News & Events

After an incredible 37 years of dedicated service, we are announcing the retirement of our esteemed colleague, Eric Randerson, from Club Doncaster Sports College and The Foundation.

Eric has been an integral part of the Foundation since its earliest days, contributing tirelessly to our growth, our community work, and the lives of countless people across Doncaster. His passion, commitment, and unfailing belief in the power of community sport have helped shape who we are today. Eric’s impact will be felt for many years to come, and we are deeply grateful for everything he has given to the organisation.

We will be formally celebrating Eric’s remarkable service at our community fixture in the new year, where we hope many of you will join us in recognising his achievements and wishing him well in his retirement.

Eric commented:“After 37 years with Club Doncaster Foundation and Doncaster Rovers, it’s time to hang up my boots. I retire with a deep sense of gratitude.

I’ve had the privilege of working with some truly wonderful colleagues who have supported me in delivering football, health, and fitness sessions to the Doncaster community.

I’m proud of what we have achieved together, but even more grateful for the friendships, support, and memories along the way. Thank you to everyone who has shared this journey with me.”

Foundation CEO, John Davis, commented: “Eric was instrumental in the development and growth of this Foundation, and it has been an absolute privilege working alongside him during my time here.

There are not many people I meet across Doncaster who haven’t got a story about how Eric has supported their sporting journey, so his legacy is far-reaching.

We look forward to our community fixture, where we will be formally recognising Eric’s incredible service to our charity and the Doncaster community.”

We are sure that many people would like to congratulate Eric on this incredible milestone and thank him for his exceptional contribution over nearly four decades and those that wish to can still reach Eric on his Foundation email address until he formally leaves his role in the new year.

We’ll confirm further details of the plans to mark his incredible service in the run-up to our community day fixture in early 2026.

Club Doncaster Sports College Welcomes Back the Class of 2025

Club Doncaster Sports College proudly welcomed back members of the Class of 2025 as special guests at the Rovers vs. Stockport County fixture, celebrating their outstanding achievements from the previous academic year.

Alumni were invited to enjoy the matchday experience as a thank you for their hard work, dedication, and contribution to the Sports College. Staff were on hand to greet returning students, catching up on their onward journeys into employment, higher education, and new opportunities.

The visit also featured a well received treat of Domino’s pizza, giving former students the chance to relax, reconnect, and share their post-college stories.

The college extends its congratulations once again to the Class of 2025 and looks forward to seeing the impact they continue to make in their next chapters.

Higher Education Takeover Day Inspires Year 13 Learners at Club Doncaster Sports College

University Campus Doncaster delivered their annual Higher Education Takeover Day for Year 13 BTEC Level 3 learners last week, showcasing the outstanding facilities and opportunities available at the High Performance Centre (HPC). The partnership between the Sports College and University Campus Doncaster allows pathways for students looking to study degrees in sport and has seen Club Doncaster Sports College and University Campus Doncaster combine expertise to deliver specialist sports degrees in a ‘live sporting environment’.

Students took part in a range of practical performance activities, including fitness assessments, strength testing, and reaction time challenges, giving them a real insight into how university level sport science and coaching programmes utilise cutting edge equipment to enhance athlete development.

Throughout the day, learners also heard from Head Lecturers Josh Wroot and Mark Ellames, who provided an engaging overview of what it’s like to study as an undergraduate at University Campus Doncaster. They discussed course expectations, academic support, placement opportunities, and the vibrant student experience that awaits those progressing into higher education.

Programme leader for Sport Health & Exercise Science, Josh Wroot commented, ‘The takeover days are a great way for us to give the students a taste of life at University Campus Doncaster. It gives the students an opportunity to talk to lecturers and our current students to really help them decide on their future studies’.

The event aimed to support students in planning their next steps while offering a first hand look at the professional level environment available within the HPC. The hands-on sessions and expert guidance were extremely well received by learners, many of whom left feeling motivated and informed about continuing their studies in sport.

Club Doncaster Sports College would like to thank the UC Don staff for an inspiring and informative takeover day that highlighted the exciting pathways available for our aspiring professionals.

To apply or find out more details about Club Doncaster Sports College, visit www.clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk or call 01302 764663.

Premier League & FIFA Referee Darren England Inspires Club Doncaster Sports College Students

Club Doncaster Sports College was proud to welcome Premier League and FIFA referee Darren England to the Eco-Power Stadium this week, where he spent time speaking with our students about his remarkable journey to the top of the professional game.

Darren, who has officiated on some of the biggest stages in European and domestic football, offered a rare and insightful look into the realities of life as an elite referee. He shared stories from his early days in grassroots football, the dedication required to reach Premier League level, and the unique highs and challenges that come with making key decisions under pressure in front of thousands of fans.

Students were given the opportunity to hear first-hand about the mindset, preparation, and professionalism needed to succeed at the highest level. Darren spoke openly about the responsibility of managing the game, the importance of resilience, and how every experience, positive or difficult, has shaped his career.

Beyond his on-pitch experiences, Darren also encouraged students to consider the huge variety of pathways available within football. Whether pursuing roles in coaching, analysis, sports science, officiating, media, or club operations, he stressed that the sport offers opportunities for everyone with the passion and drive to persevere.

Assistant Principal, Ben Thompson said:
“We’re extremely grateful to Darren for giving up his time to speak with our students. Hearing from someone operating at the very top of the game is incredibly motivating, and the insights he shared will support our learners as they develop their own aspirations within sport.”

We’d like to thank Darren once again for visiting Club Doncaster Sports College and helping inspire the next generation of football professionals—both on and off the pitch.

Club Doncaster Sports College recently received a generous donation of last seasons’ home and away kits from Doncaster Rovers Academy, ahead of the new academic year.

Alongside academic studies, students attending the Sports College have the opportunity to play competitive fixtures as part of the CEFA leagues (Community & Education Football Alliance) against other colleges and clubs from across the country.

Representing Doncaster Rovers in both the male and female categories, the donation of last seasons’ kit will ensure that all competing teams will be on brand ahead of the new season.

Speaking of receiving the kits, Assistant Principal, Ben Thompson said: “The Sports College are delighted to have been donated both the home and away playing kits from Greg Carroll & Paul Green, from the Academy.

“Our Football Academy team can represent the Sports College and Doncaster whilst being on brand for the new EFL CEFA season.

“It highlights the amazing relationship we have with the professional clubs within Club Doncaster.”

Paul Green, U18’s manager, spoke of the relationship between both the Academy and College, “We want to continue to support the Sports College and the students and continue to build on the fantastic relationship we have across both club and charity.

“There’s been a number of academy players who have studied with the Sports College alongside playing for the U18’s, so if we can continue to support the Sports College in a number of ways, with things like kit donations, alongside their support for us, it will benefit both of us in the long run.

“We wish them the best of luck for their new season ahead.”

Are you in Year 11 and want to study at the heart of professional sport? Get involved in the EFL CEFA league? Applications for 26/27 season are now open! Apply at clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk/apply/ or contact us on 01302 764663.

The Sports College are delighted to announce that applications are now open for 2026/27. Year 11 students can apply today.

Club Doncaster Sports College are delighted to announce a 100% pass rate across all sports qualifications this year.

112 students, aged 16-19, contributed to the results which capped another exceptional year for the Sports College based at the Eco-Power Stadium.
Many of the Level 3 BTEC Sports Coaching and Development graduates will continue their studies by progressing onto university with the College, studying specialist sports degrees at the stadium, in partnership with University Campus Doncaster.

All second-year Level 3 Health and Fitness students attained qualified Personal Trainer status as part of their courses.

Principal, Adi Turnpenny said “Once again, we are absolutely delighted with the results which reflect the hard work of all the students.

“It is another outstanding year for the College, of which, our incredible staff are extremely proud.”

“I’d like to wish all graduates the best of luck in the future, and we look forward to welcoming our new students and those returning to us in September.”

Alongside their studies, students have had some great experiences including: a trip to Whitby as part of the Elevate programme, educational visits to the Etihad Stadium and the National Football Museum in Manchester, as well as a day hosting their counterparts from Central Coast College, Australia.

Graduating student Oliver Adams said “”I’m delighted with my results and am grateful for the support the College has given me.

“They have helped me develop as a coach, including arranging a work placement with the Rovers Academy, which has led to employment with them.

“I am now moving on to the degree programme and I couldn’t be happier with the position I’m in.”
It caps a wonderful year for the Sports College who picked up a Community Award at UCDon’s graduation ceremony in October and won the Partnership of the Year Award for their work with UCDon at the Doncaster Business Awards in December.

Applications for academic year 26/27 will open in September.

Alongside all academic programmes, students have the opportunity to represent Doncaster Rovers FC and Doncaster Rovers Belles FC in approved EFL Leagues, gain experiences with the Dons RLFC, and enjoy a host of other sports.
To apply or find out more details about Club Doncaster Sports College, visit www.clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk or call 01302 764663.

Club Doncaster Sports College Student Council: A Year of Achievement and Impact

In a year defined by initiative, teamwork, and meaningful contributions, the Club Doncaster Sports College Student Council has achieved remarkable success both within the college and in the wider community.

One of their standout improvements was enhancing the student experience by upgrading the Common Room. Thanks to their efforts, the space now includes new equipment and a club-standard darts setup, offering students an opportunity to play one of the fastest growing sports in the UK.

The Council played a key role in planning and improving three major CDSC events: the Christmas Cup, the annual Varsity, and the Form Cup. Their input helped ensure each event was inclusive, competitive, and engaging for all involved.

Club Doncaster Sports College run a minimum of one academic trip each year, the Student Council took the lead in selecting two exciting and educational trips—to Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium and the National Football Museum. These outings offered students the chance to explore the history, business, and culture behind football and linked into their vocational curriculum.

At the 2025 Varsity tuck shop, they raised £150, which will go directly back into future Student Council projects. Over Christmas, members of the Student Council coordinated a food collection for the Doncaster Foodbank, their chosen charity for 2024. This was supported further by a Christmas Jumper Day which raised £50, all of which was used to buy even more essential supplies for Doncaster Foodbank.

Topping off another excellent year, the Student Council helped the Foundation earn top marks from Doncaster Council during a meeting to assess its ‘Child Friendly Status’. Inspectors were impressed, particularly by the professionalism and engagement of the students involved in the Student Council.

Tutor and Student Council coordinator, Kyle Croft said, ‘Overall, this has been a fantastic year for the Student Council in terms of impact and engagement within the Sports College. The Student Council allows the learners to have a voice and make decisions which directly improve their learning experience as a student at Club Doncaster Sports College.’

On July 4th, staff and students came together for the annual Sports College graduation evening at the Eco-Power Stadium, to celebrate another incredible academic year. They celebrated the end of the 2024/25 academic year with a 2 course meal, a look back on the achievements from the year and concluded with an awards ceremony and live music from local band, Whats’erface, whose line-up features two Sports College students.

First up on the awards ceremony, were the awards for the player of the season within the academy teams. Matthew Dunn won the Development Squad Academy player of the season, with Nathan Lee being named CDSC Men’s Academy player of the season for the first team.

Ruby Burke obtained the Women’s Academy player of the season, with Connor Pollard-Logan receiving the player of the season for the Men’s Academy second team.

Awards were also given out for student of the year for each form group and both English and Maths qualifications. Take a look at the list of winners below:

Student of the Year Awards:

Year 12 Level 2 (Kyle’s Form) – Bailey-Rae Woolley

Year 13 Level 2 (Will’s Form) – Josh McLean

GCSE English – Kian Lewis-Derbyshire

GCSE Maths – Caden Hadley

Year 13 Level 3 (Courtney’s Form) – Lewis Potter

Year 13 Level 3 (Emma’s Form) – Lauren Carr

Year 12 Level 3 (Joe’s Form) – Nathan Lee

Year 12 Level 3 (Emily’s Form) – Faith Kelliher

Year 12 Level 3 (Dave’s Form) – Emily Wilton

Whitby Tour Men’s Outstanding performance – Jamie Stead

Whitby Tour Women’s Outstanding performance – Megan Irving

Commitment to excellence award Men’s – Alistair Breckell

Commitment to excellence award Women’s – Lauren Carr

Alongside the academic learning, students enjoyed a range of experiences and trips throughout the year. From educational stadium tours at Manchester City’s Etihad Museum and the National Football Museum, a fantastic resident to inspirational talks from Doncaster Rovers players & management and annual football events such as Varsity, Form Cup and Christmas Cup.

Sports College Assistant Principal, Ben Thompson, spoke about the academic year, saying: “As staff, we are very proud of our learners and their achievements throughout this academic year.

“The learners have been exemplary when they have represented the Sports College, both on and off the pitch and we hope that their experiences as well as their academic achievements will set them in good stead.

“The Sports Dinner and Awards evening is always a great opportunity for the students to reflect on a year of hard work and development and allows us to honour their achievements.”

Applications for the Sports College are still open for the 2025/26 academic year, however, the Sports College is employing a reserve list. Applications for the 2026/27 academic year will be opening up later on this year. Keep an eye out on our social media channels for the announcement.

If you want to take a look at the courses that are on offer at the Sports College and take a look at the prospectus, you can visit www.clubdoncastersportscollege.co.uk.