Veterans to realise dream with match at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light | OneFootball

Two veterans sides will take to the Stadium of Light this month as Sunderland AFC Washington Supporters Branch Veterans face Whitnash Veterans from Leamington Spa.

According to Sunderland Echo, the fixture is booked for 3.30pm on Sunday 31 May, followed by a post-match meal at Quinn’s Bar. The teams will run out to Republica’s Ready to Go, with Wise Men Say before kick-off.

Local headteacher Jonathan Blower, 53, organised the occasion after moving to the city in 1995 to train as a teacher and developing a deep affection for SAFC. While leading a special needs school he spoke with a club contact, then emailed the club and secured the slot.

Blower knew players at Whitnash from his Midlands upbringing and contacted a member of Washington’s over-40s to set up the game.

He described it as a dream come true for everyone involved, including the visitors, with squads made up largely of players in their 40s and 50s. Several have suggested it could be their final match.

Blower recalled switching allegiance from supporting Manchester United as a child after a taxi driver handed him his first ticket for Roker Park during his university days. He remembers the noise around the Peter Reid promotion era with Niall Quinn and Kevin Phillips, and later chose to return to Sunderland after qualifying.

He said hiring the pitch cost £6,000, which he considers money well spent for a once-in-a-lifetime chance.

Source: Sunderland Echo