Harrogate Town has been awarded a Family Excellence Gold Award for the 2024/25 season for delivering unforgettable matchday experience for families.
The award represents the first time the club has achieved this rank, an improvement on the Silver award received last season.
The club was placed third highest out of all 24 League Two clubs and 13th in the entire 72-team Football League, one of only 18 clubs to be awarded Gold standard.
On the award, CEO Sarah Barry said:
“We are absolutely elated to have achieved the Gold Award within the EFL Family Excellence Scheme.
"Growing attendances and improving the overall match day experience for all ages have been our primary objective for the last three years and we have worked incredibly hard, using the scheme as a framework, to help us deliver the best possible experience for our Supporters.
“We have seen significant growth in attendances and a lot more younger families coming to games as we evolve.
"All EFL Clubs are rated across 12 different areas of the organisation and we have achieved an average score of 9 out of 10 across them all which is fantastic, however, the stand out score and most important aspect in any business is your people and I’m very proud to share that we had a top score of 10 out of 10 for our people!
“We have a wonderful team of dedicated passionate individuals throughout the football club and when we all get together on match days, combined with our magnificent Supporters, it is truly special place to be so thank you to everyone who is part of Harrogate Town, this is a credit to each and every one of you!”
The EFL’s Family Excellence Scheme assesses the matchday experience Clubs provide for families.
Throughout the season, Clubs receive two visits from family assessors who evaluate the matchday experience for families from purchasing tickets right through to the moment they leave the stadium.
The family assessors consider the quality of matchday activations and experience, stadium accessibility and facilities, retail and refreshments, and how the Club communicates with families.
Fan Engagement Manager Hamilton Mattock said:
“We are incredibly proud of this award that is a testament to the hard work, passion, and dedication of everyone involved.
“Creating an outstanding matchday experience for families has been at the heart of what we do, and it's essential as we look to grow and strengthen our fan base.
“The recognition from the EFL shows that we’re heading in the right direction. We’ve already seen a significant increase in family attendance at our games, and we’ll continue to evaluate, improve, and build on this momentum.
“A massive thank you to the entire team for their commitment in making this achievement possible.”
Alongside the award, the club also shared some positive feedback from families over the past season.
They said:
“I thought it was a very friendly atmosphere, and I was particularly Impressed by the communication with the fans through the evening.
"It gave the vibe of a very friendly family club and experience - top marks to all involved.”
“Fantastic local club. Great family atmosphere in the stadium.
"The flat bearing and mini game at half time means a lot to the local kids, and is a great way to introduce them to Harrogate.”
“A lovely experience with some lovely personal touches.
"It was a nice touch to have a good number of children from grassroots teams there as well.”
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