As a child, did you ever hold a dream that still resonates with you as an adult? For me, that dream was to become a member of The 92 Club, a prestigious group for football enthusiasts who have visited all 92 league football grounds in England. After 40 years, I finally achieved this longed-for ambition.
My journey brought me to Harrogate on April Fool’s Day, where I had the pleasure of witnessing the Sulphurites’ Easter 5-1 victory over Gillingham in League Two. To commemorate this special occasion, an old university friend who worked for the local tea company presented me with 1,000 tea bags.
Joining The 92 Club has been an adventure filled with excitement, challenges, and unforgettable experiences. From pitch invasions to breakdowns on the M6 after celebrating a goal by Paul Merson at Aston Villa, each moment has contributed to the rich tapestry of memories and experiences.
Keeping track of the stadiums I’ve visited and remembering where I still needed to go required a keen memory and a strong sense of integrity. Each ground provided a unique experience, from the atmosphere at Barnsley, Portsmouth, and Brentford’s old Griffin Park to the architectural wonders of Old Trafford, Stamford Bridge, and Anfield’s Shankly Gates.
Each visit was a special experience, from the warm welcome and delicious food at Stockport County to the sentimental significance of my trip to Oxford United. The challenges, such as the wrong turn to Colchester United’s old ground and the waterlogged pitch at AFC Newport, have become an integral part of my remarkable journey.
Starting this odyssey in the 1980s has given me a deeper appreciation for the changes in society and the game itself, evident in the mothballing and demolition of stadiums over the years.
In retrospect, my journey to join The 92 Club has been both nostalgic and thrilling, filled with remarkable memories, emotions, and experiences that I will continue to cherish for years to come.
As I reflect on my journey, I extend an invitation to dear readers to join me in supporting independent media like The Morning Star. By becoming a member of The People’s Printing Press Society or by making regular donations to the Fighting Fund, we can empower and sustain a vital source of independent news in today’s world. Let’s make a difference and support The Morning Star in their quest for honest journalism.