Young Dons’ fans will have more reasons than ever to enjoy a trip to Pittodrie’s Merkland Family Stand this season thanks to Simmons & Company International, which has renewed its sponsorship for the 2014/15 season.

Long terms supporters of Aberdeen Football Club, the corporate finance advisors to the energy sector have teamed up with the Club to offer the ultimate match-day experience for youngsters at every home match.
With Si the Seagull, the official mascot of the Merkland Family Stand, leading the fun, there will be face painters, stilt walkers and giant, crowd-surfing balls helping to create an exciting atmosphere before the action kicks off on the pitch. 

The partnership will also enable children from Aberdeen City and Shire to enjoy a complimentary day out at Pittodrie with 200 match tickets being distributed to schools and community groups throughout the North-east for every home match.

Family stand sponsors at Pittodrie since July 2011, Simmons has supported the club in its efforts to create a dedicated family area for young supporters to eenjoy the games in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. The programme of activity supported by Simmons saw average attendance rise by over a third in the last season alone.

This season, Simmons is also lending its backing to AFC’s efforts to promote healthy lifestyles in the community.

Simmons is proud to be launching ‘#DONSFAMILY IN TRAINING’ alongside AFC’s In the Community team. Aimed at encouraging Merkland Family Stand season ticket holders to get active and healthy as a family, participants will be invited to take part in monthly sessions at Pittodrie. These will include enjoying a behind the scenes look at the club, taking part in sessions delivered by AFC Community Coaches, gaining access to some of the best fitness facilities in the country at Aberdeen Sports Village, and ultimately getting fit andf having fun as a family.

Nick Dalgarno, managing director at Simmons & Company International, said: “AFC is a true community club and we are delighted to again be playing our part in ensuring families enjoy a great atmosphere at home games in the Merkland stand. The work of the club’s community team also ensures that families can enjoy a healthy connection with their team outside match days, which is an excellent way to build stronger links with the younger fans and promote healthy lifestyle choices.”

For more information about ‘#DONSFAMILY IN TRAINING’, please contact AFC Community Trust's Community Projects Officer David Smith via email on david.smith@afc.co.uk or by calling on (01224) 650456.