Oxford United’s Men’s First Team headed into the city centre on Tuesday to take part in a squad photo with a twist, as the Club recognised the outstanding contribution of the team behind the team.
A select group of supporters, staff, volunteers and community members all thought they were attending a community event on the rooftop terrace at Westgate Oxford, only to discover they were about to be part of the official team photo with Gary Rowett and the Men’s team.
Amongst the 20 invitees, who were joined by family and friends, were matchday volunteers who have given decades of service, long-time fans who have followed the Club through the highs and lows, staff members who work tirelessly behind the scenes, players from Oxford United’s refugee and inclusion football programmes, and even a young supporter preparing for life-changing surgery. Each one brought with them a story of loyalty and resilience and epitomises what it means to represent Oxford United.
Set against the backdrop of the city’s iconic ‘dreaming spires’ skyline, the photo was an opportunity to pay tribute to those who sit at the very heart of the Club, with the players and Gary Rowett also taking time to meet each person individually and hear their amazing stories.
Oxford United's Chief Executive Officer, Tim Williams, said: “This year we wanted our annual team photo to mean something more by including the people who truly make Oxford United what it is.
“The volunteers, supporters, community members and staff – they are the foundation of this Club, and it was truly amazing to have them shoulder-to-shoulder with the players.
“The stories we heard were inspiring. From fans who have been coming for decades, to the volunteers who give up their time every matchday, to the refugee and inclusion footballers who show the power football has to unite and uplift. Each person reminds us why Oxford United is about so much more than just what happens on the pitch.
“This was a day none of us will forget. The photograph is a symbol of who we are: a Club rooted in community, driven by its people, and united in every sense of the word.”
Oxford United would like to thank Victor’s Bar & Restaurant for providing drinks and canapés for the guests. We would also like to thank Westgate Oxford for their support with making this team photo possible.
