A Lifelong Love Affair: How Aston Villa Changed My Life and Inspires My Passion
Nothing has held a more significant place in my heart than Aston Villa Football Club. From the tender age of eight, this club became my sanctuary, a beacon of hope during some of the darkest times in my life. Growing up, my relationship with Villa wasn't just about football; it was about survival, identity, and an unbreakable connection that has shaped who I am today.
Contents
Finding Solace in Claret and Blue
As a teenager, life was incredibly challenging. I battled through months of despair, feeling lost and without purpose. During those tumultuous years, it was my unwavering support for Aston Villa that kept me going. The club was more than just a team; it was a lifeline. Every match, every goal, and every victory gave me something to look forward to, something to cling to when everything else seemed bleak.
I remember countless conversations with players who became my heroes. Sammy Morgan, a legendary figure from the seventies, was one such player. Fans from that era know his iconic chant: “Six foot two, eyes of blue, Sammy Morgan’s after you…” I once shared a particularly tough moment with Sammy, revealing how my passion for Villa helped me cope. It might sound unusual, but knowing how Villa would perform in the next match gave me the strength to face the challenges I was up against.
Documenting a Rich History
My deep connection with Aston Villa inspired me to embark on what has become my proudest passion project. Over the past seven years, I have dedicated myself to documenting the club’s illustrious history through two comprehensive volumes: "Aston Villa: The First 150 Years Volume One (1874 to 1949)" and "Volume Two (1950-2024)." The release of the second volume coincided perfectly with the club celebrating its one and a half century milestone last month.
These books are not just a chronological account of games and players; they delve into the heart and soul of the club. One of my favorite stories includes a poem written by an unknown soldier during World War I, linking Aston Villa to significant historical events like the Battle of Bazentin Ridge. These details highlight that a football club’s legacy extends beyond the pitch, intertwining with broader historical narratives.
Aston Villa is more than the sum of its players and managers. It thrives because of its passionate supporters who breathe life into the club. For over 15 years, I’ve written various books capturing Aston Villa’s journey—from "In Safe Hands: Nigel Sims' Football Memories", recounting the 1957 FA Cup-winning goalkeeper, to "Uncatchable: Aston Villa’s Charlie Aitken Biography," honoring the player with the most appearances for the club.
A Heritage Worth Preserving
One of the most treasured possessions on my bookshelf is “Aston Villa: The First 100 Years” by Peter Morris. As a child, I memorized it word for word, engrossed in the club’s early triumphs. Now, having authored a volume that extends Villa’s history to 150 years, I hope to leave a similar legacy. While I dream of being remembered in the same way, I know I won’t be around to see Aston Villa reach its 200-year mark.
A Family Legacy
Born in Worcester in 1964, I am a fourth-generation Villa fan. My great-grandfather witnessed the club’s dominance, my grandfather saw the 1910 title win and the 1913 FA Cup triumph, and my father was part of the record-breaking 76,588 attendance at Villa Park in March 1946. My memories include attending my first game as an eight-year-old, with vivid recollections of the sights, sounds, and smells of that night match. Even after moving to Nottingham in 1970, my passion for Villa remained unwavering, as evidenced by my memory of a 1972 League Cup win against Coventry thanks to an Alun Evans goal.
Overcoming Adversity with Villa
Life wasn’t always easy. In 1973, our family moved to the northeast, and as someone with a southern accent and a relentless devotion to Aston Villa, I became a target for relentless bullying. The frustration I felt when Villa won points against formidable teams like Newcastle, Leeds, or Manchester United translated into a fierce determination to persevere. My love for the club provided the strength I needed to get through each week.
School was a battleground, especially with a PE teacher who was an Oldham fan. When Villa triumphed 5-0 over Oldham in April 1975, I used the victory as a form of resistance, running around the football pitch instead of giving in to intimidation. My dedication to Villa helped me endure the fear and eventually led me to skip school and work on a farm from the age of 13.
Triumphs and Personal Goals
Those early experiences taught me resilience and the importance of passion. When Ray Graydon scored the League Cup final winner against Norwich City the day after my 11th birthday, I made a vow to name my future son Graydon. Fulfillment of that promise came, even if it came with personal challenges. My second marriage ended when my wife declared she couldn’t compete with my love for Aston Villa—a testament to how deeply the club is ingrained in my life.
Despite setbacks and injuries that prevented my dreams of becoming a professional runner from materializing, my achievements with my books have brought a different kind of recognition. Beating Steve Cram in a 10,000-meter race in 1986 was a peak I reached through sheer determination, a trait I channeled into chronicling Villa’s history.
Embracing My Identity
At 48, I was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome, which shed light on the relentless bullying I faced and explained my exceptional memory for all things related to Aston Villa. Being on the autistic spectrum has been both a challenge and a gift, allowing me to retain extensive knowledge about the club and pour it into my writing. This unique ability has enabled me to create over a million words across nine books, each one a labor of love and dedication to a club that saved my life.
Sharing the Passion
Writing these books has not only been a personal journey but also a way to connect with fellow supporters. I know what drives fans, what memories resonate, and which stories ignite passion. Whether it's recounting the thunderous applause during a historic win or the quiet moments of reflection after a tough season, my books aim to capture the essence of being a Villa fan.
In addition to writing, I’m actively involved in community events like Match Day Meets at Silhill Brewery, where I have the pleasure of interviewing former Villa stars. Engaging with the community and sharing stories with other fans is a continuation of my commitment to preserving and celebrating Aston Villa’s legacy.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Aston Villa has been my anchor, my source of joy, and my refuge. The club’s rich heritage and enduring spirit have not only provided me with solace but have also inspired me to give back by preserving its history. Through my books and community involvement, I hope to honor the club that kept me alive and ensure that future generations of fans can connect with Aston Villa’s storied past.
As I look back on my journey, I realize that my life and Aston Villa’s history are intertwined. The club has given me purpose, direction, and a sense of belonging. In return, I’m committed to documenting and sharing this incredible legacy, ensuring that Aston Villa’s story continues to inspire and uplift others just as it did for me.
Join the Celebration
To celebrate Aston Villa’s 150-year milestone, both volumes of my project, "Aston Villa: The First 150 Years," are now available through Legends Publishing. These large-format, 420-page coffee table books are available individually or as a two-book box set. They’re not just books; they’re a tribute to the club that has been a cornerstone of my life.
You can also find me engaging with the community at Match Day Meets, where I continue to share stories and memories that bring Villa’s history to life. These events are a way to give back to the community that has supported me and to keep the spirit of Aston Villa thriving for years to come.
Final Thoughts
Aston Villa is more than a football club—it’s a family, a history, and a source of unwavering support. My journey with Villa has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my life, and I’m honored to contribute to its legacy. As we celebrate 150 years of greatness, I invite fellow fans to join me in honoring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to a future filled with more unforgettable moments.
Aston Villa, you saved my life, and it’s my privilege to pay you back by ensuring your story is told, remembered, and cherished for generations to come.
