NEWS
Valiant Villa Fans taste defeat for great cause.
Posted on 17th January, 2012
A very large crowd at Sutton Coldfield FC were witness to a football feast on Sunday on behalf of Harry Moseley, with the proceeds going to his charities. Harrys' team made up mainly of 'Villa' fans put up a valiant effort but were unable to contain a powerful 'Old Stars' team which included Bremner, McNaught, Cowans, Gibson, Hendrie, Kinsella, Farrelly, Morley & Carruthers. Although up against it Harrys' team managed to respond twice with Harrys brother Louis scoring one from the spot. Old Stars scorers were Carruthers 6, Hendrie 6, Kinsella, Farrelly, Amoo & Pearson 1 apiece.
Match on the 15th January - all proceeds to Harry Moseley's HHHO Campaign
Posted on 6th December, 2011
Details to follow...
The AVFPA send out sincerest condolences to Gary Speed's family
Posted on 28th November, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with Gary Speed and his family and friends at this tragic time. He touched the lives of so many and was a brilliant player and manager. A sad day for football.
Double Hat-tricks are the Difference
Posted on 22nd November, 2011
Hat-tricks were the decisive factor in an otherwise close encounter at Hollyfields against a Kids Out Charity XI. Derek Dudley in the Villa goal on more than one occasion was called upon to produce good stops but it was Martin Carruthers & Ryan Amoo who took the plaudits with a hat-trick each. Lots of 'ammunition' was supplied to the front two by a midfield of Cowans, Morley, Gibson & Pearson with Morley & Gibson contributing with one apiece to make the final score 8-2.
Large Crowd Sees Old Stars Continue Run
Posted on 4th November, 2011
A large crowd at the West Midlands Travel Ground saw the Old Stars continue their unbeaten run with a 3-2 win over an enthusiastic St Marys Hospice XI. Numerous chances were created by Villa but time after time found the opposition goalkeeper in inspired form. Two goals by Lee Hendrie & one by Ryan Amoo were enough to continue an unbeaten run of eleven games.
Chris Price returns to the Villa Fold
Posted on 26th October, 2011
Chris Price made a welcome return from Australia to the Aston Villa Old Stars team in a feisty encounter at Chasetown FC against Crown Cutting XI. Putting in a great shift after his recent adventures 'down under' Chris showed he still has the fantastic appetite for getting forward from his full back berth mostly through the incisive passes of Cowans & Kinsella. Going down to 2-0 after an hour Villa showed the character and desire to level through a Martin Carruthers double and almost notch victory at the death when Carruthers was through but failed to hit the target. Going in to a penalty shoot out Derek Dudley became the hero saving all of the first 3 penalties in reply to Villa scoring all three.
Goal Stream Continues for 'Old Stars'
Posted on 11th October, 2011
The goals continue to flow for the Aston Villa Old Stars. With a starting line up containing five European Cup winners, Bremner, Heard, Cowans, Gibson & Morley, Villa were once again in hungry mood for goals against a worthy Walsall Phoenix side. The goals started with a delightful chipped effort from Mark Kinsella followed by Lee Hendrie 2, Martin Carruthers with yet another hat-trick, Price & Gibson adding one apiece. Final result of a very good football contest finished 8-4 to the Villa.
Double Figures Again For 'Old Stars' Team
Posted on 3rd October, 2011
On Sunday 2nd October, the Aston Villa Old Stars football team netted another 10 goals without reply in their match versus Blackwood FC at Hampton Sports Club, Solihull.
In front of a big crowd Lee Hendrie notched yet another hat-trick and Martin Carruthers scored another brace. Further goals came from European Cup winners Tony Morley and Colin Gibson, and former Villa youngster Ryan Amoo scored after coming on as a 2nd half substitute. Goals 9 & 10 came from guest Charlie Singh, another 2nd half substitute.
The Aston Villa Old Stars midfield of Lee Hendrie, Mark Kinsella, Gordon Cowans and Gareth Farrelly dominated play in a tough game for our opponents.
Brian Little to attend 'Open Training Day' at Villa Park
Posted on 3rd October, 2011
Brian Little will be joined by European Cup heroes Tony Morley and Ken McNaught at Aston Villa's 'Open Training Day' at Villa Park on Monday 24th October.
All three legends will be meeting supporters booked on Stadium Tours and answering their questions in a formal Q&A session.
Old Stars Go Goal Crazy
Posted on 26th September, 2011
On Sunday 25th September, the Aston Villa Old Stars played some fantastic football on their way to a goal rout at the Trevor Brown Memorial Ground in Boldmere, Sutton Coldfield. Lee Hendrie led the way bagging 5, Mark Burke 3, Mark Walters 2, with Gareth Farrelly, Gavin Price and Jon Pearson netting one each, on top of an unfortunate diving header own goal that resulted in a 14-1 scoreline. But for the heroics of the home team goalkeeper it could have been more.
Martin Carruthers Rich Vein
Posted on 12th September, 2011
Martin Carruthers continued his rich vein of scoring, with two well taken goals against a determined, youthful Malachi Trust XI. Lee Hendrie was unlucky striking the bar and then the post during a very entertaining game. Most of Villas good things were coming through a midfield of Gordon Cowans, Colin Gibson and Mark Kinsella. But for the excellent form of the Malachi goalkeeper who saved well from Mark Burke and Dave Norton the result could have been more than 2-0.
Martin Carruthers hat-trick
Posted on 6th September, 2011
A Martin Carruthers hat-trick was enough to see off a spirited Bolehall Swifts XI. Having turned round at half time 2-1 in front, a strong Villa side including Gordon Cowans, Steve Staunton, Lee Hendrie,& Ken McNaught took control in the second half with further goals by Mark Burke & Ian Ward before Carruthers completed his hat-trick with a solitary reply by Bolehall. Final result 5-2
Nigel Spink takes on 3-Peaks challenge
Posted on 1st September, 2011
Former Aston Villa goalkeeper Nigel Spink, now Sunderland's goalkeeping coach, is taking on the Three-Peaks Challenge for charity on Saturday 3rd September.
Nigel, aged 53, is one of the 'Crackpot Climbers', a ten-strong group attempting the Three-Peaks Challenge for the Breast Cancer Campaign charity.
Alongside wife Lesley, Nigel and his group will attempt to scale the three highest mountains in England, Scotland and Wales - Scafell Pike, Ben Nevis and Snowdon - in just 24 hours, including travelling time.
Nigel and the 'Crackpot Climbers' have a £7,000 fundraising target and any donations can be made quickly and easily online at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/3Peaks-Sutton
Aston Villa FPA mourn the death of former player Bernie Gallacher
Posted on 29th August, 2011
Former Aston Villa player Bernie Gallacher tragically passed away on Sunday 28th August 2011 in Good Hope hospital in Sutton Coldfield after a short illness.
Bernie played over 70 first-team games for the club during the 1980's and early 1990's at left-back and was very popular with his teammates.
He was also a great supporter and participant with the Aston Villa Former Players Association and he will be sadly missed by many.
Tickets still available for "Hall Of Fame" induction event
Posted on 15th August, 2011
Aston Villa's 1982 team will gather once again to be inducted into the National Football Museum's 'Hall of Fame' and legendary manager Ron Saunders will present them with the award.
The Holte Suite at Villa Park will be the venue on Thursday 27th October 2011 as the most successful team in Aston Villa's rich history is officially honoured.
It is somewhat appropriate that the man who helped create that magical side is there to see them immortalised.
The 'Hall of Fame' was launched in 2002 and celebrates the greatest players, managers and teams of all-time in English football.
It is a huge honour that the 1982 team will sit alongside the likes of Sir Bobby Charlton, Sir Alex Ferguson and England's 1966 World Cup winning team.
The event is a black-tie function and will see the 1982 legends assembled to receive this prestigious award and the evening will be hosted by well-known football fan and BBC Presenter - Nick Owen.
Tickets are now on-sale with tables of 10 available at £600 + vat to include cash bar, 3-course dinner and souvenir programme for all guests.
Individual tickets can be purchased for £65 + vat (maximum of 4 tickets per person), which will be on shared tables.
This really is a unique opportunity for Villa fans to be present with the 1982 team at their well-deserved Hall of Fame induction.
Tickets can be booked by contacting Julie Coleman on 0161 482 8222 or by email to julie@inconnection.uk.com
Former Players win Golf Challenge
Posted on 12th August, 2011
A team of 8 former players played a 'Ryder Cup' style golf challenge against a team representing Steve Jones, MD of Crown Cutting Services based in Chasetown, and emerged victorious at Aston Wood Golf Club on Thursday 11th August.
Each fourball comprised a pair representing each team and the Aston Villa pairings were -
Mark Kinsella & Jon Martin - who won their match.
Des Bremner & Pat Heard - who won their match.
Lee Hendrie & Phil King - who won their match.
Tommy Hughes & Neil Rioch - who lost their match.
Lee Hendrie (10 h'cap) and one of our opponents Dylan Johnson (4 h'cap) were the leading golfers on the day.
Both teams looked immaculate in their respective matching 'team' attire and enjoyed an informal dinner afterwards where the Aston Villa former players were duly presented with the 'winners' trophy to cap a great day.
A re-match has already been agreed for April 2012 when the teams will be extended to either 10 or 12 players per team.
Hendrie hits hat-trick on debut
Posted on 8th August, 2011
Former Aston Villa & England international Lee Hendrie marked his debut for the Aston Villa Old Stars team with a hat-trick in the 6-1 win at Daventry FC on Sunday 7th August.
In a strong Aston Villa team that also included European Cup winning stars Ken McNaught, Colin Gibson and Tony Morley, and Republic of Ireland internationals Mark Kinsella and Gareth Farrelly, the Aston Villa Old Stars produced some excellent football in front of a large crowd.
But it was Lee Hendrie who provided a 'man of the match' display with 3 superb goals and two assists.
Match versus Barry Donegan XI
Posted on 26th July, 2011
AVOS put in a sterling shift against a youthfull looking Barry Donegan XI @ Chasetown FC on Sunday.Going behind to a clinical finish after twenty minutes, AVOS continued to play their passing game, creating numerous chances for forwards Mark Burke & Martin Carruthers. Good defending & goalkeeping kept Villa @ bay until Gareth Farrelly popped up with a close range header. Into the second half AVOS had majority of possession but Des Bremner & Gavin Price had to be on their toes for breakaways.
The Old Stars finally made the deserved breakthrough when guest player Charlie Singh latched on to a through ball by Farrelly to notch the winner.
Aston Villa Old Stars - new fixtures update
Posted on 14th July, 2011
The new Aston Villa Old Stars football fixtures schedule is now posted in the fixtures section.
Club legend appointed General Manager
Posted on 4th July, 2011
Aston Villa legend Ken McNaught has been appointed the full-time General Manager of Aston Villa Former Players Association.
Ken not only had an outstanding career as a footballer winning the League Championship, European Cup and European Super-Cup with Aston Villa, but was also Head of Events & Corporate Services for 12 years at The Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland, one of the world’s most coveted 5 star hotel, golf and leisure resorts.
Ken’s experience and knowledge will play a major part in the continuing progress of the Aston Villa Former Players Association.
Aston Villa crowned the Midlands Masters
Posted on 4th July, 2011
Aston Villa came back from 0-2 down to beat Wolverhampton Wanderers in a penalty shoot-out to claim the Midlands Masters crown at the NIA in Birmingham on Sunday 3rd July.
The Aston Villa squad comprised of Paul Crichton (g/k), Alan Wright, Neil Cox, David Norton, Gareth Farrelly, Mustapha Hadji, Tony Daley and captain Mark Kinsella. Tony Daley was presented with the 'Player of the Tournament' award.
The team now progress to the 'Grand Final' to be held in Manchester on Sunday 4th September, where Glasgow Rangers, Liverpool and Leeds United have also qualified with other teams to come from the London, Central and Manchester Masters.
Aston Villa FPA Golf Day & Summer Ball a huge success
Posted on 4th July, 2011
Aston Villa Former Players Association held the biggest golf day event in their 17 years history on Friday 1st July when 22 fourballs played at Aston Wood Golf Club during the day and 262 people attended the evening Summer Ball in the fabulous marquee.
A host of Villa legends attended the event including Dennis Mortimer, Gordon Cowans, Ken McNaught, Des Bremner, David Geddis, Andy Blair and Pat Heard from the all-conquering side of 1981-82, plus other former Villa players such as Peter McParland, Bruce Rioch, Brian Little, Steve Staunton, Ian Taylor, Bobby Thomson, Alan Deakin, Dick Edwards, Bryan Small, Phil King, Gordon Smith, Mark Kinsella, Gordon Lee, Davie Gibson, Darren Bradley, Neil Rioch, Ray Walker and Gavin Price.
Fantastic weather provided perfect golfing conditions and the evening Summer Ball was expertly led by MC Paul Burrell who introduced Duncan Norvelle (a late substitute for the ill Frank Carson) and Fisher Stevens as Elvis Presley. Both performed quite brilliantly and provided a fitting end to a hugely successful day.
Aston Villa FPA & Aston Wood Golf Club forge 'Business Partnership'
Posted on 4th July, 2011
Aston Villa Former Players Association has forged an exclusive business partnership with Aston Wood Golf Club in Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield.
All future Aston Villa FPA golf events will now be staged at Aston Wood GC and the Aston Villa FPA will also stage several other events at the superb venue throughout each year, including Q&A Nights with former Villa legends and other informal evenings.
In return, all former Aston Villa players and full members of the association will benefit from 'courtesy of the course' 7 days a week.
Aston Villa FPA Chief Executive Neil Rioch said, "this is the first time we've contemplated an exclusive arrangement with a golf club, however, the superb facilities at the golf club and forward-thinking of Simon Smith (General Manager) and his colleagues made the decision an easy one to make." He went on, "the arrangement has already proved very successful for both parties and we look forward to a long and mutually-rewarding relationship."
Former Aston Villa coach Frank Upton passes away after a long illness
Posted on 25th May, 2011
The world of football lost one of its great coaches when Frank Upton passed away on 17th May aged 76 after a long illness with Pulmonary Arthritis.
Frank had a long and successful football career as a player, coach, chief scout and manager. A tough-tackling wing-half, his football league playing career started at Northampton Town in 1953. He transferred to Derby County in 1954 and made over 250 appearances before moving to Chelsea where he helped them win promotion to the 1st Division in 1962-63 and the League Cup in 1965. He finished his league career at Notts County in 1966-67.
Frank joined Workington as player-manager in January 1968 and joined Northampton Town's coaching staff in October 1969, but moved to coach Aston Villa's youth team in January 1970 where he had truly great success in not only winning the Southern Junior Floodlit Cup and FA Youth Cup, but also producing a long line of top quality players such as Brian Little, John Gidman, John Deehan, Steve Hunt, Colin Gibson, Gary Williams and many, many others who went on to gain international recognition and/or win major trophies.
Other coaching and/or managerial posts included Chelsea, Danish side Randers, Dundee, Al Arabi of Kuwait, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Coventry City, Icelandic side Keflavik ÍF, and Leicester City. In December 2008 he returned to Derby and served on the Derby County Former Players' Association committee.
Frank was one of life's most splendid of people. He will be sadly missed by all who knew and worked with him, and very many footballers owe their success to Frank Upton.
<strong>Funeral</strong>
Tuesday 31st May
12 noon
Markeaton Crematorium
Markeaton Lane(off A52 Derby to Ashbourne road)
Derby
DE22 4NH
R.I.P.
UPDATE: The National Football Museum Hall of Fame Dinner
Posted on 8th March, 2011
As a result of certain important individuals and dignitaries, including Peter Withe, being unable to attend the Hall of Fame Dinner on 7th April, Aston Villa Football Club and Aston Villa Former Players Association in consultation with the organising company MBN Events decided to postpone the event until later this year.
It was strongly felt that not having ‘key’ people in attendance, coupled with the rather small number of people who would have actually been attending, meant the event would have lacked the sense of ‘occasion’ that the induction into the National Hall of Fame of Aston Villa’s 1982 European Cup winning team really deserves.
A new date in September or October 2011 for the rescheduled event will be announced shortly.
Old Stars 52nd Consecutive Season Has Kicked Off
Posted on 8th March, 2011
Aston Villa Old Stars 52nd consecutive season has recently kicked off, please go to 2011 fixture list under the heading Aston Villa Old Stars for full details.
Latest Update On Chris Price
Posted on 26th January, 2011
Chris has had so many good wishes he's quite overwhelmed with them all. People have been so kind.
He is improving daily and will be returning to work shortly. Probably too soon but unfortunately needs must.
Last week he spoke with a psychologist who is helping him come to terms with the trauma of drowning. He is very good, and Chris will continue to visit him over the next few weeks.
The shock has brought on a flare-up of arthritis (in his ankles) which makes it difficult to walk but at least he's not using the wheelchair any longer. He's desperately hoping to be fit for March/April as he has planned a fund raising event for Tasha. He is going to run 10km blindfolded (with a guide). So fingers crossed he has a speedy recovery. Tash has a Donate Paypal on her blog/website (www.tashasjourney.com) , Tash has been too poorly lately to go on it, but she will hopefully be updating the site in the next few days.
We are so glad Tash is over here with us. We are so grateful for all the help we received from the UK helping us fund her journey and that of yourself Karl and Neil and the help that the Former Players Association gave in helping to make this possible.
Unfortunately, medication here is so expensive, making it is a constant uphill battle for us. This in turn means we have had to cut Natasha's medication drastically and unfortunately she has to cope with the consequences of this. She is going through a bit of a bad patch at the moment. We did have her spasms under control, now they are creeping back and she suffers chronic pain on a daily basis. This makes Chris and I feel totally useless.
We have an appointment in a couple of weeks with a Neurologist (but not a specialist of her condition as it is so rare), hopefully he may have some suggestions that may help her.
It will always be an uphill struggle for Tash but she manages to stay fairly bright and cheerful.
Chris would like to thank everyone who has sent their best wishes to him over the past few weeks. He appreciates the kindness they have all shown him and that of yourself and Neil.
Best Wishes to all and Up The Villa.
Chris Price recovering after freak accident
Posted on 13th January, 2011
One week ago, former Aston Villa right-back Chris Price, who played over 100 games for the club from 1988-1992, nearly lost his life when he was caught by a 'rip' underwater current and dragged out to sea while playing football with his youngest daughter on a beach near his home in Brisbane, Australia.
Chris was eventually found face down in the water and not breathing.
Whilst the beach lifeguards were working to resuscitate him, Chris suffered a cardiac arrest and the lifeguards started CPR until the ambulance arrived. Chris was then taken to the Gold Coast hospital and immediately put on life support in the Acute Care Unit.
Chris has since been allowed to return home after showing good signs of recovery. However, when at home he suffered a further set-back when he contracted pneumonia as a result of the amount of sea water in his lungs. He is now on medication for that and slowly improving. It's going to be a long time before Chris gets back to normal as he still can't walk yet, but can stand with help.
On top of this, Chris and his family are having to battle the horrendous floods that have now hit Brisbane and Queensland in general.
Chris and his wife Linda would like to thank everybody in the UK for their concern and messages of support.
The biography of Villa legend Jackie Sewell is now available...
Posted on 29th November, 2010
<a href='JACKIE SEWELL BOOK.pdf' target='_blank'>Click here to download further information</a>
Aston Villa FPA Golf Day Report - Please See Events Section
Posted on 20th September, 2010
Aston Villa FPA Golf Day confirmed for August 5th 2010, for details see below
Posted on 23rd June, 2010
Aston Villa Old Stars play Lapworth Cricket Club
Posted on 22nd June, 2010
Lapworth Cricket Club Fun Day – Sunday July 4th
Plans are now well advanced for the Lapworth Fun Day on Super Sunday July 4th when the main attraction will be a 30 over’s a side cricket match between the Aston Villa Old Stars and Lapworth CC.
The Villa Old Stars are really looking forward to the rematch and will be keen to avenge the defeat they suffered in 2008. Although it is too early to give details of the Aston Villa team it uis hoped that they can call upon the following football legends, Des Bremner, Gordon Cowans, Colin Gibson, Ray Graydon, Chris Nicholl, Neil Rioch, Paul Merson and Gary Shaw to name but a few.
All of the groups and organisations within Lapworth are continuing to support this event now in its third year and this year’s event is going to be bigger and even better. There will be many stalls situated around the ground with numerous children attractions including a Face painting stall and temporary tattoos and many many games – with even some for the bigger children!!
A FREE entrance Bouncy Castle will be available all day and a new attraction this year is a Penny Arcade. The History group are hoping to stage an enactment on the day and plans for a vintage car display are progressing.
The Lapworth Players will again be in charge of the BBQ, the WI is offering teas and coffees and as usual there will be a Pig Roast. A licensed bar and soft drinks will be available all day as well as a Henley Ice Cream unit.
Entry to the ground costs is just £2.50 per adult with children under 15 free. Car Parking is FREE although it is limited so it makes sense to get to the ground early to secure your space. The Gates open at 1.45pm and the BIG MATCH commences at 2.30pm.
Its going to be a really fabulous day so please come along with your families have lots of fun LOCALLY and in addition support all of the following groups at the Lapworth Fun Day Players, WI, Village Hall, Elderberries, Lees Chapel, PTA, Moles, Brownies & Guides, History Group, Youth Club, Spear and the Cricket Club.
A donation from the proceeds on the day will be made to Charity which this year is Lapworth First Responders.
Major Changes and New Appointments
Posted on 26th April, 2010
In the past year, the Aston Villa FPA has been busy reorganising its operational structure for maximum efficiency and effectiveness as the association continues to grow and develop.
John Donnelly, who was a Villa player in the 1960’s and has since become a very successful business entrepreneur, is now the new chairman of our association in a voluntary capacity.
John has been an invaluable ‘business adviser’ to the Aston Villa FPA almost since its creation, and he succeeds Neil Rioch who is now the ‘full-time’ Chief Executive. Karl Court remains the ‘full-time’ General Secretary but has devolved all his accounts and financial management responsibility to our chartered accountancy partners Sterling Financial.
Finally, Lucy Davies has been appointed to the ‘executive’ team. Lucy is currently on sabbatical from her position as a corporate investment executive at RBS and is now performing a critically important ‘Operations’ role for the association in a voluntary capacity.
Our need to form a registered charity
Posted on 26th April, 2010
To meet the growing demand for funds with which to fully deliver our Health & Welfare support programme in particular, we are in the process of forming a ‘registered charity’. We are delighted to be working with a ‘top-quality’ team that includes John Donnelly, Lucy Davies, Bryan Sheppard (CEO) and Michael Price (director) of the Birmingham based BID Services charity, and Adrian Cutler, Partner at Cobbetts LLP. We are indebted to their ‘voluntary’ expertise and support. We are now finalising all the necessary work before submitting our application, and we hope to have Trustees appointed and achieve registered charity status by this summer.
Aston Villa FPA Mourn The Death Of Brian Godfrey
Posted on 11th February, 2010
--------------
OBITUARY
It is with great sadness the Aston Villa Former Players Association announces that Brian Godfrey, aged 69, passed away at 04.15 this morning in hospital near his home in Cyprus after a lengthy and courageous battle against Leukaemia.
Brian started his professional football career at Everton and in an 18-year career played for 6 league clubs and was capped for Wales at
U23 and full international level. He joined Aston Villa from Preston North End in 1967 and played over 160 games including captaining Aston Villa in the 1971 League Cup Final.
Brian was a staunch participant and supporter of the Aston Villa FPA and Aston Villa Old Stars football team and we mourn his passing.
Brian's funeral was a small private service for family and close friends and was held in Kyrenia, Northern Cyprus on Thursday 18th February 2010.
Cyprus Tour Report
Posted on 19th October, 2009
The report from our Cyprus Tour is now live.
Aston Villa Old Stars team retain FragranceMad.com as sponsors
Posted on 7th October, 2009
During what have been turbulent and difficult economic times for everybody, Aston Villa Old Stars are delighted to have retained FragranceMad.com as our official sponsor for 2010/2011.
Medsport GB Website Now Live
Posted on 11th August, 2009
Announcing the launch of the new Medsport GB website – Proud sponsors of Aston Villa Former Player's Association. Medsport GB supply a wide range of Sports Medicine, Injury Prevention, Training and Rehabilitation products from leading manufacturers at low online prices. If you should have any product queries or bulk requirements, please do not hesitate to contact the Medsport GB Sales Team directly on freephone 0333 123 1321.
Click here to open the Medsport GB Website
The Death Of Tommy Cummings
Posted on 21st July, 2009
We are sad to announce the death of former club manager Tommy Cummings, aged 80, who died on Sunday 12th July after a long illness. His funeral will be at Burnley Crematorium at midday on Friday 24th July.
Paul Merson makes debut for Aston Villa Old Stars team
Posted on 21st July, 2009
Paul Merson makes debut for Aston Villa Old Stars team - Much to the delight of a sizeable crowd, Aston Villa & England legend Paul Merson made his debut for the Aston Villa Old Stars team in the 6-5 victory over a Jaguar/Land Rover X1 on 28th June 2009. An even larger crowd saw Paul give a stunning performance in the 6-3 win against Bewdley Town Vets X1 the following Sunday.
Playing alongside 'regulars' such as European Cup winning heroes Gordon Cowans, Tony Morley, Colin Gibson, Ken McNaught, Des Bremner and Pat Heard, as well as internationals Steve Staunton, Tony Daley and Mark Kinsella, Paul is really enjoying turning out for the Aston Villa Old Stars team. He joins a long list of Aston Villa greats to play for the team and it is terrific to have him on-board in our 50th Anniversary year.
Aston Villa FPA Mourn The Death Of Eddie Lowe
Posted on 10th March, 2009
Again - it is with much sadness that we inform you of the death of former Aston Villa and England international Eddie Lowe, aged 83, who passed away peacefully in hospital in Nottingham at 7.30pm on Monday 9th March.
Born in Halesowen, Eddie signed professional for Aston Villa in May 1945 and made 117 appearances and gained 3 England caps in the left-half position before his transfer to Fulham in 1950.
It has been a tragic start to 2009 with the loss of five great servants of Aston Villa Football Club - Vic Crowe, Johnny Dixon, Paul Birch, Harry Parkes and now Eddie Lowe.
Aston Villa FPA Mourn The Death Of Harry Parkes
Posted on 6th March, 2009
It is with much sadness that we announce the passing away of former Aston Villa great Harry Parkes, aged 89, who died peacefully at his home last Wednesday morning after a long illness.
A one-club man who made 345 appearances in eight different positions between 1939-1954, Harry is widely regarded as one of Aston Villa's most popular players of all-time and in 2000, supporters voted him the 1940's 'Player of the Decade'. He also sat on Aston Villa's board of directors in the late 1960's and 1970s.
He retired from football in 1955 to concentrate on his successful sports shop in Corporation Street, Birmingham and later formed the Intersport Group before retiring in the mid 1990's.
Aston Villa FPA Mourn The Death Of Paul Birch
Posted on 2nd February, 2009
It is with the greatest sadness that we inform you that former Aston Villa & Wolves player Paul Birch passed away this morning (Monday 2nd February 2009) in Good Hope Hospital, Sutton Coldfield after a long and courageous battle against bone cancer.
Paul Birch began his career in the Aston Villa youth system, winning the Youth Cup along the way in 1980, and made his first team debut in the 1982/83 season in the European Super Cup Final coming on as a substitute for Gary Shaw, with 12 minutes of the game remaining. He then became a regular first-team player in the 1983/84 season, making his league debut on August 29 1983 in a 1-0 win at home to Sunderland. During Villa's decline he was the mainstay of their midfield - able to play on the right or in the centre - and through his tenacious performances became a huge Holte End favourite.
However, when Dr Jozef Venglos became Villa manager in 1990, Birch found himself out of the team and was sold to second flight Wolverhampton Wanderers in early 1991 for £400,000 where he joined up with former manager Graham Turner. He had served Aston Villa F.C.for over 10 years and was awarded a testimonial by the club (against his new side) in August 1991.
Birch stayed at Wolves for five years as the club tried to break into the Premier League. He was almost an ever-present under Turner, but found regular appearances harder to come by after Wolves appointed another former manager of his, Graham Taylor.
He was finally released by Wolves in the summer of 1996, after a short loan spell at Preston North End, whereupon he finished his career with a season at both Doncaster Rovers and then Exeter City before retiring from professional football.
He then turned out for many years for the Aston Villa Old Stars football team, helping to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for those less fortunate than himself.
RIP Birchy, you'll be forever in our hearts.
Donations if desired can be made by cheque to the 'Paul Birch Trust' and sent to:
Paul Birch Trust
C/o Aston Villa FPA
Villa Park
Trinity Road
Birmingham
B6 6HE
Aston Villa FPA Mourn The Death Of Vic Crowe
Posted on 22nd January, 2009
Following the very sad news yesterday regarding Johnny Dixon, we were informed this morning of the death of another Aston Villa great - Vic Crowe - who passed away yesterday, Wednesday 21 January 2009, aged 76 after a long illness.
Victor Crowe was born Abercynon, Glamorgan on 31 January 1932 was a former Welsh footballer.
Vic Crowe signed for Aston Villa in the 1951/52 season and established himself in the team when Danny Blanchflower vacated the right-half berth in 1954. He missed the 1957 FA Cup Final due to injury but captained the side to the Second Division title in 1960 and League Cup Final success in 1961. He was capped 16 times by Wales and was a member of their World Cup Finals squad in 1958.
As coach and then as manager, Crowe was unable to prevent Villa being relegated when he took charge towards the end of the 1969/70 season. The following season he led his Third Division team to the League Cup Final against Tottenfham Hotspur, which Villa lost 2-0. However he saw his side finish top of Division Three in 1972, breaking many records along the way and playing some wonderful football. He was sacked in 1974 after his side finished 14th in Division Two.
In 1975 Vic went to the United States to take part in the North American Soccer League, taking the manager's position with Portland Timbers. He brought a cast of English players with him, many of them young players from Aston Villa and the Midlands area, and they proceeded to win the Western Division championship and advanced all the way to the NASL final, losing 2-0 to Yampa Bay Rowdies. In their two home playoff games, "The Lads" success forced the club to add temporary seating to accommodate their fans, and the team played before two crowds in excess of 30,000, totals unheard of in US soccer at the time. Vic stayed in Portland through the 1976 season before returning to England.
However, the Timbers beckoned again in 1980 and he returned for three more seasons in America. Although his teams never captured the success of that first year, he left an indelible mark on soccer in the Pacific Northwest by introducing thousands of Portland area residents to the joys of the game. Today, Portland is a soccer hotbed. The Timbers still live as members of the professional USL First Division, and they play in the same stadium where Vic and the boys excelled that first year in 1975.
Aston Villa FPA Mourn The Death Of Johnny Dixon
Posted on 21st January, 2009
We are extremely sad to announce that Aston Villa's 1957 FA Cup-winning captain Johnny Dixon passed away on Tuesday 20 January 2009.
Born in Newcastle Upon Tyne, he played for Aston Villa from 1945 until his retirement in 1961, making 430 appearances and scoring 144 goals. He was Villa's last FA Cup winning captain, in 1957.
Dixon signed as a professional for Villa shortly after the Second World War, after playing a number of wartime matches for the club. He was voted supporters' 'Terrace Trophy' winner in 1959; and in 1960 helped Villa win promotion back to the top-flight. He played his last game for Villa in April 1961, scoring in a 4-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday.
On retiring, Dixon remained at the club for six years coaching the youth team. One of the most popular Villa players of all time, he continued to turn out for the Aston Villa Old Stars, playing his last game at 72 years of age. He was also honorary President Of The Aston Villa Former Players Association since its creation in 1995.
To all that knew him Johnny was a legend and a true gentleman.
In recent years Johnny had suffered from Alzheimers disease and passed away in Good Hope Hospital.
The family would like to express their gratitude to all at Good Hope Hospital who's staff were absolutely wonderful.
He is survived by his wife Brenda, son Andrew, daughter Helen and 3 grandchildren, to whom we express our deepest condolences.
Aston Villa FPA Mourn The Death Of Peter Aldis
Posted on 27th November, 2008
We are sad to announce that Aston Villa's 1957 FA Cup-winning left-back Peter Aldis passed away on Thursday November 13th 2008, aged 81. Peter had been poorly for some time and whilst in hospital had a stroke on the previous Tuesday from which he never regained consciousness.
Peter was a left-back who played 294 times for Aston Villa during the 1950s and was part of the FA Cup-winning side of 1957.
He also held the English league record for the longest headed goal - from 35 yards out. The goal against Sunderland in 1952 was also the only one he ever scored during his time with Villa.
Peter was born in Kings Heath, Birmingham, on 11 April, 1927, and worked for well-known local chocolate firm Cadbury's before joining Aston Villa from local side Hay Green in November 1948. He turned professional the following January.
Peter and Stan Lynn then went on to form the most famous full-back partnership in Aston Villa's history - playing more than 600 matches between them.
He left the club in 1960 to join Hinckley Athletic.
In 1964 he moved to Australia, becoming player-manager at a couple of clubs, one of which was Melbourne club Wilhelmina - where he won the Australian Player of the Year award.
In 1968 - at 41 years old – Peter and his family moved back to England, taking on the role of player manager at non-league side Alvechurch. In later years the family moved down to Sussex where they still live to this day.
He is survived by his wife Grace, and two daughters Julie and Leeza to whom we express our deepest condolences.
Aston Villa FPA Mourn The Death Of Bill Shorthouse
Posted on 12th November, 2008
Born in Bilston, Staffordshire, Bill Shorthouse attended St Martin's School in nearby Bradley before serving in the Second World War, where he was wounded in the arm during the Normandy Landings, He returned and recovered to sign for Wolves as an apprentice in 1945; his league debut came on 23 August 1947 in a 3–4 defeat at Manchester City.
He played as a defender, first at centre-half until replaced by Billy Wright, then at full-back. He was part of the club's 1949 FA Cup winning team and was a near ever-present as the club won their first league championship in the 1953-1954 season.
The defender remained a first choice player at Molineux until retiring in late 1956. In total, he played 376 senior games for the club – putting him among the club's top 20 appearance makers – before launching a career in coaching.
Shorthouse went on to coach at Birmingham City and he acted as caretaker manager at the end of the 1969-70 season while the club sought a replacement after Stan Cullis, Shorthouse's former manager at Wolves, retired. He also briefly coached the England Youth Team during the following season and later worked as a youth team coach at Aston Villa, where he is still fondly remembered by former players and supporters alike, having guided them to victory in the 1980 FA Youth Cup.
He spent the remainder of his life in Wolverhampton and was very active within the Wolves Former Players Association.
Known as 'The Baron' to his team-mates, he died in a Wolverhampton nursing home on 6th September 2008 at the age of 86. He had been suffering from dementia.
He was survived by his wife Betty, two sons Paul and Nigel, four grandchildren and one great-grandson to whom we express our deepest condolences.
FUNDRAISER – FOR THE 'PAUL BIRCH TRUST' - CHARITY BIKE RIDE
Posted on 28th September, 2008
On Saturday 4th October 2008, Chris Cooper, a lifelong Aston Villa fan, will be embarked on a 'Charity Bike Ride' from Villa Park to Paris in France, a gruelling 500-mile trip that he completed in 5 days wearing the claret & blue colours of Aston Villa.
<a href="http://www.astonvillafpa.org/charitybikeride.php">Click here to find out more and read Chris' daily blog.</a>
Old Stars appoint Chris Nicholl as their new manager
Posted on 12th August, 2008
We are delighted to formally announce the appointment of Chris Nicholl as Manager of the Aston Villa Old Stars football team, only the 6th Manager in the team's 49-year history.
Chris, a former Aston Villa Old Stars player himself, officially took charge on Sunday 18th May and the players responded immediately with a resounding 15-0 victory.
In a very successful football career, Chris Nicholl was Aston Villa’s first choice centre-half between 1971 and 1977 making over 250 appearances. During this time he was twice a League Cup winner, first in 1975 and again in 1977 as captain and goalscorer. He also won two promotions helping Aston Villa back into the top-flight in 1975.
Chris was transferred to Southampton in 1977, again making over 250 appearances and reaching another League Cup Final in 1979. He won 51 caps for Northern Ireland and played in the 1982 World Cup Finals in Spain.
After retiring as a player, Chris was appointed Manager of Southampton FC between 1985 and 1991 leading them to FA Cup and League Cup semi-finals and a 7th place finish in the 1st division. In 1994 Chris became Manager of Walsall FC and led the club to promotion in his first season. From 1998 to 2000, he was Assistant Manager of the Northern Ireland international team.
So it is a proud moment for the Aston Villa Old Stars to have someone of Chris’s pedigree to take charge and lead the team through the 'half-a-century' milestone of fundraising fixtures and beyond. I'm sure you will all give him your full support.
As we welcome Chris Nicholl to his new managerial post, we want to pay tribute to the fantastic job that John Chambers has done as Manager of the team since 2002. John first played in the team in 1971 and has been the backbone of the Aston Villa Old Stars for over 35 years. He was awarded the Aston Villa FPA's 'Outstanding Service' award in 1999 and we sincerely hope we'll continue to see 'Chambo' turn out for the team again in the near future.
1957 FA Cup hero Les Smith sadly passes away
Posted on 10th March, 2008
Aston Villa Former Players mourn the death of another of their 1957 FA Cup winning heroes Leslie Smith, just two weeks after the death of fellow 1957 Wembley winner Jimmy Dugdale.
Smith, sadly passed away last Saturday, March 8th 2008, following a long battle with throat and bowel cancer. Smith was a rare breed, a winger who could play on either flank, and joined Villa from Wolves in February 1956 for £25,000.
He went on to score 25 goals in 130 games for the club, the highlight of which was the FA Cup final victory over Manchester United 41 years ago. He was sadly forced into early retirement in 1960 after suffering an Achilles injury.
Smith was also a member of the Wolves team that beat Honved under floodlights at Molineux in 1954, he scored 24 goals in 94 games for Wolves.
Halesowen born Smith, who passed away at Mary Stevens Hospice in Stourbridge, leaves a wife Lynne, 75, a son Nigel, 47, and grandchildren Faye and Scott.
HISTORIC "DOUBLE HEADER"
Posted on 14th October, 2007
Who said it couldn´t be done?
On Sunday 14th October, the Aston Villa Old Stars reputation was greatly enhanced as the team created a piece of history.
It was the first time in the 48 years history of the team (and probably the last) that two X1´s have ever played simultaneously. An Aston Villa Old Stars side kicked off at 2.30pm at Studley FC in Warwickshire and another Aston Villa Old Stars side kicked off at 1.30pm at Chasetown FC in Staffordshire.
The players deserve great credit for their commitment to supporting the ethos of the Aston Villa Old Stars and for this outstanding achievement and it also demonstrates the strength in depth of the current squad. We cannot think of another club that could have done this.
That a number of our squad were unavailable to play, such as European Cup heroes Tony Morley and Colin Gibson who were on holiday, Steve Staunton who was with the Republic of Ireland team, Mark Walters who was with the Villa youngsters at Stoke City, etc, the ability to still field two strong teams is even more remarkable.
Special mention must go to our General Secretary Karl Court and to our Administrator Lynne Atkinson who both did a fantastic job with the respective match organisers and in communicating with the players.
We don´t yet know the final amount of money raised from the two games for the respective Cancer Research and Acorn´s Hospice charities but indications are it will be a healthy sum in both instances.
As for the games, well it was good news that both our teams won. The 2-1 victory at Studley FC could have been by a greater margin. As for the 19-0 win at Chasetown FC, well the team just clicked on the day on a perfect playing surface.
After their 19-0 win at Chasetown FC the players referred to themselves as the ´first-team´ and when checking with the players who played at Studley FC, referred to them as the ´reserves´. The Aston Villa Old Stars team is not a good place for anyone with a big ego!