Player visits continue… virtually!

Despite the ongoing effects of COVID-19, EFL players across the country are finding new ways to have an impact in their local community through various virtual platforms.

Football Clubs are at the heart of local communities and children see their players as role models. School visits from players across the EFL are a common fixture under usual circumstances, however in many areas, children are currently missing out due to the pandemic.

However, that hasn’t stopped Doncaster Rovers midfielder, Ben Whiteman, paying a surprise virtual visit to some Year 5 and 6 Students at Sunnyfields Primary school in Doncaster. The session included Ben chatting with the children about his life as a footballer, his role as club captain and the overall benefits of playing sport keeping fit and active. This was followed by a Q&A session.

Emma Smith, teacher of the Tiger class at Sunnyfields Primary, in Doncaster, said:

“We loved the opportunity today. The children came up with their own questions to ask Ben.

We’ve got quite a few footballers in our class so it was really good to hear some expert advice on how they can get better and how they can train better.”

Club Doncaster Foundation are keen to make this a regular occurrence during this challenging time. Kelly Jackson-Powell, Sports development officer at Club Doncaster Foundation said:

“Our player visits are always very well received in the community and being able to continue to do this safely is great for the children. 

The class really enjoyed today and were able to chat to Ben about his life as a professional footballer, and even asked him some cheeky questions too!

We’re looking forward to arranging some more events like this in the future.”