Become a Bradford City player for a day (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Become a Bradford City player for a day

6:50am Monday 13th February 2012 in Sport By Simon Parker

Wayne Jacobs will be one of the team managers on City's 'Play it like a Pro' day

City fans have the chance to follow in the footsteps of their heroes at Valley Parade – and boost the coffers for the club’s youngsters.

The club’s youth development fund will benefit from an end-of-season match involving supporters.

Wayne Jacobs and Ian Ormondroyd will manage two squads of fans for the game on Saturday, May 12.

And the participants will get the full match-day treatment as if they were playing for the first team.

Organiser Billy Bingham said: “We were looking at different ways to raise money for the development departments.

“The Soul nights have gone well but were getting a bit tedious and people wanted something different.

“We’ve called this Play it like a Pro and it’s exactly that. We’re after 32 fans to pay £150 to play in the game and they will be treated just like the professionals.

“They will wear City kit and if time will allow it get their names on the back of the shirts. The scoreboard will be up and running and the players will come out to music – it will be like a typical Saturday afternoon match.

“Wayne and Ian are going to be the two managers and we’re also looking to involve the likes of John Hendrie, Dean Windass and David Wetherall for guest appearances.”

Afterwards, the two squads will have a meal in the 1911 Club and there will be an awards ceremony to present the trophy to the winning team and name the man of the match.

Jacobs and Ormondroyd will then take part in a question-and-answer session.

Bingham added: “We think it’s a fantastic opportunity if you’re a supporter. You can live the dream by playing at Valley Parade like you were in the City team.”

Places are on a first-come, first-served basis and can be booked on 01274-706836. Alternatively contact the club and ask for Sandra Oram.