Young football fans in Lincoln are buzzing with excitement following Lincoln City FC's recent promotion to the Championship. The team secured their spot in the second tier of English football for the first time since 1961 after a thrilling 2-1 victory against Reading on Easter Monday, capped off with a dramatic 96th-minute winning goal. This achievement has inspired many young supporters in the community, as reported by BBC Lincolnshire.
Nine-year-old Finley, who is currently participating in the Lincoln City Foundation's holiday club, expressed his aspirations, saying, "When I grow up, I'm going to be on that team and I'm going to do the exact same." Finley and his friends are not only fans but also beneficiaries of the foundation, which provides various activities for children, including football sessions.
The excitement among the children was palpable, especially the day after their team’s historic win. Eleven-year-old Alfie, who watched the match in his grandad's living room, shared his rollercoaster of emotions during the game. "When Reading scored to equalise, I thought it was hopeless," he recalled. However, the moment Jack Moylan scored the winning goal sent him "bouncing off the walls going ecstatic."
Alfie noted that the players’ positive attitudes are a significant part of the team's strength. "The players are so nice. They give their shirts to the little kids just to remember them," he said, highlighting the connection between the team and its young fans. Inspired by their role models, Alfie dreams of a future in football, whether as a player, referee, or in another capacity.
Louis, another 11-year-old fan who has held a season ticket since he was three, attributed the team's success to their teamwork. "They never get down on each other. They're always positive and always trying to bump each other up," he said. This sense of camaraderie resonates strongly with the young supporters.
Finley also expressed his belief that the team deserves their success, confidently stating they are going to "smash" the Championship next year. He reflected on their journey, saying, "I think that they've come all this way and spent seven years in League One. They should be in the Premier League at this rate."
Brittany Bell, operations manager at the Lincoln City Foundation, praised the players for being invested in their community. "They're really good role models," she said, emphasizing the positive impact the team has on local children. The players' engagement with their young fans not only inspires them but also fosters a sense of belonging and pride in the community.
As Lincoln City FC prepares for its new chapter in the Championship, the enthusiasm among its young supporters is a testament to the power of sports in bringing people together. The community eagerly anticipates what the future holds for their beloved team, and the next generation of fans is ready to cheer them on every step of the way.