Tea, Biscuits, and Friendly Competition: The Retro Rovers Extra Time Sessions

Have you heard of Doncaster's Retro Rovers?

Retro Rovers Doncaster have been established since 2015. They are a club with members of an older demographic, who wish to continue their playing days albeit at a slower pace. They provide a warm friendly environment and welcome anyone who loves football and still wants to enjoy the game.

January 30th, 2025, Retro Rovers held their first ‘Extra Time’ session, which is where they come together to chat over tea and biscuits and play a bunch of games (which gets quite competitive!). I joined them in their first session and immediately, I felt very welcomed - every single member was so friendly! I played snakes & ladders, had my first game of shuffleboard, and was mentored by a very talented gentlemen who taught me to play pool like a professional! Towards the end of the session, I had the opportunity to interview Jan Milner, the wonderful lady who runs Retro Rovers. I asked her a range of questions about the journey of the Extra Time sessions for Retro Rovers.

The idea for these sessions stemmed from the success of their existing football clubs, inspiring them to expand their efforts and create something more. However, they wanted a dedicated venue to host these extended sessions and the Church View Community Centre in Edington proved to be the perfect place for it. With a venue secured, the next step was to create an engaging and welcoming environment that would encourage people to attend. Jan observed that as the sessions took shape, bringing in games and having that relaxing, friendly atmosphere helped participants feel more at ease. This approach not only made the sessions more enjoyable but also encouraged individuals to open up. Eventually, people became more likely to come together and trust one another.

"We hope to develop our group to suit the needs of our community and its residents while offering new and different activities in a safe and welcoming environment”

Retro Rovers is set to have a positive impact on people’s mental health by providing a welcoming space where individuals can connect and build meaningful relationships. The group’s playful and friendly atmosphere ensures that everyone feels comfortable from the moment they arrive. For older individuals who may not often have the opportunity to get out or see others, Retro Rovers offers a much-needed sense of companionship and engagement. Beyond personal connections, the group helps revive a sense of community, bringing people together in a way that fosters support, joy, and a shared appreciation for nostalgic fun. One of the residents who attended the first extra time session shared that she "Finally has something to look forward to."

This was incredibly heart-warming to hear. Retro Rovers was granted the Community Investment Fund to support their group, providing them with funding for things such as the equipment and games needed for the sessions, as the sessions would address improving lifestyle choices, keeping people active, support social and mental wellbeing, which met the criteria for the fund. One of our fabulous Well Doncaster officers, Georgia, supported Jan with the funding application which she was then successful with! Jan found the support for the funding “Brilliant” – we were thrilled to hear this!

“The Panel felt that this was a good use of Capital Funding specifically to such a local grassroot organisation doing so much good in the community. The fact that they were using an underutilised premises and that they were looking at walking activities that the older generation would be able to join in with.”

-Panel of the CIF Funding

For the last question, I asked Jan for some words of encouragement for anyone looking to attend a group like Retro Rovers but are unsure if it’s right for them. Or maybe they are a little scared to take that first step.

For anyone unsure about joining, the question to ask is, “What’s the worst that can happen?” The hardest part is simply walking through the door—something that can feel daunting at any age. However, once inside, everything becomes easier. The sessions welcome both watchers and doers, with the hope that, over time, those who start by observing will feel comfortable enough to take part and fully engage in the experience.

The Well Doncaster Team congratulates Jan and Retro Rovers in their successful journey so far, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for Retro Rovers!

Find their Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1386859968948701/