News

A group of inspirational guests facing serious illness and life-changing challenges were given a day to remember today thanks to the Rangers Charity Foundation as they met men’s and women’s first-team players at a special Dream Day event at the Rangers Training Centre.

The visit brought together 11 individuals and their guests who are navigating incredibly difficult circumstances, offering them a chance to step away from daily treatment or struggles and experience something truly uplifting. It was a chance to create lasting memories.

Players took time to chat to the guests, share stories, and listen. For many of the visitors, meeting their heroes in such a personal setting was something they had only ever dreamed about.

Roseanne, 57, from Cumbernauld said:

“I have waited my whole life to come here and I never thought I would see the day and everyone has been fantastic. It’s an honour to get to meet everybody. It really has been a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

Rangers Men’s First Team Manager, Derek McInnes, said:

“It’s only a little contribution from us but it makes a big impact for the guests. It’s really positive and it makes you consider everything. Obviously we all get down with results and every day life but these people are battling every day.

“There are varying degrees of illness and hardship and speaking to them is quite uplifting when you see how positive they remain and what comes across really is how important today is for them. But it’s equally important for us as a club and a staff to throw our arms round them and just give them a good day and experience.”

After the signing session, the group enjoyed a lunch in the Members Lounge followed by a special tour of Ibrox Stadium, walking through iconic areas including the tunnel, dressing rooms, and pitchside.

Rangers Women’s Manager, Leanne Crichton, reflected on the impact of the visit:

“It’s such a special day for everybody associated with the club. Both the men’s and women’s first teams are desperate to be part of it and share their time. We know our fans are the nucleus of the job but I think when you meet people like today, you understand their troubles and yet they have smiles on their faces.

“It gives you a real perspective and our girls in the group are really down to earth and humble so they never take for granted the job that they’ve got and experiences they get to live daily. So I think it’s important just to take that little bit of time out your day, take a step back and listen to their stories – and speak about Rangers as well because ultimately that’s the connection we all have.”

The Foundation’s Dream Fund pays for special Rangers experiences throughout the season for children and adults whose lives have been impacted by disability, serious illness, bereavement or other challenging circumstances.

Dream Fund experiences include our Behind The Scenes Dream Day at the Training Centre, Matchday Experiences, Dream Fund letters and much more.

Foundation Charity Executive Rachael Cosgrove, who coordinates Dream Day experiences, said:

“We loved meeting our Dream Day guests and making sure they could have this special experience during very difficult times. This is just something we can offer as a Club and Foundation as part of our Dream Fund to brighten up their days and give a bit back for their support.”

This season our Dream Fund has been generously supported by AS Scaffolding Ltd.

You can help make more dreams come true by donating to the Dream Fund here Donate – Rangers Charity Foundation.