Albion’s Sky Bet Championship clash against QPR this Saturday (September 12, ko 12.30pm) will mark this season’s dedicated Foundation Day fixture.
The club will once again unite with The Albion Foundation to showcase the incredible work they do in the local community - including a particular spotlight on their new five-year ‘Get Behind The Badge’ strategy, which is being launched in the build-up to the game.
There are plenty of plans to make Foundation Day a special occasion. Baggies fans will find a clapper waiting for them at The Hawthorns, and they are encouraged to raise these in the air to create the famous blue and white stripes around the stadium as the players enter the pitch.
Each clapper will also contain a QR code people can scan to find out more about The Foundation, as well as how they can win some fantastic money can’t buy prizes.
Before the game, Foundation staff will be outside the stadium and in the Fan Zone to tell supporters about their work and invite everyone to take part in the Foundation’s match day lottery, Baggies Bonanza, where a cash prize of up to £1,000 is available.
They will also be collecting donations - so fans are encouraged to ‘bring a pound to the ground’ if they can, or donate at any time by texting TAF(AMOUNT) to 70470.
Half-time will see future plans for the Foundation shared on the big screen, and an emotive, shining example of the strategy in action.
Andy Johnson will join them pitchside, too, as the charity recognises his incredible dedication and support following his induction into the Foundation Hall of Fame.
Finally, after the final whistle, all match worn shirts from Foundation Day and the Derby away fixture will be signed and auctioned on the club website. All proceeds will go directly to The Albion Foundation to support them in achieving their goals in the local community.
Foundation Director Rob Lake said: “We wanted to find a way that we could let all Albion fans know more about what we can do for them, and how they can help us, while also giving something back to them by creating a brilliant atmosphere and visual as the players come out of the tunnel.
“We’re encouraging everyone to ‘Get Behind the Badge’ and the team with this show of support and togetherness.
“Our goal is simple - to create a place where everyone is active, feels a sense of belonging and can thrive on and off the pitch.
“We want to create a proud Albion family that is engaged and inspired to achieve its potential, making a measurable difference in our local community. We invite all supporters to ‘Be Part of the Family’, starting this weekend.”
