The Boy who United Football...

All around the world, footballers are loved and adored by people of all ages. They are idolised, admired and hero worshipped. Their names are printed on the back of replica kits, so that young boys and girls can imitate their heroes.

In an age, where the top players can earn millions of pounds for simply kicking a ball around, they also take on a responsibility for those that love them. One such player who took his responsibility as a role model to another level, was Jermain Defoe. At the match between Sunderland and Everton the Premier League, a young boy named Bradley Lowery met his hero – the star striker Defoe. That moment, Defoe went further than most footballers meeting mascots. The footballer and the young fan made a friendship which united football fans and people in general, with the love which was clearly apparent between the pair.  

Bradley had been fighting a battle with a form of cancer named Neuroblastoma since he was 18months old. Having beaten the disease once, he was in remission for a number of years before it returned in 2016. His family battled and campaigned to raise vital funds to send him to the US for life saving treatment, but they were given the heart-breaking news that his illness was terminal. So the family vowed to continue to fundraise, and make a foundation in Bradley’s name, to help with the fight for other families affected. Part of the fundraising campaign included Bradley becoming a match day mascot at his beloved Sunderland football club, where he would meet his favourite player Jermain Defoe.

Bradley led the team out on multiple occasions, always holding Defoe’s hand. At times when he was clearly feeling weak, Defoe would carry the little boy in his arms. In the match against Chelsea, he was photographed with the team, and scored a goal which won the ‘Goal of the Month’ competition on the iconic show ‘Match of The Day’. Sunderland players visited Bradley in hospital, with one instance the little boy falling asleep cuddling his hero in bed. Other football clubs and fans offered their support, with Everton donating £200k to the fund to fight for his life, and he was a mascot for them in their match against Manchester City, wearing a Sunderland shirt with ‘Thank You Everton’ on the back.

Coinciding with Defoe’s recall to the England national side, the Football Association invited Bradley be a mascot for the national side. Captain Joe Hart stepped aside and invited Defoe and Bradley to lead the team out at Wembley Stadium. During this time, some beautifully poignant photographs were taken, of Bradley shielding his ears from the noise of the 90,000 crowd singing the national anthem, and turning to hug Defoe. Defoe states that this was a huge honour, and something which was truly special for him in his football career.

After the news broke that Bradley wouldn’t be able to win this fight, Defoe attended his birthday party, and continued to give love and support to the boy and his family, and continued his hospital visits.  

As a father, the story continues to choke me up. To see the love that was genuinely shared between the two is humbling. The way that Bradley looked at Jermain; it was a form of escapism for him. I wonder if Defoe will ever truly know the effect that his love, time, generosity and friendship had on Bradley and his family. Bradley pulled on the heartstrings of the nation. His smile was infectious, and the photos and videos that appeared of him in the football environment, showed a boy who for those moments forgot his was deeply ill. He was able to be the star for a short time, removed from the days spent in hospital. Defoe often said he felt the matches were more special knowing Bradley was in attendance. I am sure for Bradleys family, any time Jermain was able to give to Bradley, was every so more special seeing their little boy's eyes light up once again. Any parent would do anything to take away the pain, and for those moments, I am sure Defoe was able to do that for them, and help their son. It truly brings tears to your eyes to listen to the way Defoe spoke about the friendship. It was real. It wasn't because the PR team at the club told him to do so. It was raw love, raw emotion, raw human instinct in wanting to love and help someone.

Bradley sadly died on July 7^th, surrounded by his loving family. Social media accounts of footballers and football clubs offered their condolences and best wishes to the family. After Bradley passed away, Defoe tweeted: “Goodbye my friend, gonna miss you lots. I feel so blessed God brought you into my life and had some amazing moments with you and for that I'm so grateful.  I'll never ever forget the way you looked at me for the first time, the genuine love in those cute eyes. Really finding it hard to express what you mean to me.”

Thousands of mourners lined the route to his funeral, where attendees including Defoe, wore football shirts, with his name on the back, with a message on social media that Football Had No Colours, meaning the football world would come together to remember this brave little boy. His favourite superheroes were in attendance, and balloons were released to the sky.

Although there are hundreds and thousands of gravely ill children around the country who do not get the level of attention that Bradley received, Bradley was able to raise awareness for many of them. His legacy will inspire many people and his foundation has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds, which will go into helping those families. Events are being hosted in his honour, including a celebrity football match at Everton’s Goodison Park ground. Additionally Sunderland donated a corporate box for each match to a family who are going through these struggles, so that the ill child can have this great experience.

To make a contribution visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/bradleylowerysfight

In a time where astronomical figures are being spent for footballers, with their earnings and responsibilities in the spotlight, when compared with more everyday life hero's such as those in the Emergency services, it is great to see the human side of the sport. 

Such love, such compassion, such emotion, such support.

RIP Bradley. 

You touched the nation with your strength and your smile. You united football fans throughout the country. My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with your family, friends and your 'best mate' Jermain Defoe, the hero who showed us his human side.

In a world full of City's and Uniteds...

I stated in a previous blog entry hat it was summer 1990, when I was seven years old, when I first fell in love. I fell in love with a game. I fell in love with football. There were two players in particular who held my affection that summer. Star striker Gary Lineker and the man the rest of the nation fell in love with – the supremely talented - Paul Gascoigne.

Gascoigne and Lineker celebrating the '91 Semi Final win.

Unbeknown to me at the time, both players played for the same English club side – Tottenham Hotspur. Upon finding out this information, my seven year old mind was made up, I was to become a fan of Tottenham Hotspur Football club. 

In a world full of City's, Uniteds and Rover's... There is only one Hotspur..

Living in South London, I should have been a fan of Millwall, Charlton or Crystal Palace, but Lineker and Gascoigne were at Tottenham, and therefore it was in North London that my allegiance belonged, and White Hart Lane where I wanted to go more than anything.

This season marks the last year that Tottenham will play at White Hart Lane, before we leave for a year to allow for our futuristic new stadium to be built on the site of the existing stadium. Although the prospect of moving into our new stadium is extremley exciting, it is also tinged with some sadness. It made me think of my first experience of the place we have called home. 

In December 1990, my Dad took me to my first game at White Hart Lane. Despite not being a  football fan himself, he had secretly managed to obtain two tickets to the upcoming Tottenham vs Sunderland match. I remember the day that my mum collected me from school, and during the walk home, told me that my Dad had bought us tickets. I don’t think I had ever been so excited. 

I was up early, and we headed to Tottenham in the car. Dad parked around the corner from the ground, we were there early and we headed towards the stadium. I remember the feeling I felt as I saw White Hart Lane for the first time, and remember being scared of the turnstile as I handed my ticket across. Then that was it. I was in, and was part of it. I was in White Hart Lane and ready to cheer as loud as I could.  As we took our seats in the second row of the East Stand Upper, I couldn’t believe it. There was Gary Lineker, Paul Gascoigne and the rest of the first team warming up below us on the pitch. 

I still remember the sound of the crowd, the feel of the ticket in my hands, the smell of the stadium, and the buzz that I received from being among the 30,000 crowd. The game didn’t start well; we were two down within twenty minutes or so. We scored two in the second half, but going into the last minute we were losing 2-3, until my idol Gary Lineker popped up with a last gasp equalizer. The fans around us went crazy and I was picked up by someone who wasn’t my dad in the euphoria. Quickly back down to my feet, Dad decided it would be time to go to beat the crowd. 3-3! What a game! I was hooked. 

 

Despite finishing mid table in the league, Tottenham ended that season with a trophy, after a great run in the FA Cup, beating Arsenal at Wembley en route to the final. Both of my heroes scored in that semi-final, Gazza with one of the best free kicks in the history of Wembley, and Lineker netting twice. The final against Nottingham Forest will be remembered for Gazza being stretchered off, but for me it was much more than that. It was the launch of our new Umbro kit, which led to ridicule for the long shorts, (which would soon become the norm) which would be the first Tottenham kit I would own, and it would be for our courageous captain Gary Mabbutt lifting the trophy, next to the late Princess Diana in her green jacket. 

Gary Mabbutt lifts the FA Cup infront of The Royal Box.

I had been spoilt with my first year of being a Spurs fan. But things were going to change. Little did I know that with I wouldn’t get close to the elation of that season again until some twenty five years on. Within twelve months of the FA Cup glory, we had finished 15^th, Gazza had been out injured all year, and Lineker was on his way to finish his career in Japan. Soon Gascoigne signed for Lazio, and my heroes were no longer Spurs players.

Despite seeing my heroes depart, I was hooked on Spurs, and in the coming years Teddy Sheringham and Darren Anderton quickly became firm favourites of mine. Those years that followed the ’91 success were tough for Spurs fans. The new Premier League era had arrived, and Sky dishes became more popular, which meant I was able to watch more live football than ever before. But there wasn’t too much to get excited about. I occasionally got to go to White Hart Lane, usually during pre season where tickets were cheaper.

"Taxi for Maicon" - Gareth Bale destroying the Inter Milan full back

Since then Spurs fans had to endure years of disappointment, aside from two League cup victories, there hasn’t been too much to cheer. There was a brief resurgence under Harry Redknapp, who led us into the Champions League with a great team and style of football, Gareth Bale emerged as a superstar, and rose to prominence throughout Europe in a team that included stars such as Ledley King, Luka Modric and Rafael Van der Vaart.

It is not until last season, where Spurs had a run at the title before falling away in the last few weeks of the season, that fans felt a huge connection with the club in all aspects. With the new season in its infancy, Tottenham fans are once again optimistic, we are a young exciting team, who are working for eachother and it seems all involved including fans are pulling in the same direction. The young generation have new heroes, with Dele Alli and Harry Kane being at the forefront.

Alli and Kane - the heroes to a new generation of fans.

My dad and I didn’t attend many matches together over the years, and if we did go to watch football, we would go to the sporadic game or two at The Den or The Valley, due to the local proximity. I think we only went to one more match together at White Hart Lane in the intervening years, which was David Howells’ testimonial in 1997. 

I doubt that I will get another chance to attend a match at White Hart Lane with my Dad, with this year being the final year at the ground and at a reduced capacity, and Dad’s lack of interest in the game. He only went to games in order to put a smile on my face as a child. As I grew older I was able to go on my own or with friends, so there wasn't a need for him to attend with me. It is a shame, but he still went out of his way to ensure that I experienced something that i loved. Even if he wasn't particularly interested himself. He enabled me to have that special day, which has lead to a lifetime memory. I will certainly do that for my son. As we prepare to say goodbye to White Hart Lane, I will do so thanking my dad for allowing me to be in that number!

With the new season, we are delighting to see Spurs returning to the Champions League, and returning to Wembley. For a minimum of three games, we will play at Wembley against elite level opposition. We can see the new and improved White Hart Lane starting to be built, and its completion is coming in the next few seasons, I am optimistic that I will be able to provide my son with the excitement and anticipation of taking him to see Spurs in action as he gets older.

Why people love The Walking Dead...

*This blog may contain spoilers - if you are not up-to-date*

This weekend saw the first ever European #WalkerStalker convention, at London’s Kensington Olympia exhibition centre. An exclusive convention for fans of the huge hit The Walking Dead.

Walker Stalker is a Comic Con-style event designed for hard-core fans to get up close and personal with their favourite cast members. Stars of the show took part in panels, photo calls and autograph signings. Fans were able to meet their hero, meet likeminded people, and bask in all things TWD!

Many fans queued for hours to gain access the event, with different entry packages available, ranging from the general entry fee of £36 per day, ranging to £1000 for the Platinum VIP package.

Over twenty stars of the series to date were in attendance, with fans paying an additional fee (ranging between £30 & £85) for a few moments of the star’s time and a signature. Further experiences such as panels with the stars, merchandise and Photo opportunities came at an additional expense. 

Walker Stalker Con - London - Kensington Olympia

As the doors officially opened at 10am, the public rushed to fill the venue. The way that people ran into the arena reminded me of people who run into concerts and festivals - wanting to get to the front of the stage to see their favourite band.

In the case of WalkerStalker, fans were running so that they could line up to meet their hero. Queues starting forming around each star's station within the venue. People queued for hours. I saw one lady break down when it was finally her turn to meet Melissa Mcbride (Carol) – clearly overcome with emotion at meeting the actress of the character that she clearly relates.

Viewing figures for The Walking Dead here in the UK are very high, with the audiences watching live or on demand continuing to grow with each series. I personally think this is due to the human element of the show. It allows you to think 'How would I react in that situation?' You can decide which character portrays the reaction you think that you would have. The characterisation in TWD is a key component, with fans really routing for their favourites. When the ‘Glenn’ cliffhanger occurred in Season 6 part A, fans need to know if he was alive or dead. They really cared. Also, fans have taken to the way that ‘Carol’ has evolved over the six seasons. From a character we thought would be eaten pretty soon into the programme, she is now a major player and fan favourite, with a huge part to play as the new season continues every Monday at 9pm on FOX.

Maybe deep down as humans, we are drawn to the violence and barbarity of the show. It tugs as our animal instincts - we want to see the strong survive. Perhaps we truly have become desensitised to the blood and gore, with both men and women alike watching TWD. 

Some may watch for the horror zombie aspect, whereas other people will watch for the characters and dilemmas which occur. Are you more like Rick or Morgan? Where does your moral compass fit into the show? Many watch waiting to be be easily shocked at the ruthless way key characters can be killed off at anytime.

I also think that people who are invested in the show, having been with it for 6seasons, have clearly discussed it with friends. With the chance to download the full series 1-6 box set on SKY in the UK, people can catch up easily. This is not something that would have been possible previously unless you outlaid serious money for the DVD box set Many people will engage with social media as they are watching the show. Despite being scheduled against strong oppostion on a Monday night, the show regularly is among the top trending hashtags on twitter in the UK. #TheWalkingDeadUK. People want to communicate the emotions that they are feeling, as they witness the show live. Many seem to offer a running commentary of their thoughts and emotions. This all plays a part of linking the fan with the programme. They are really part of a Walking Dead family. This family want to connect with each other and talk about what is happening. Walker Stalker was a great chance for fans to do just that.

Ross Marquand 'Aaron' interviewed behind the scenes.

Additionally, TWD doesn’t seem to be ending anytime soon. Not unless the writers get bored and suddenly decide that there is a miracle cure for the Zombie apocalypse, which aslong as it is making money, will not happen. TWD will continue to evolve.

The thing that struck me about the event was the diverse range of people who were attracted. It wasn’t just full of typical ‘comic book geek’ types as on attendee identified himself, it showed the how far reaching TWD has become. People of all abilities, shapes, and sizes were in attendance, hoping for a glimpse and a few moments of time with their favourite character. People who had never attended a convention before, were attracted to this event, however I am not sure whether the full extent of the expense that was ahead of them would have been known. To get the full experience you certainly needed to have deep pockets. Meeting your heroes wouldn’t come cheap.

Left - Michael Cudlitz (Abraham) Right - Cosplayer Chris Twellmann

Another aspect of the event was the Cos-Players. People came dressed as their favourite characters, or even as the Walkers themselves. There were plenty of people dressed as ‘Rick’ in their Sheriff’s outfit. People even dressed as ‘Carl’ – with his fresh eye damage. The most popular costume was of course ‘Daryl’, and there were some really good ones, alongside some that were not so good. But the effort was clear to see.

One that stood out for me was a cosplayer portraying Abraham (Michael Cudlitz) - he was amazing. I saw social media posts, where fans actually thought that they had taken a selfie with Cudlitz himself.

I decided to have a look online, and see how many people were duped, and there were lots. I then stumbled on the guys Instagram, and he is a full time cosplayer for this character. Whether or not he is making a living from this I am unsure, but regardless, he looks awesome. I suspect he was brought in by the convention organisers.

Highlights of #WalkerStalkerCon

The biggest pull of the event was the confirmed attendance of two of the biggest stars, Norman Reedus and Andrew Lincoln. Reedus was given a rockstars welcome when he entered the arena, with crowds screaming for him. Queues to meet him on the Saturday stretched for hours, and he was charging £85 ($120 US) for an autograph, in which no selfies were allowed. To attend a panel for both stars was another additional cost.

It is worth noting, this event sold out way in advance. All photo ops were also sold out way in advance. Queues for every star there stretched around the arena. People were literally going crazy to meet their hero. In my opinion, the experienced convention goers would have loved this event. However if this was your first one, then chances are you may not return. The organisers could have laid on more for those people not blessed with enough spare cash or prior knowledge for the additional extras, as the cost of the ticket only got you through the door.

The Walking Dead, Season 6 Part B, continues every Monday @ 9pm on FOX UK.