Sunderland AFC fans enjoy open training day

The open training session today gave supporters the chance to cheer on first team players as they were put through their paces by manager David Moyes and his backroom staff.

SAFC fan Julie Judson from Southwick, brought along eight young supporters from the Salvation Army to enjoy the day.

She said: “Our children are aged between three and eight and they are all Sunderland fans.
“I think that, for some of them, it is the first time they have been to the stadium.

She added: “I heard about the event towards the end of last week on Facebook and decided to bring them along.

“There is a great atmosphere here today and it is something different for them to enjoy.”

During the event fans also had the chance to enjoy a range of activities including and inflatable target shootout and face painting.

Also at the ground was father Steven Doolan, from Sunderland, who brought along his son Kenzie, 10.

He said: “It is great. We are long-time Sunderland fans, so a day like this is something different for the kids to enjoy.”

Dan Taylor, from Penshaw, had brought along sons Oliver, five and George, seven.

He said: “We heard about the event and, as we are massive Sunderland fans, we wanted to come along.

“I have been a Sunderland supporter for 26 years, so it is great to see the club connect with fans and there is a great atmosphere.”

Marie Barker, from Southwick, was with sons Jay Corbett, six, and Michael Douglas, nine.

She said: “I decided to bring the family along as it is something different.”