Sheffield Wednesday have been awarded ‘The EFL Family Excellence Award’ for the 2016/17 season.
The EFL Family Excellence Award winners were announced today for the 2016/17 season.
A record breaking number of 51 clubs from across all three EFL divisions have been recognised.
Created in 2007, the EFL Family Excellence Award recognises the outstanding experience provided by clubs for young fans and families, as well as their efforts to enhance the matchday experience.
Now in its 10th year, an unprecedented number of clubs have attained the Family Excellence Award for 2017, with a significant increase in the benchmark standard being applied by the judging panel.
More than ever this year, EFL clubs are providing families with engaging and innovative matchday entertainment, as they continue to find new and unique ways to attract fans and their families to matches.
Such experiences include high levels of ticket booking assistance for families, extensive pre-match advice, exciting entertainment both inside and outside stadiums, access to players, mascots and dedicated family zones and activities.
Over the past 10 years, more and more young people have made their way through the turnstiles in the EFL, with junior Season Ticket sales having increased by a staggering 37% since 2007, and 20% of all EFL club match attendees now under the age of 16.
Such evidence is a strong indication of a healthy future for football in this country according to Shaun Harvey, EFL Chief Executive.
He said: “The EFL Family Excellence Awards have proven to be a fantastic vehicle for celebrating and highlighting the excellent progress that clubs are making in providing families with improved matchday experiences.
“The awards have made a significant impact and this year’s winners have once again shown how innovative thinking and a strong commitment can enhance the experience.
“I wish to congratulate each and every club who has been recognised for playing their part in continuing to attract a growing number of younger fans to the game in what is undoubtedly a valuable indication of a bright and healthy future for the EFL.”
SWFC Director of Communications Trevor Braithwait said: “We are delighted once again to receive this prestigious award.
“We are committed year on year to enhance the family values of Sheffield Wednesday and this award is testament to that ethos.
“Sheffield Wednesday are committed to growing all aspects of the club, with fans at the forefront and as we move forward on the field, off the field we are very proud that our extensive efforts have been recognised with this accolade.
“Each department at the club should be very proud of their efforts and next year, we aim to raise the bar even higher, with exciting new plans to enhance the family experience to be announced in due course.”