Being a Reading Football Club supporter isn’t just a personal choice; it’s a family tradition passed down through generations. My love for the Royals runs deep, and it’s a passion that started long before I was born, thanks to the unwavering support of my family.
A Family Legacy
My journey as a Reading FC fan began with my great-grandfather, who was a season ticket holder, instilling a love for the club with my grandfather. This tradition was carried on by my father, who has been a season ticket holder since the age of five. With such a strong legacy, supporting Reading FC was almost inevitable for me; it’s a family affair that spans generations.
The first match I ever attended was against Burnley on February 13, 2016, a game that ended in a 0-0 draw. I was just a year and three months old, attending as a guest of Lady Sasima, one of the club’s directors at the time. That day marked the beginning of my lifelong journey as a Royals supporter.
A Special Connection
One of the most unique aspects of my connection to Reading FC is my relationship with Ibrahima Sonko, a former player who serves as my ‘proxy’ godfather. Although the term ‘proxy’ is used due to religious reasons, Sonko’s role in my life is more than honorary. He has always been a guardian figure, providing support and encouragement from afar. My father also has a strong connection with Shaka Hislop and Antony Rougier, of whom he is still in regular contract.
Taking Up the Mantle
In 2018, I inherited my grandfather’s season ticket seat after he passed away. Sitting in that seat, I feel a profound connection to my family and our shared love for the club. This seat is more than just a place in the stands; it’s a symbol of our family’s enduring support for Reading FC.
I’ve held a season ticket for six years now, experiencing the highs and lows alongside fellow fans. The sense of community and camaraderie in the stands is something truly special, and it’s a big part of why I cherish every game day.
Growing with the Club
In addition to being a regular at matches, I have been an active member of the #ReadingFC #YoungRoyals for four years. This program has provided me with unique opportunities to engage with the club, from meeting players to participating in exclusive events. Being part of the Young Royals has deepened my connection to the club and allowed me to make friends who share my passion for football.
For the past two seasons, I’ve also served as a Junior Ambassador for Reading FC. This role has been incredibly rewarding, as it allows me to represent young fans and have a say in how the club interacts with its supporters. Being a Junior Ambassador involves attending meetings, providing feedback, and helping to enhance the matchday experience for young fans. It’s a responsibility I take seriously, and I’m excited to continue in this role for another season.
Involvement in the Community
My involvement with Reading FC extends beyond just attending games. I’m also a member of the Supporters Trust At Reading (STAR), an organisation that represents the interests of fans and works to improve the club. Through STAR, I’ve been able to engage in discussions about the club’s future, participate in community events, and contribute to initiatives that benefit both the club and its supporters.
A Lifelong Commitment
When people ask me how long I’ve been a supporter of Reading FC, my answer is always the same: “a lifetime.” This isn’t just a phrase; it’s a reflection of the deep-rooted connection I have with the club. From my earliest memories to my current involvement as a Young Royal, Junior Ambassador, and the Junyor Royals Reporter, Reading FC has been a constant presence in my life.
Supporting Reading FC isn’t just about following a football team; it’s about being part of a larger family. It’s about sharing moments of joy and disappointment with fellow fans, celebrating victories, and standing together in defeat. It’s about the stories passed down through generations, the friendships formed, and the collective hope for the future.
As I continue to grow, so does my commitment to the Royals. Whether it’s cheering from the stands, contributing ideas as a Junior Ambassador, or simply sharing my love for the club with others, I’m proud to be part of the Reading FC community. And while the club has seen many changes over the years, one thing remains constant: the unwavering support of its fans, including myself.
It was only last season, through my close link with the Dave Kitson Academy, that I was able to invite Dave to help train the team I play for. As a centre back, Dave was also able to provides some excellent 121 tuition. Dave is somewhat of a Reading legend
In conclusion, my journey as a Reading FC supporter is not just a personal experience; it’s a family tradition that spans generations. It’s a story of loyalty, community, and a lifelong passion for the beautiful game. And as I look to the future, I know that my love for Reading FC will only continue to grow, just as it has for my father, grandfather, and great-grandfather before me. Here’s to many more years of cheering for the Royals, both on and off the pitch!
