The EFL’s Family Excellence Scheme is celebrating a major milestone in 2026/27, marking twenty seasons of helping Clubs transform the matchday experience for families and young supporters across England and Wales.
Since its launch, the Scheme has played a central role in inspiring the next generation of fans and supporting Clubs to create welcoming, accessible and memorable matchdays that strengthen connections with families and their local communities.
Developed and delivered in partnership with the Fan Experience Company from the outset, the Scheme has grown from an initiative to support Clubs in identifying barriers to attendance, into a major driver of junior and family engagement. It helps Clubs attract young supporters and create experiences which establish lasting connections with football from an early age.
Over the past two decades, the Family Excellence Scheme has contributed to significant growth in junior attendance. During that period, junior season ticket sales across the EFL have increased by 73%, underlining the growing role that children and families play in the future of the game.
EFL Chief Executive Trevor Birch said: “This is a proud milestone for the EFL and our Clubs. For twenty seasons, the Family Excellence Scheme has helped put families and young supporters at the heart of the matchday experience, encouraging Clubs to think differently about how they welcome, inspire and build lasting connections with the next generation of fans. We are incredibly proud of its impact and look forward to celebrating the Clubs, communities and people who have made Family Excellence such an important part of the EFL story.”
Outside of attendance figures, the Scheme continues to strengthen the connection between Clubs and the communities they serve and helps ensure football remains relevant to local families. It has created opportunities for shared experiences and celebrations that bring generations together.
Throughout the milestone season, the EFL will celebrate stories showcasing Clubs, supporters, families and staff who have helped shape the Scheme’s success.
