On a memorable Saturday afternoon, Reading FC academy graduate Tom Holmes bid an emotional farewell to the club and its supporters in a 3-2 victory over Blackpool. The final match marked the end of an era for the 24-year-old defender, who departs after a 16-year association with the Royals. It was a poignant moment for fans, and for me personally, Tom has always been a special player. His departure left me with mixed feelings—he was not only my favourite player but also someone with whom I shared many WhatsApp conversations. His hairstyle and position on the field were akin to my own, making his farewell even more significant.
A Heartfelt Farewell
Holmes, who joined Reading as a young boy and rose through the academy ranks, made his final appearance as a substitute in the second half of the game. His departure to Luton Town marks the end of an era for a player who has accumulated over 130 first-team appearances. The match against Blackpool was not just a game; it was a celebration of Holmes’ dedication and service to the club.
In a touching tribute, Holmes expressed his gratitude to the fans, saying, “I want to say thank you to the fans, not just for today, but for my whole time at Reading.” His words were filled with genuine emotion as he reflected on his journey with the Royals. “Thank you to the staff that allowed me to have that moment. I thought over the past couple of weeks that it might not turn out that way, so fortunately we managed to get the win and I managed to get on, so I’m full of emotions.”
Holmes was visibly moved by the support he received, describing the atmosphere as “packed out,” and he admitted, “There was a big roar from the crowd which I didn’t really expect. That will stay with me forever.” Seeing his family, friends, and loved ones in the stands was particularly poignant for Holmes, who cherished the support throughout his career at Reading.
A New Chapter Begins
As Holmes prepares to join Luton Town, he leaves behind a club that has been a significant part of his life. Despite moving to a new team, he remains deeply connected to Reading and will continue to follow the club closely. “It’s nice I can just go back to being a fan again,” he said. “Any chance I have to come to games, I’ve been there (Club 1871 stand) a few times this season.”
Holmes acknowledged the challenges the club has faced in recent years, noting the stressful period both for himself and the fans. “The fans have had a very stressful year, a very stressful last few years,” he said. “16 years at the club, there were quite a few tears. I’ll always be a Reading fan; it’s all I know, so they will forever be in my heart, and I can’t rule out coming back at some point.”
He also reflected on his time at the club with gratitude, mentioning his conversations with Tom McIntyre. McIntyre, who also had a significant career at Reading, had expressed regret at not having a farewell moment similar to Holmes’. “I’ve spoken a lot with TMac (Tom McIntyre) about the way he left and he’s upset he didn’t get to have a moment like I got to have today, so I’m very, very grateful for that,” Holmes shared.
Honoring Eamonn Dolan’s Legacy
Holmes’ departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Reading’s history. He and his peers were the last generation to be heavily influenced by the late Eamonn Dolan, a revered figure in the club’s history. “You could say it’s somewhat the end of an era,” Holmes noted. “We were the last generation of Eamonn Dolan’s influence, so it was fitting to have a moment in front of the Eamonn Dolan Stand to credit all of his work.”
As Reading FC fans, we have witnessed Holmes grow from a promising young talent into a stalwart of the team. His final game was a fitting tribute to his years of hard work and dedication. The emotional farewell not only celebrated Holmes’ contributions but also highlighted the deep connection between the player and the club.
As we look to the future, we bid farewell to Tom Holmes with heartfelt gratitude. His legacy at Reading FC will be remembered fondly, and his impact on and off the pitch will continue to be felt by supporters. While his journey with the Royals comes to an end, we wish him all the best in his new chapter with Luton Town and look forward to seeing him back at the Select Car Leasing Stadium as a fan in the future.
Thank you, Tom, for everything you’ve given to Reading FC, and also for me personally. You’ll always be a part of our Royals family.
