The Mythical City
Story: Boy, Man, and Footballer-MarkBrereton
The story goes that when Stanley Matthews was a boy he regularly visited my grandmothers’ family plant nursery to play football. Stanley went to the same school as my grandmother and he visited the nursery to play and generally hang out. The field where he played was mainly used for growing and the uneven surface always gave a challenge for running and controlling the ball. This now seems a far removed contrast with todays footballing profession and training.
Stanley was born on February 1st 1915 in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, began his professional career in 1931 and became a well-known player and character throughout the Stoke City team, the city, the profession and the world.
I’d now, really like to do a photographic portrait of the current Stoke City Football team in this field. Not only would it be a great artistic photo shoot for the team and fans but also play an interesting part of social history for the city and the club.
Of course, the field has changed a lot over time and it’s no longer used for growing or farming. It’s almost become a natural untouched space with beautiful wild trees and daffodils. It now feels like a genuine tribute to Stanleys first unprofessional home ground.
No Comments
Leave a Comment