Junior Takeover Day set to return to Doncaster Rovers this weekend

Members of the first team squad visited primary schools across the city to launch this year’s event, which takes place on Saturday at the clash with Forest Green Rovers.

Hosted by Club Doncaster Foundation, Junior Takeover Day sees eight to 11-year-olds take on job roles alongside members of staff for an unforgettable experience of behind-the-scenes on a matchday.

This year’s event forms part of the Foundation’s designated community matchday where work of the organisation and participants is recognised.

Rovers captain Richard Wood dropped into Thorne King Edward Primary along with Louis Jones and Ben Bottomley to help launch the Junior Takeover Day project.

“Thinking back to when I was at school, a long time ago, I don’t think there was anything like that for me,” he said. “It’s brilliant for the kids to get involved in.

Roles on offer to youngsters on Saturday will include first team manager and player, referee, media, commentator, tannoy announcer, community coach, Donny Dog’s assistant, groundsperson and CEO.

Pupils were required to write letters to state why they should be given a matchday role with the successful applicants notified earlier this month.

Foundation chief executive John Davis said: “We have had so many incredible Junior Takeover Days over the years and we’re really looking forward to doing it all again.

“It’s fantastic to be able to work with our brilliant partner schools to reward deserving youngsters with a once in a lifetime experience of a Rovers matchday.