unforgettable afternoon was about more than just what happened on the pitch for Club Doncaster Foundation, as Doncaster Rovers hosted Stevenage in the final home game of the 25/26 campaign.

It was also Mawdsleys’ Family Day, a special occasion dedicated to one of our most valued partners. Their support has made a real difference to so many participants across our programmes, and this was our chance to say thank you in one of the best ways.

Mawdsleys’ impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. Their continued investment and hands-on support, particularly with initiatives such as Remembering Rovers, our dementia support programme which takes place on Rovers matchdays at the Eco-Power Stadium, has helped us reach people who need it most. Earlier this year, they even provided fleeces and hats to participants, ensuring they could stay warm and comfortable on matchdays. A small gesture that made a big difference.

To show our appreciation, we welcomed Mawdsleys’ staff and their families for a full day of football-filled fun.

The day included a behind the scenes stadium tour, offering a glimpse into a matchday, including stepping through the players’ tunnel and even meeting manager Grant McCann along the way.

The experience continued outside on the astroturf, where one of our coaches led an energetic and enjoyable football session that brought smiles all round.

One of the most meaningful moments of the day came when the group met participants from Remembering Rovers. They were warmly welcomed by both participants and two Rovers players, Jordan Gibson and Glenn Middleton. It was a powerful reminder of how partnerships like this go far beyond the game itself.

Children were treated to goodie bags and time in Donny Dog’s Kennel before being flag bearers, soaking in the crowds atmosphere. At half-time, they returned to the pitch once again for penalty shoot-outs, creating memories that will last a lifetime, with Sharp rounding off the day, signing off his Rovers’ home career by doing what he has always done best. Finding the back of the net. A fitting end to a remarkable day.

Mustafa Haider, H&S Advisor at Mawdsleys, commented: “The experience was brilliantly organised, and it was great to see our colleagues and their families enjoying everything from the stadium tour to stepping out onto the pitch.”

He continued: “Our partnership has been hugely positive, not only in providing opportunities like this but in supporting staff wellbeing, morale, and engagement across our sites. Events like this bring people together outside of the workplace, strengthen relationships, and create a real sense of team spirit.

“The feedback from everyone who attended has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re looking forward to building on this partnership moving forward.”

For supporters, this was a matchday to treasure. For Mawdsleys, it was a day of recognition, celebration and unforgettable experiences. For everyone involved, it was a powerful reminder of what football can bring to a community.

If you are interested in supporting Club Doncaster Foundation or becoming a partner, please contact louise.power@clubdoncasterfoundation.co.uk