More than 100 children and their families enjoyed an extra special matchday when they attended the launch of the new family area at Hillsborough on Saturday.
Youngsters enjoyed taking part in an array of pre-match activities as the club unveiled Ollie’s Kids Zone; a new custom-designed family space in the stadium’s Grandstand.
The area, named after mascot Ollie Owl, features colourful Wednesday-themed murals created by visual artists Urban Canvas and is hosted by staff from the SWFC Community Programme.
The new activity programme went down a treat with young supporters who enjoyed a lesson in ‘Gangnam Style’ dancing from the SWFC Community Dance Troupe and listened to football stories read by staff from Hillsborough Library.
A visit from Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeping duo Nicky Weaver and Arron Jameson also proved popular as they posed for photos and signed autographs for the crowds.
Mascots Ollie, Barney and Ozzie Owl didn’t miss out on the action; meeting fans and serving up food in the Bluebell Wood charity kiosk.
The food outlet, which was also launched at the Wolves game, is staffed by volunteers from the Community Programme, with stadium caterers The Lindley Group donating the equivalent wages to the hospice charity.
The club’s Family Liaison Tom Garland said: “It was fantastic to see so many families make use of our family area and enjoying the new matchday entertainment programme.
“We hope Ollie’s Kids Zone will go from strength to strength and encourage even more families to come to Hillsborough on a Matchday.”
Ollie’s Kids Zone will be open at all Sheffield Wednesday home games from 1.30pm until kick-off. Activities include free face painting, dance tutorials, player and mascot visits and the chance to win exclusive prizes in Matchday competitions.