Club 18/02/2025
Rivals United
At Raith Rovers, we take pride in playing a proactive role in our community.
Yesterday, alongside Dunfermline Athletic FC and Police Scotland, we were delighted to take part in the Rivals United initiative, an event aimed at tackling football-related youth antisocial behaviour and promoting positive values among young people.
Held at Pitreavie Training Ground in Dunfermline, the event brought together 110 pupils from schools across Kirkcaldy and West Fife for a day of football, education, and engagement.
The initiative targeted young people aged 12 to 17, encouraging teamwork, respect, and responsibility both on and off the pitch.
Through football training sessions and interactive workshops, participants had the opportunity to learn about crucial topics such as racism, anti-social behaviour, including the risks associated with pyrotechnics, and mental health awareness.
These discussions, led by officers from Police Scotland, aimed to educate and inspire, reinforcing the importance of making positive choices within the footballing community and beyond.
The event was made possible through collaboration with The Pars Foundation, Raith Rovers Community Foundation, Fife Health and Social Care Partnership’s School Nursing Service, Clued Up, and Active Schools Fife.
Each organisation provided vital expertise and resources, ensuring that young people left with valuable lessons not just about responsible behaviour at football matches but also about their overall wellbeing.
A highlight of the day was seeing our very own Ross Matthews, Jamie Gullan, Lewis Vaughan, and Finlay Pollock take to the pitch alongside Dunfermline Athletic’s Matty Todd to engage with the participants.
Their involvement created a unique and exciting experience for the pupils, reinforcing the positive messages of the event while allowing them to connect with professional players they admire.
We are proud to have taken part in the Rivals United initiative and look forward to continuing our work within the community to ensure football remains a sport that brings people together for all the right reasons.