On Wednesday afternoon, Joe Ackroyd, Amir Ariely and Aiden Marsh visited Athersley Rec to assist with a touch of handiwork.
As part of our ‘Back to our Roots’ campaign, created to help clubs within the local area both financially and aesthetically, the trio donned their overalls and set to work painting the perimeter railings that run around the edge of the pitch at Sheerien Park.
For every 1,000 season tickets purchased by Reds supporters ahead of the 22/23 campaign, £1,000 is donated to a grassroots side by the Club to help with the overall running costs.
“When we kicked off the season ticket campaign two or three months ago, we made a pledge to grassroots football clubs that we’d come when the time is right and help them get ready for the new season,” said Barnsley Football Club Marketing, Commercial and Business Director, Andrew Clark.
Overseeing proceedings at Rec, of course, was Pete Goodlad, who was thrilled to see the Reds in attendance ahead of the new season.
“I’d like to say a big thank you to Barnsley and its members and football players for coming down and helping us out,” he stated. “Every club at our level needs volunteers themselves, but also, it’s nice to know that Barnsley, as a club, are taking more interest in the local community.”
Young striker Marsh, who scored his first professional goal at the end of last term against Preston North End, added: “I think it’s nice just to give back to the community. Obviously, these local grassroots teams are a big part of Barnsley – not just Barnsley Football Club – so, it’s nice to come down, show your face and help out.”
Fellow academy graduate Ackroyd, who made his senior debut against Barrow AFC back in January said: “Barnsley Football Club is a massive part of the town, but so are clubs like this – it’s what keeps it running. For us from Barnsley to be able to come down to our local grassroots club and muck in and get our hands dirty, it’s nice for us as well.”