Why Do Soccer Players Walk Out with Children?

Before every kickoff in the Premier League and across world football, players step onto the pitch hand-in-hand with young children. It is one of the sport's most recognisable images, but why do soccer players walk out with children at all?

TL;DR: Players walk out with children — known as mascots or player escorts — to connect with fans, promote family values, and symbolise the future of the game.

What Are Player Escorts Called?

These children are officially called mascots or player escorts. In the Premier League, clubs select junior mascots for every home match, drawn from academy players, season ticket holders, local schools, and charity partners. It is a prized experience for young fans.

Why Do Clubs Do It?

The tradition grew through the late 20th century and is now standard in major leagues. There are three main reasons:

• Community: Clubs use mascots to reward young supporters and build goodwill through partnerships with schools and charities.
• Brand: The images humanise players, generate great broadcast content, and help sell the family-friendly side of the sport.
• Symbolism: A child walking beside a star represents the future of football and keeps clubs connected to grassroots fans.

The FIFA Connection

Football's governing body has long supported mascot programmes. Through initiatives linked to FIFA's community programmes, children are given once-in-a-lifetime moments at major tournaments, reinforcing football's place at the heart of communities worldwide.

A Moment That Matters

For the child, it is unforgettable; for fans, it adds warmth before the tension begins. In today's digital age, fans love sharing these moments, debating mascots, and reacting to every detail of the match. That is exactly the kind of in-the-moment conversation fans crave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the children related to the players?

Usually not. Most are academy players, lucky young fans, or children from club charity partners selected for the match.

Do clubs get paid for mascots?

Many Premier League clubs sell mascot packages to fans, while others give places to community groups and academies.