Sunderland AFC defenders Billy Jones and Adam Matthews today attended Marsden Primary School to launch the club’s ‘Fan Fest’, which takes place on Monday October 23 at the Stadium of Light, between 10am and 3pm.
Fan Fest is a free event for supporters of all ages, giving fans a rare opportunity to watch the first team train, as well as take part in a range of free activities in and around the Stadium.
From boarding the first team bus to meeting the players after training at dedicated signing sessions, fans are set to experience a fantastic day out this half term. Fan Fest will feature a specially created action-packed Fan Village, featuring a wide range of activities from partners such adidas, Utilita, Everyone Active, Mercedes-Benz and the Foundation of Light. Local organisations including the Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service and North Tyneside Mountain Rescue will also be in attendance.
Sunderland AFC chief executive, Martin Bain said: “Fan Fest is a great opportunity for our supporters to watch the first team being put through their paces. But it is also a chance for the community in Sunderland to come together, this half term, to create a great day out for fans of all ages.
“We held an open training session earlier this year and over 7,000 people came along to watch the team. Fan Fest is set to be bigger and better this time round, with a whole host of activities for families to enjoy. We’ve received amazing support and participation from sponsors and local organisations, and I have no doubt that Fan Fest is going to be a brilliant day out for all the family.”
Billy Jones said “I think Fan Fest is a great idea and I’m looking forward to training in the Stadium on October 23 with the fans watching. I have no doubt the atmosphere will be tremendous. Support from the fans is so important to us, so I’m glad we are able to open to doors to a training session.”
Fan Fest is completely free to attend and fans are asked to register their interest via www.safc.com/fanfest.
Fan Fest forms part of a range of activities taking place at the Stadium of Light this October half term. Tours of the Stadium will take place every day during the half term week, with children under 16 going free with every paying adult.
Those taking part in the tour will also receive a 10% voucher for the SAFC Store. To book, call Malcolm Hopkins on 0871 911 1224.
The week concludes with the Junior Black Cat Halloween Party on October 29 from 11am and 2pm at the Stadium of Light. Ticket purchasers will be treated to fun, games and music, as well as appearances from first team players and Sunderland AFC mascots, Samson and Delilah. As it’s Halloween, children and adults are encouraged to come along in fancy dress with a prize for the best dressed.
Tickets for the Junior Black Cat Halloween party are £10 per person and include a food voucher. To book, please call the Ticket Office on 0371 911 1973.
Further information on all the activities is available via www.safc.com/fanfest