The matchday programme has been a shared joy for millions for more than a century and in this ‘What It Means’ series we highlight the affection supporters hold for their collections…
At just 10-years old Jack Mott’s football programme collection may be in its infancy but that doesn’t mean it is any less cherished.
The Lichfield youngster adores his copies of the Aston Villa ‘News & Record’ from recent seasons, something that he started collecting after his beloved Claret and Blues beat West Bromwich Albion in the Championship play-off semi-final in May 2019.
Since then the Villa season ticket holder, who attends games alongside his dad Chris, has made sure he gets his treasured keepsakes without fail each time he attends Villa Park.
“I was gutted when Covid stopped supporters being able to go to games but I loved still being able to get the programmes through the post,” the youngster admits.
“I love to read about all the players and the manager’s notes at the front and I often go back and re-read them after the game because they are a memory.
“My favourite programme so far is the one against Manchester United on 15th January 2022 because it has Philippe Coutinho on the cover and he is my favourite player.”
Jack was delighted to bring his memorabilia up to date recently with the tribute cover edition to Queen Elizabeth II for the fixture against Southampton, something that will prove a standout in anyone’s collection for years to come.
