It is one of the highlights of the season at the Eco-Power Stadium and Junior Takeover Day is coming back for 2024.
Members of the Rovers first team squad visited primary schools across the city to launch this year’s event, which will take place on March 23 at the clash with Forest Green Rovers.
Hosted by the Club Doncaster Foundation, Junior Takeover Day sees eight to 11-year-olds from partner schools take on job roles alongside members of staff for an unforgettable experience of behind-the-scenes on a matchday.
This year’s event will form part of the Foundation’s designated community matchday where the work of the organisation and its participants is recognised.
Rovers captain Richard Wood dropped into Thorne King Edward Primary along with Louis Jones and Ben Bottomley to help launch the Junior Takeover Day application process.
“Thinking back to when I was at school, a long time ago, I don’t think there was anything like that for me,” he said.
“To get the chance to play on the pitch, commentate or be the chief exec - it’s brilliant for the kids to get involved in.
“I can’t see why everyone wouldn’t apply and go for all the different roles and jobs that day. It’s really good.”
Roles on offer to youngsters include first team manager and player, referee, media, commentator, tannoy announcer, community coach, Donny Dog’s assistant, groundsperson and CEO.
Pupils are required to write letters to state why they should be given a matchday role with the successful applicants notified in early March.
Foundation chief executive John Davis said: “We have had so many incredible Junior Takeover Days over the years and we’re really looking forward to doing it all again.
“It’s fantastic to be able to work with our brilliant partner schools to reward deserving youngsters with a once in a lifetime experience of a Rovers matchday.
“I look forward to seeing the applications coming in over the next few weeks.”
