Lincoln City Foundation hosted a special Military Families Matchday ahead of the recent Sky Bet League One clash with AFC Wimbledon on Friday 3 April, welcoming personnel and families from RAF Coningsby, Waddington, Digby and Cranwell.
The day gave fans of all ages the chance to enjoy a range of activities in the Poacher’s Den, including engaging STEM sessions, RAF air cadets displays and work experience insights for young people. Station commanders from each base attended, with Leanne Warner from RAF Waddington, Thomas Bone from RAF Coningsby, and Mark Bavin from RAF Digby were presented along with City director Harvey Jabara, his wife, Missy Jabara, the Foundation’s global patron, and their son Jaxon.
The Foundation also celebrated Lisa Lear, who is running the 2026 London Marathon to support the Foundation, and a pre-match presentation recognised her fundraising efforts and inspiring story. Fans can support her here: Lincoln City Foundation: Lisa's page.
The Military Families Matchday highlighted the strong links between Lincoln City, the Foundation, and the Armed Forces, showing how sport can bring communities together while offering education, career inspiration, and memorable experiences for all.
Alex Bavin, director of growth at Lincoln City Foundation, said: "The contribution from our RAF colleagues made a real difference to the matchday experience, with engaging STEM activities, valuable work experience opportunities, and the professionalism of the cadets all adding to a fantastic atmosphere.
Group captain Leanne Warner said: "These opportunities gave our younger fans a chance to learn in a fun and interactive way while gaining real insight and inspiration. We’re looking forward to continuing to develop our relationship with our Armed Forces colleagues, across all the Lincolnshire bases, and working together on future initiatives that bring our communities closer together."
"Events like this are a fantastic opportunity to showcase the strength of our partnership with Lincoln City FC and the Lincoln City Foundation. It’s about inspiring young people, supporting our military families, and showing how RAF Waddington is proud to be part of the local community."