He only came into the Club Shop for tickets and a brand new hoodie but young season ticket holder Joe Bryan left with a magical experience this afternoon after being invited into the annual Stevenage FC team photo!
12-year old Joe had come to the shop with family to buy tickets for tomorrow’s friendly with Coventry City and to purchase one of the smart new hoodies when in walked manager Graham Westley. The gaffer not only came out and spoke to Joe and signed his season ticket but also invited him out to be part of the annual team photo.
Sitting alongside the manager in the front row Joe looked as proud as punch as the photos were taken, but his experience didn’t end there. As well as getting all the players autographs Joe then had a kick-around on The Lamex Stadium pitch with Adam Marriott and Tom Pett before he and his family were given a ‘behind the scenes’ tour around the stadium.
Speaking after the photos Joe told us what it was like meeting Graham Westley, “It was fantastic. I was just trying on a hoodie in the shop when he arrived. He gave me a scarf and a programme and he signed my season ticket. It was quality to be in the team photo and I think we’ll play really well this season.”
Joe's mum Lin told us, “Joe can’t stop grinning. We didn’t know this was happening today, we just flew in for tickets for tomorrow! They’ve been season ticket holders for 5-6 years now and have chosen seats this year rather than the East Terrace."
She added, "We were supposed to be going on holiday tomorrow but we delayed it a day later just for the Coventry game, so we’ll go on Sunday instead.”
And it's good thing they did otherwise Joe wouldn't have had the unexpected surprise he had today!
Tickets for the Coventry game will be available on the cash turnstiles tomorrow afternoon. All tickets (whether seated or standing) are priced as follows:
Adults: £15
Concessions(60+, U22s, disabled, armed forces): £12
U18: £10
U12: £5