With Stan Petrov's retirement officially announced, I was sad to hear a few rumblings that the 19th minute applause, which has been so widely revered, would come to an end after the Wigan game. In fact, my dad was one of the main proponents of this, saying that it's novelty has worn off and is now boring. "Are we going to carry on doing this in 20 years time?"
But actually, for me, I can't think of a more fitting tribute to Stan, a more suitbale legacy, than the Aston Villa (and Celtic) fans carrying on the applause, every game, throughout the 19th minute. Not necessarily JUST to remember Stan and his service for us, but mainly as a continued recognition and raising of awareness of the horrible disease that is cancer.
For the foreseeable future, cancer will always be around, bringing death and sadness to people from all walks of life. For a football club to show a weekly awareness of this, not through wearing a ribbon, daffodil or poppy, but by taking a minute out of their support to clap their hands, would really be in keeping with the incredible fans Aston Villa have always had. It would make me incredibly proud if our club and fans were to continue with this gesture.
Imagine the scene. It's 10 years time, a young fan from another Premier League team turns up to watch their club play Villa. On 19 minutes, we begin our traditional minutes applause. The young child asks their dad "Why is everyone clapping?" and the Dad explains that Villa have always done it. It's to raise awareness of cancer.
That's our job done for another week.
19th minute applause-continue indefinitely?
posted on 18/5/13
Sammy .
Are you aware that a similar tribute has been made at Celtic matches, including last Sunday?
He was with us for over 7 years (65 goals in 312 matches) and will always be a much loved legend. Good luck, Stan
posted on 18/5/13
Excellent to hear. Always been fond of the Bhoys! I'll amend in accordance.
posted on 18/5/13
Sammy
There has been talk of a tribute/fund raising match involving both clubs, but the fact that we start our Euro campaign in mid July makes that unlikely.
Was pleased to see you stay up - Lenny/Lambo/Stan was one of our best ever midfield trios!
posted on 19/5/13
I go to the H & A games with my 2 sons and i know Stan has appreciated the support we have given him, we must not create a situation wherby it can become embarrasing for him, his family and our club. Most clubs H & A have given their support and we appreciate this. Stan must know how much he has given to our AVFC and he will always be fondly remembered for this. Let us all watch Stan move forward, I am sure he will give more to this world than his football career has ever done.
posted on 19/5/13
The 19th minute applause was a fantastic gesture ot honour a man who is and always will be a hugely respected figure at this football club.
It is, however, time to move on. I am sure Stan wouldn't want it to continue. He most likely wants to put it all behind him and focus on his recovery and his family.
Again, fantastic gesture, but lets leave it next season.
posted on 20/5/13
Don't normally join this type of thing, let alone comment.
Just would like to add a thought to this since it's difficult for some to decide when is best to end this gesture (if at all).
If it is to end however, how about when/if we actually score during that 19th minute.
Personally I don't mind what happens although I feel it is time to 'move on' and an appropriate time might be then.
Anyway, hello fellow villans.
ST holder for 12 years blah blah.
I probaly wont make a lot of comments yet, I always look in on many forums to get a feel for things on the fans front.
UTV