Ahead of the 2025/26 season, I took the initiative to redesign Watford FC's Junior Hornets Activity Booklet, a free matchday publication for young supporters. Recognising that the previous offering had become dated, my goal was to create a highly engaging, interactive piece to better connect with a new generation of fans and elevate matchdays at Vicarage Road.
The redesigned booklet featured refreshed quizzes and activities, an interactive matchday squad list, and bespoke fold-out posters.
Alongside establishing the publication's visual direction, I developed a flexible format that could be updated and customised throughout the season. I designed and produced every edition, creating new activities, updating content and designing a unique poster.
While I worked closely with editorial colleagues to refine content and with the wider design team for development, the creative direction and day-to-day delivery of the booklet sat with me.
The project began with a new suite of Harry the Hornet illustrations, including Harry recreating Odion Ighalo's iconic celebration. These assets gave the publication a more distinctive visual identity while providing greater flexibility throughout the season.
A key focus of the redesign was rethinking the activities and quizzes. I moved away from traditional trivia towards interactive challenges tailored to younger supporters. Throughout the season, I designed custom activities that helped fans engage with the club's history and players in a fun, accessible way.
I also redesigned the squad list, transforming it from a static information page into a matchday companion. Supporters could track key moments, record the final score, and create a personal record of the match.
Each edition featured a bespoke fold-out poster celebrating key players, moments and milestones.
The flexible visual system also allowed the booklet to evolve around key club moments and campaigns. Special editions were produced for the Elton John Special Edition Kit launch, the EFL and Panini sticker collection launch, and Graham Taylor Matchday, each featuring bespoke artwork, tailored activities and custom posters.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the project was seeing supporters actively engage with the publication on matchdays. Fans completed activities before kick-off, collected posters throughout the season and even had players sign their booklets.
The redesign contributed to an enhanced junior supporter experience, helping the club achieve a Silver Award in the EFL Family Excellence Scheme after receiving Bronze Awards in the previous two seasons. The Junior Hornets Activity Booklet was highlighted as a contributing factor.
Photography: Ben 'Dusty' Rhodes & Alan Cozzi Editorial: Dan Palmer & Tom Wicks Design: Luke Burford, Jaden Haynes, Jemima Godwin, & Niall Walsh