There’s something special about football on a Saturday afternoon. The energy in the stands, the roar of the crowd, and the suspense of every tackle and goal – it’s all part of what makes the game so loved. For VIP Education, last weekend was about more than just the football. On Saturday, we had the pleasure of stepping into the spotlight as Match Day Sponsor at Vale Park, where Port Vale took on Mansfield Town.
And what a match it was! A hard-fought 2-1 victory for the Valiants made the day even more memorable, but the true highlight for us was the chance to be part of the incredible match day experience that Port Vale delivers so well.
As Match Day Sponsor, our afternoon began with a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium – a rare treat for any football fan. We wandered through the heart of Vale Park, soaking in the atmosphere before the stands filled with supporters.
The standout moment? Visiting the home dressing room and meeting the players ahead of kickoff. Getting to see the preparation, the camaraderie, and even the pre-match nerves up close made us feel connected to the team in a way that you just can’t get from the stands. It’s these unique opportunities that make the Match Day Sponsor package such a brilliant experience.
Just before kickoff, we were invited pitch-side for the official pre-match photo alongside the team captains and referees. Standing on the grass of Vale Park, with thousands of fans ready for the action to begin, was nothing short of unforgettable. It’s a small detail, but one that makes the Match Day Sponsor experience so unique – and one we’ll definitely remember for a long time.
Of course, being Match Day Sponsor comes with one responsibility that sparks a bit of debate: picking the Man of the Match. Let’s just say our choice had fans talking! Football thrives on opinions, and we enjoyed being part of the conversation – even if it was a slightly controversial decision. We stand by our pick, and it added to the excitement of the day.
For VIP Education, supporting Port Vale goes beyond football. Sponsorship is our way of investing in the local community, building connections, and celebrating the values of teamwork, resilience, and passion – qualities we also promote in the schools and young people we work with every day.
Being Match Day Sponsor each season is always a privilege. It’s about being part of something bigger: a club that brings people together, creates lasting memories, and gives back to its supporters. From start to finish, Port Vale made us feel welcome and valued, which is why we’ll always look forward to the next opportunity.
As the final whistle blew and the Valiants sealed their 2-1 win over Mansfield Town, we left Vale Park buzzing – not just from the result, but from the whole match day experience. Our thanks go to everyone at Port Vale for their fantastic hospitality and to the fans for making the atmosphere so special.
We’re already counting down to next season, when we’ll proudly step up again as Match Day Sponsor. Until then, we’ll be cheering on Port Vale from the stands, supporting the team every step of the way.
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