Sent in style to Coventry
A WASPS-MAD family were given a chance to meet their heroes after winning a competition, in a day they described as “a dream come true.”
A training ground tour was the prize for winning the competition and 11-year-old winner Imogen Baker even had the chance to meet and chat with her favourite player Ashley Johnson.
Imogen’s parents Jenny and Richard, and siblings Thomas and Emily, were all able to join her as they were treated to an insight into a day in the life of a Wasps player.
The Baker family have been Wasps season ticket holders for six years and travel up to the Ricoh Arena in Coventry from their home in West Drayton, near Heathrow airport.
After the tour, they had a chance to ask questions to Wasps stars Frank Halai, Phil Swainston and fan-favourite Ashley Johnson.
The family were also treated to lunch in the Broadstreet clubhouse and stayed to watch the team’s afternoon training session.
Richard Baker, Imogen’s dad, said: “The day has been absolutely fantastic, it has been a real treat, a once in a lifetime opportunity.
“We were all so excited for Imogen when she won the competition, the day has been fantastic for her and for the whole family to enjoy this special day.
“We’ve been following Wasps since when they played at Adams Park, getting the chance to see how it all works behind the scenes has been truly incredible... a dream come true for the whole family.”
In addition to the tour, Imogen will also have the opportunity to walk out with the players as a match-day mascot when Wasps take on Saracens at the Ricoh Arena on Saturday, May 6.
The winner of the Wasps Christmas card competition was announced at half-time during the Christmas Eve clash with Bath.
Verity Brown, Wasps’ community development manager, said: “It was fantastic to see her beaming smile as she went round the training facility and when Ashley came to speak to Imogen it was a really special moment.
“I hope the whole family had a day they’ll never forget and it will be great to see them all again for the Saracens game later this year.”