Rochdale AFC Community Matchday Impact – 2025/26 Season

Beyond the action on the pitch, the Crown Oil Arena has become a place where the community comes together—where young fans experience football for the first time, local groups feel represented, and supporters unite to make a difference.

So far this season, that sense of togetherness has been reflected in the numbers, but more importantly, in the stories behind them.

Over 6,000 tickets (6,146) have been distributed across the community, opening the doors of the stadium to thousands of local people. Among them, 1,715 tickets have been given to primary school pupils, giving them the chance to attend a live match—many stepping into a football ground for the very first time. For those young supporters, it’s not just a day out; it’s the beginning of a lifelong connection with the club and the game.

That connection has been strengthened further through grassroots football. Across two themed matchdays, 54 local teams have been welcomed to Rochdale AFC, giving young players the opportunity to be part of a professional matchday environment. For them, it’s a chance to feel like the stars they look up to—and to see that football at Rochdale truly belongs to them.

Matchdays have also been about unforgettable personal moments. This season has seen 80 mascots walk out hand-in-hand with their heroes, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Alongside this, 13 matchday parties have brought people together to celebrate in a different way, adding another layer to the club’s community offering.

Through our matchday masjids programme, six local mosques have brought groups to a matchday, strengthening connections across diverse communities, ensuring that everyone feels welcome.

And, as always, the generosity of Dale supporters has shone through. Across the season so far,£1,139.25 has been raised through matchday bucket collections. These contributions have supported a number of important causes, including Manchester Children’s Hospital, Samaritans, the Lee Rigby Foundation, and K Stars. Each donation, no matter the size, is a reflection of a fanbase that cares deeply about its community.

We have also ran many themed matchdays – the supporting the Rochdale Toy appeal and holding a Santa Dash at Christmas, distributing Easter Eggs at Easter, our Remembrance fixture, Level Playing Fields, International Womens Day and most recently, the first Rochdale AFC Colour Dash, which raised just under £10,000!

Our projects have also had focus days, with Premier League Primary Stars holding a Halloween Party and Christmas STEM Event, our Headstart participants joining us for a celebration event, Sports College Open Days, the Jobs Fair on the Forest Green fixture as well as participants from across our teams joining us on a regular basis.

Taken together, these moments paint a clear picture. Rochdale AFC is more than just a football club—it’s a focal point for the town, a place where people come together, and a force for good.

Thank you all for your support throughout the year!