Hi I’m Verity. Blackburn Rovers WFC and Lionesses fan and ardent LGBT+ advocate and supporter. I’m a teacher at a specialist school by day and enjoy running, reading and spending time with my lovely wife in my free time. The rise of the women’s game has especially been really inspiring to me and it’s so pleasing to see a marked improvement in raising equality across all areas of diversity and culture in football – something that I know Blackburn Rovers do really well. I’m proud to be a Rovers fan and proud to support the LGBT+ community.
What was your first Blackburn Rovers match, and what was the experience like?
Back in 1994 aged 10, my primary school took us on a trip to Ewood Park for a stadium tour and to watch a match. I’ll never forget having my photo taken with the Alan Shearer waxwork they had, wearing my much too big Rovers shirt! That (along with collecting the Panini stickers) sealed the deal for me.
Who is your favourite ever Men’s player from Blackburn Rovers, and why?
The 94-95 season is so special to everyone for so many reasons, so players from that squad come to mind. I always liked Stuart Ripley. He had a fantastic career at Rovers. And that flash of white blonde hair too!
I still keep an eye on Jordan Rhodes at Blackpool and of course, local lad David Dunn will always be a Hyndburn legend.
Who is your favourite ever Women’s player from Blackburn Rovers, and what makes them special to you?
It’s got to be Georgia Stanway. One of three Rovers Women who have gone on to become Lionesses, there’s something about her style of game and skill with the ball that makes her stand out to me.
Who is your favourite current Men’s player from Blackburn Rovers, and what qualities do you admire in them?
Predictable, but I like Sammie Szmodics. He’s a little pocket rocket (I’m taller!) of energy and drive. I also keep my eye on Lewis Travis. I like his influence as Captain.
Who is your favourite current Women’s player from Blackburn Rovers, and what makes them stand out in your opinion?
Keeping with the captain theme, I love Jade Richards’ style. She’s a solid, calm presence on pitch and brings a steady stability to the team throughout the match. Faith Nokuthula is absolutely tenacious and never gives up. She’s incredible to watch too and completely inspiring. Her battery doesn’t seem to run low!
Can you share your greatest moment as a Blackburn Rovers supporter? What made it so memorable for you?
Although I was just a young kid, Rovers winning the Premiership in 1995 is seared into my memory. I wasn’t at the match, but I was glued to the teletext for score updates! Being a football fan inevitably has its highs and lows, but knowing that feeling of being at the top gives hope to feel that again one day.
