Inclusive communities: Creating first matchday memories

First Bus has teamed up with Huddersfield Town and Soothill Community Association to give families from Batley the chance to experience a live football match for the very first time.

On Saturday 13 December, 50 adults and children from 17 families travelled together by bus from Soothill Community Centre in Batley to Huddersfield’s Accu Stadium for Town’s fixture against Wigan Athletic. For many, it was their first ever matchday experience.

The trip was arranged through a partnership between First Bus and Huddersfield Town, aimed at improving access to sport and culture for families in communities where financial barriers and limited awareness can make opportunities like this difficult to access.

A festive day to remember

Before kick-off, families took part in a range of activities organised by the club, including time in the community hub playing table football and games consoles. Outside the stadium, children enjoyed festive attractions such as a Christmas snow globe and a football skills session with Santa.

Families were then shown to their seats to watch the match, which ended in a 1–1 draw — rounding off a memorable day filled with excitement, connection and celebration.

Building confidence, belonging and community

Habib Dadiwala, Lead at Soothill Community Association, said the trip had a lasting impact beyond the match itself.

“For many on the trip, attending an event like this would not have been possible due to financial barriers and a lack of awareness about access to such opportunities.

Families experienced first-hand the cultural, social and sporting benefits of a live football match. It was a really positive occasion, helping to build confidence and a stronger sense of belonging within the wider community.”

Habib added that several children who previously showed little interest in football have since become enthusiastic about the sport and their local club.

Parents also praised the experience, with one saying:

“My children were able to spend time with their friends away from school and the mosque and do something different. They also made new friends.”