Saturday. Crown Oil Arena, 3 pm, it’s a very special day
We appreciate that pre season games are not on every person’s agenda, the nitty gritty of league combat is what its about for them, but this Saturday’s game, the last of the Friendlies, is not “just any game” it is special, its still about combat but to celebrate and remember a player who showed combative spirit and determination inspired so many and continues now to be a burning example for true gritt and engaging hope when times simply seem unbearable.
Saturday’s game against Man United under-21s is special because it’s to remember Joey T, one of our own, who we lost recently after a truly heroic fight against illness.
This game is dedicated to Joey T. We believe that Daleys will want to join us for our final friendly match to honour an exceptional individual whose spirit lives on within us all. Let’s support his family and friends in the best way we know how—by making some noise on that day!
Both clubs will come together to remember Joey, who meant so much to both Dale and United. A minute’s applause will take place before kick-off, whilst members of Joe’s family, who will be in attendance, are selecting some of his favourite music to be played in the build-up to the game.
The club have announced that Shirts from the match will also be auctioned off post-match, with proceeds going to Joey T’s Foundation when integrated.
For the younger fans who may not know the full Joey T history, he spent time in the Manchester United Academy as a youngster. They have recently introduced the Joe Thompson Award, which will be given to those who represent the values of a Manchester United person, like Joe did, displaying characteristics like resilience, honesty, integrity, humility, innovation and a relentless work ethic, with a focus on the community.
After joining Dale as a teenager, he went on to make over 200 appearances for his local team, becoming a club legend along the way. He scored several goals during his time with the team, but one goal stands out as our all-time favourite. It was so significant that the visiting Charlton fans stayed behind to applaud, despite their team losing. This memorable goal came ten minutes after the rest of the league had finished playing, and it not only secured Dale’s position in the league but also sent another local team down to a lower division!
We are informed that all future matches between the clubs will include a special trophy, with the first being the National League Cup match, which is due to be staged on 21st October at the Crown Oil Arena.
So all we ask is that we come together as Daleys and Football fans and remember a remarkable person.
We are grateful to the club for the use of the Joey T Game photograph