Sunderland chief launches two major new initiatives and explains what supporters can expect
Sunderland have announced two special week-long celebrations to honour both the history of the club and the service of many of its supporters.
‘Founders’ Week’, which will run from October 21st to 27th, will celebrate the club’s proud history and culminate in a ‘throwback matchday’ when Oxford United visit the Stadium of Light. The club have partnered with Beamish Museum ‘to deliver an interactive matchday experience for supporters of all ages’.
Sunderland will then celebrate the region and the club’s close connection with the armed force in ‘Heroes’ Week’ from November 4th to 11th, including at the home fixture against Coventry City on November 9th. A number of special events have been planned of which more details are due to be released, including an evening with SAS: Who Dares Wins stars Jason Fox, Mark Billingham, and SAFC fan Chris Oliver.
Sunderland’s Chief Business Officer David Bruce said: “We wanted to create two themed weeks this season to celebrate what makes our city and Club so special, and to connect with our communities and fans.
“Founders’ Week will honour our Club’s 145-year history, highlighting its significance to people around the world. The second week, Heroes’ Week, celebrates the deep connection between our region and our armed forces, paying tribute the service men and women who mean so much to Sunderland. Our ambition is to share the Club’s story with a new generation, whilst forging a close bond and bringing new experiences to our loyal supporters. We hope each year we can build on these ideas and continue to champion the many unique people and qualities that make our Club and city unlike any other.”
Pundit tells Sunderland fans why they’ll love Aaron Connolly, and why opposition teams hate him
Sunderland have taken a gamble on striker Aaron Connolly, who’s joined the Black Cats on a deal until the end of the season.
Sunderland have done a rare bit of shopping outside the transfer window by signing former Brighton and Hull City striker Aaron Connolly on a free transfer.
The 24-year-old has been without a club since the end of last season after being let go by Hull City, following a one-year spell with the Tigers.
Last season, Connolly scored eight in 24 Championship outings, making just 13 starts as injuries once again hampered his campaign.
But aside from his chequered injury record, Connolly has also had issues off the pitch, admitting himself in previous interviews that he’s been around the wrong crowd.
Journalist Michael Graham believes that Connolly’s professionalism will be his biggest challenge at the Stadium of Light this season.
But he remains a striker with a decent track record in the Championship, with strikers often lacking in the Sunderland first-team squad.
