On December 14th, 2024, the Reading Football Club opened its doors at the SCL Stadium to welcome the youngest members of its fan community for a very special event: the annual Junior Royals Christmas Party. Traditionally held at the team’s training ground, this year the festivities moved to the prestigious Premier Suite at the SCL, offering an exciting new atmosphere for everyone involved. Throughout the day, families, staff, players, and special guests united under one roof to celebrate the holiday season, their shared love of football, and the values that bind the Reading FC community together. The result was a memorable, family-friendly celebration filled with laughter, games, treats, and cherished moments that will be remembered by all who attended.
A New Venue and a Warm Welcome
For many Junior Royals, the Christmas party is one of the most anticipated events of the year. In previous years, the gatherings took place at the club’s training ground, allowing young fans to meet players in a more casual, behind-the-scenes environment. This year’s decision to host the event within the SCL Stadium’s Premier Suite added an extra layer of excitement. Walking into the stadium—usually reserved for match days and big-game energy—felt special, as if the venue itself was dressed up to welcome the next generation of supporters. The familiar hum of the concourse was replaced with holiday music, friendly chatter, and the soft glow of festive decorations. Giant snowflake cutouts, red and green streamers, and twinkling fairy lights lined the halls, setting the perfect mood for a seasonal celebration.
At the entrance, families were greeted by a team of smiling staff members and volunteers who checked them in, ensured everyone received their special event wristbands, and guided them upstairs to the Royals Suite. Parents balanced excitement with curiosity, while children—clad in their Reading FC shirts, scarves, and Santa hats—bounced with eager anticipation. The sense of community was palpable. Some families knew each other from attending previous Junior Royals events or from seeing familiar faces in the stands on game days; others were new members experiencing their first taste of what it means to be a Junior Royal. Regardless of their background, everyone had come together to celebrate, connect, and revel in the joy that the holiday season brings.
Meeting the Team Behind the Scenes
Upon reaching the Royals Suite, guests were welcomed by some of the friendly faces who help make the Junior Royals program such a success. Jackie Evans, HR and Operations Director, and Laura Cooke, along with other dedicated members of the Reading FC staff, were on hand to ensure the afternoon went smoothly. They greeted each family personally, stopping to chat with parents and children alike. This gesture of inclusivity and warmth reinforced the values that Reading FC holds dear—supporting not only the professional side of the club but also nurturing the next generation of fans who will carry on its traditions.
The staff’s presence and attentiveness helped children feel at ease and excited about the festivities to come. For many young fans, simply being inside the stadium outside of a match day setting was a thrill. The Premier Suite, often associated with VIP guests and special occasions, was decked out with festive centerpieces and holiday-themed table settings. Some tables were arranged for families to sit together, while others were reserved for the various activities planned throughout the day. Parents appreciated the thoughtful organization and the personal touches that made the event feel welcoming and sincere.
A Festive Feast and Tasty Treats
One of the first delights that greeted the Junior Royals was a tempting spread of festive comfort foods. Each table was set with plates and cutlery, awaiting the arrival of a casual holiday feast. Soon, the aroma of warm pizza, crispy chips, gooey mozzarella sticks, and savory sausage rolls drifted through the suite. This buffet-style arrangement allowed everyone to serve themselves at their leisure, chatting happily about their favorite players, recent matches, or holiday plans as they piled their plates high. The club had clearly put thought into providing a menu that would appeal to younger palates while still satisfying parents—a sure way to kick off the day on a high note.
After the savory delights, dessert arrived in the form of creamy ice cream. Children’s eyes lit up at the sight of these treats, and the sound of delighted laughter soon echoed through the suite. The atmosphere was a far cry from the tense concentration of a match day; instead, it felt like a family gathering, with staff, parents, and children exchanging smiles, stories, and anticipation for what was still to come.
Party Games and Prizes: Pass the Parcel Fun
To keep the energy flowing, the organizers planned a series of interactive games. The highlight for many was a lively round of “pass the parcel.” Children gathered in groups, forming circles around piles of festively wrapped packages. Holiday music filled the room, and as it played, the kids passed parcels from one pair of eager hands to the next. Each time the music stopped, the child holding a package excitedly tore away a layer of wrapping paper to discover a small Reading FC related surprise inside.
These surprises were no mere trinkets; instead, they were thoughtful Reading FC-themed gifts that reflected the club’s pride and heritage. From scarves and keychains to pens and notebooks adorned with the team’s crest, each child took home a piece of Reading FC that would remind them of this special day. My prize was a lovely Reading FC notepad and pen, promising to use it at school to write down their favorite match moments or draw pictures of their football heroes.
The simple act of playing pass the parcel helped break the ice among children who had never met before. New friendships were formed as parcels changed hands and laughter replaced any initial shyness. Parents, seated at the edges of the circles, smiled approvingly, happy to see their children bonding over a shared love of football and the joy of the season.
Meet and Greet with the Players
No Junior Royals event would be complete without the chance to meet some of the players who inspire young fans week in and week out. This year’s party brought together three special guests from the Reading FC squad: Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan, Kelvin Abrefa, and Jamaican international goalkeeper Coniah Boyce-Clarke. As the players entered the suite, the atmosphere changed from festive chatter to hushed awe and excitement. Children stared wide-eyed at their heroes, some too shy to speak at first, while others enthusiastically asked for autographs and pictures.
The players, each known not only for their athletic prowess but also for their approachability and kindness, took their time with every child. They answered questions about their training routines, offered words of encouragement, and teased upcoming matches. Many of the young fans were curious about what it felt like to step onto the pitch, how to handle pre-game nerves, or what foods helped fuel their favorite players before a big game. In turn, the players asked the children about their own experiences: Which position did they like to play in their school team? Who was their favorite footballer of all time? These conversations created meaningful connections between the young fans and the professionals they look up to, reinforcing the idea that the Junior Royals are very much part of the Reading FC family.
Parents looked on with pride, snapping photos as their children stood next to their sporting idols, decked out in Reading FC kits. Many would cherish these moments as precious memories—tangible proof that dreams can come true, even if just for an afternoon. In a world where footballers can sometimes seem distant, this intimate meet-and-greet reminded everyone that players and supporters share a bond built on mutual respect, admiration, and a love of the game.
Kingsley, Princely, and a Surprise Santa Visit
The excitement didn’t end with the players’ arrival. Reading FC’s beloved mascots, Kingsley and Princely, soon made their grand entrance, bringing waves of laughter and applause. These cheerful characters, dressed in their familiar royal blue outfits, immediately engaged the crowd. They posed for photos, offered high-fives, and signed autographs with their giant cartoon hands. The younger children were particularly delighted, treating the mascots like old friends who had come to join the celebration.
Just when it seemed the day couldn’t get any more festive, a surprise guest arrived: Santa Claus himself. The room erupted in cheers and squeals of delight as Santa stepped into the suite, his red suit contrasting beautifully against the blue-and-white decorations. He carried a sack filled with Cadbury Selection Boxes for every Junior Royal in attendance. Children gathered around, each taking their turn to receive a treat and whisper their Christmas wishes to Santa. For many, it was a surreal combination—meeting football players, club mascots, and Santa all under the same roof. The magic of the holidays and the excitement of being part of the Junior Royals culminated in a single, unforgettable moment.
A Different Match Day Perspective
Following the indoor festivities, it was time to settle in and watch the match. Instead of sitting in their usual family section seats, the Junior Royals were taken to a special viewing area located in the corner between the West Stand and the visiting supporters. This unique vantage point offered an entirely fresh perspective, both literally and figuratively. Watching the players take to the pitch, the children could now appreciate the match from a new angle—one that allowed them to observe the rhythm of the game, the interplay between offense and defense, and the passionate reactions of opposing fans.
Sitting with other Young Royals, children swapped stories, shared opinions on the players’ performances, and even learned new chants that echoed through the stadium. Parents joined in, discussing tactics, line-ups, and the future direction of the club. While results on the field can’t always be predicted, the sense of unity and pride in the stands reminded everyone that football is about more than just the final score. It’s about the shared experience—supporting the club through ups and downs, forging friendships, and passing on traditions from one generation to the next.
During the match, many of the Junior Royals and their parents recognized each other from the event’s earlier activities or from previous games and what was nice was that many also recognized me as the Junior Royals Reporter, mentioned following my social media channels—X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and the my website’s blogs—and praised the coverage that keeps them connected to the team and its community initiatives. This sense of familiarity, even among supporters who had never formally met, highlighted the notion that the Junior Royals and their families truly form a large, extended family within the Reading FC community.
Reflecting on a Memorable Day
As the final whistle blew and the crowd began to disperse, attendees reflected on the experience. The day had been packed with activity: meeting staff members who dedicate their time to nurturing the next generation of fans; enjoying a delicious festive feast; playing party games and winning team merchandise; chatting with players; meeting the mascots; receiving a special gift from Santa; and finally, watching the match from a new perspective. Despite the outcome of the game, the atmosphere remained positive. Everyone understood that supporting a football club is about loyalty, perseverance, and making memories along the way.
Gratitude was abundant. Parents thanked the organizers for their hard work and thoughtful planning, children bubbled with excitement about the gifts and autographs they collected, and the club’s representatives beamed with pride at having strengthened the bond with its youngest supporters. In particular, Jackie Evans, Laura Cooke, and Tim, along with the rest of the Reading FC team, deserved credit for orchestrating an unforgettable event. They had proven that the Junior Royals are not just season ticket holders or a demographic to be catered to, but an integral part of the Reading FC story—a story that will continue to unfold in the seasons to come.
The Spirit of the Junior Royals
The Junior Royals Christmas Party at the stadium showcased what makes this community so special: passion for football, commitment to youth engagement, and the desire to create meaningful, lasting traditions. The smiles on children’s faces and the gratitude of their families served as powerful reminders that the sport’s true magic lies in its capacity to unite people. Whether it’s the thrill of seeing the pitch from a new angle, the joy of interacting with players, or the simple pleasure of sharing a meal and a laugh, these moments reinforce the notion that everyone belongs in the Reading FC family.
By nurturing these relationships, the club not only secures a loyal fan base for the future but also enriches the lives of young people who will carry the club’s values forward. Football teaches lessons about teamwork, determination, respect, and resilience—qualities that help shape well-rounded individuals. The Junior Royals program builds on these foundations, turning children who love the game into responsible, enthusiastic supporters who know the importance of community spirit, empathy, and pride.
Join the Junior Royals Today
If reading about this extraordinary Christmas Party has sparked your interest, now is the perfect time to join the Junior Royals. Becoming a Junior Royal means more than just receiving perks—it means being part of a community that values its young fans, invests in their experiences, and offers opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun. From meeting players and mascots to attending exclusive events and receiving cool merchandise, membership opens the door to a world of football excitement and holiday cheer that will last the whole year.
Ready to be part of the next generation of Reading FC supporters and experience the magic of the Junior Royals for yourself? Don’t miss out on all the fun, camaraderie, and seasonal surprises. Sign up today and start making memories that will last a lifetime.
Join the Junior Royals! Sign up here: https://bit.ly/4gxRV0c
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