Youngsters enjoyed a special behind-the-scenes glimpse into life at a professional football club during a memorable visit to Colchester United’s JobServe Community Stadium.
The event was for siblings who are either bereaved or have a brother or sister receiving care from East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) at The Treehouse, in Ipswich.
They were given exclusive access to areas usually reserved for players and staff as they explored the home of the League Two U’s.
Based in the club’s Legends Suite, the group was shown around by Francesca Brooke and Callum Boylan, from the Colchester United Community Foundation (CUCF).
The highlight of the day was a stadium tour that took the children beyond the stands and into the inner workings of the club.
They visited both the home and away dressing rooms, stepped pitch-side and even got a look inside the chairman’s office.
“It was a brilliant and very interactive experience, which the children clearly enjoyed,” said Hailey Allen, EACH’s Play Specialist at The Treehouse.
“They were entertained and engaged throughout and took the opportunity to ask lots of questions.
“As well as being an exciting day out, the trip helped new siblings settle in and build relationships, and it was lovely to see them quickly become involved in the activities.
“It proved a winning experience for everyone involved, and our sincere thanks go to Francesca, Callum and everyone at Colchester United.”
After discovering what happens behind the scenes on matchdays, the children had the chance to create their own football memories during a session on the club’s Astro pitch.
The visit also included lunch and colouring activities before a surprise meeting with the U’s mascot, Eddie the Eagle.
In the afternoon, the children kept cool in Eddie’s Nest – a purpose-built recreation area featuring PlayStation and Xbox consoles, air hockey, table football, darts, bean bags and giant versions of Jenga and Connect 4.
Francesca, the CUCF’s Health and Inclusion Officer, added: “We were honoured and delighted to spend the day with this incredible group of children and adults from EACH.
“Both Callum and I finished the day feeling inspired by everyone’s spirit and sense of fun and we would like to thank EACH for sharing this special sibling day with us.”
