From the Banking to the Boardroom

In this episode of Chorley FC Stories, long-time supporter Julian “Jue” Vass looks back on more than twenty years of involvement with Chorley FC and the many roles he has played around Victory Park.

Julian first began coming to the ground as a ten-year-old in 2002. Like many young supporters at the time, his early memories are as much about the freedom of being around the ground with friends as they are about the football itself. He recalls playing football on the banking behind the goal, exploring the ground and gradually becoming part of the matchday community that makes non-league football so unique.

Over the years, Julian’s involvement with the club grew far beyond simply watching from the terraces. He helped in the old unofficial club shop inside the social club, spent time working behind the bar, had a brief spell helping as a kitman and later became the stadium PA announcer for several seasons. His commitment to the club also led him to become Chair of the Magpies Trust, the supporters’ organisation that works to represent fans and help safeguard the future of the club.

Throughout the conversation, Julian reflects on some of the most memorable moments he has experienced as a supporter. From the excitement surrounding the managerial era of Gary Flitcroft and Matt Jansen to the club’s promotion to the National League and the unforgettable FA Cup run that saw Chorley face teams such as Derby County and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Even when games were played behind closed doors during the pandemic, those moments remained hugely significant for supporters who had followed the club for years.

More than anything, Julian’s story highlights how a local football club can become part of a person’s identity. The friendships he has built, the experiences he has shared and the community he has found at Victory Park have all helped shape his life.

This episode forms part of the Chorley FC Stories heritage project led by Chorley FC Community Foundation, capturing and preserving the voices and memories of people connected to the club so that the history and spirit of Chorley FC can continue to be shared with future generations.