Over 150 Robins players and parents enjoyed a superb day out at the Swindon Town v Chesterfield game on Saturday 23rd April, courtesy of the club's brilliant Pro-Red initiative, of which Robins are a founding member.
All the Robins teams gathered excitedly behind the Town End shortly after 2pm to collect their discounted tickets then made our way up the stand en masse – in a sea of Robins (and Swindon Town!) Red & White! As the excitement built in anticipation of the match, the Robins players made their way down to the pitch where they paraded around the pitch before the teams came out, proudly flying the Robins FC flag. The parade was well received, as the crowd generously applauded the Robins players as they made their way round the pitch, then as the teams came out, a group of Robins players from all age groups formed a guard of honour at the tunnel entrance as the Swindon and Chesterfield players took to the pitch. Then we scuttled back to our seats to watch the first half, a half that Swindon had the better of, but couldn't convert their chances!
As half-time approached, the U7 players made their way to pitch side to prepare for a half-time match on the pitch, providing a fantastic advert for what Robins FC are all about with a well-contested match full of enthusiasm, commitment, no shortage of skill and lots of smiles. A final lap of honour at the end of the half-time match again drew generous applause from the STFC faithful, as our players left the pitch to ringing chants of "You Reds! You Reds!" from the Town End.
The second half was better than the first as the Robins contingent kept up their vocal support throughout, and Swindon finally gave them something to cheer about with a well-taken goal that proved to be the winner as all the Robins teams went mad! Throughout the game you could always hear the Robins group belting out their support, loud and proud to be Swindon fans and Robins players!
Once the game was over we all headed to Bar 71 for refreshments and a Q&A with two current first team players, in the form of Brad Barry and James Brophy. The players generously gave of their time, answering some great questions from the Robins players and then kindly stayed until every last autograph was signed with programmes, shirts and several football boots anointed with the star signatures! There were also plenty of selfies taken as the young players thronged to have their photos taken with the pros they one day hope to emulate.
The day then drew to a close. Great day, great weather, great advert for the club, the chance to meet some a couple of "real-life" footballers and the Robins players did themselves and the club proud! Pro-Red is an excellent scheme to introduce youngsters to the excitement of supporting their local team. It's a great way to remind them that football's not just a programme on TV but all the more exciting when you watch it in REAL 3D - live!
There's a gallery of photos from the day on our photos section here.