The Premier League club, Aston Villa FC have announced that their shirts will bear a special feature for their upcoming UEFA Europa Conference League Last-16 tie against AFC Ajax this Thursday.
The 150th anniversary of the club’s founding will be marked alongside the 16th year of its long-standing partnership with Acorns, a local children’s hospice charity.
To commemorate both milestones, the front of the Villans’ jerseys will prominently display the logo of Acorns.
This isn’t the first time Acorns will be gracing Aston Villa’s shirts. The organization held the club’s shirt sponsorship title between 2008 and 2010. This renewed presence serves as a testament to the long-standing partnership between the club and the charity.
More than just a logo, this initiative holds deeper meaning. Aston Villa players and management have a cherished tradition of visiting Acorns during the holiday season, spreading joy and distributing presents to the children.
Through this gesture, Aston Villa hopes to raise awareness for Acorns and the crucial work they do within the community.
Chris Heck, President of Business Operations at Aston Villa, said, “Aston Villa and Acorns have a relationship that is world-renowned, which was brought to global attention some 16 years ago when the hospice’s name appeared on the front of those famous claret and blue shirts for the first time. We are delighted to be able to continue to work together for such a noble and important cause and we hope this exposure to such a large audience will be hugely beneficial to Acorns. On our previous visit to the Netherlands earlier in this competition, we were proud to wear the Aston Villa’s Foundation’s branding on the front of our shirts and we are extremely pleased that we’ll be able to carry Acorns’ message in a similar way.”
Trevor Johnson, Acorns Chief Executive, said, “We are extremely honoured to once again see our logo emblazoned on Aston Villa’s shirts for their upcoming Europa Conference League match against Ajax. All of us at Acorns are deeply touched by this incredible gesture of support. We’re especially thrilled to appear on their shirts during the Club’s 150th anniversary year. Their iconic decision to feature our logo on the front of their shirts from 2008-10 was groundbreaking and demonstrates the long and proud history we share with the club. Being showcased on such a grand stage not only raises awareness of Acorns but also shines a spotlight on our care for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions on a platform watched by millions across Europe. Exposure of this magnitude not only highlights our lifeline care and support but will also help us reach even more families in need. Our sincere and heartfelt thanks to our friends at Aston Villa Football Club and their supporters for their dedication to Acorns. Together, we are stronger for local children and families and we are honoured to continue such a meaningful partnership. We wish the team the very best of luck on Friday.”
Acorns is a local children’s hospice charity that provides vital care and support for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions. The entity offers specialist palliative nursing care, as well as emotional and practical support for families facing unimaginable challenges.
Riding high at the fourth place in the English top-flight with 10 wins after 27 games, Aston Villa turned their attention to another European adventure. They face a tough test against AFC Ajax at the Johan Cruyff Arena on Thursday, March 7, at 11:15 PM IST.