Everton Football Club is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the construction of its state-of-the-art stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock. This ambitious project not only promises to transform the club’s match-day experience but also seeks to capture and celebrate its rich history and community spirit. One of the standout features of the new stadium will be a commemorative fan wall, designed to immortalize both past and present players in a unique and engaging way.
Honoring Club Legends Through a Commemorative Wall
The fan wall, dubbed “The Originals,” aims to pay tribute to the legends of Everton Football Club—individuals who have significantly impacted the team’s history and embodied the spirit of the Toffees. According to a club statement, these are players who have fostered a strong connection with supporters and demonstrated a profound understanding of what it means to be part of Everton.
Among the names that will grace this wall are legendary figures such as Dixie Dean, the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, and the revered trio known as the “Holy Trinity”—Alan Ball, Howard Kendall, and Colin Harvey. Other notable inclusions will be Brian Labone, a player celebrated for his commitment and skill, alongside prominent figures like Bob Latchford, Graeme Sharp, and Neville Southall, who holds the record for the most appearances in the club’s history.
Celebrating Diversity and Community Involvement
The wall will not only commemorate past heroes but will also feature current club stalwarts. Seamus Coleman, the only active player to be recognized, will join the ranks of Everton’s greats. Furthermore, the club aims to reflect its diverse legacy by honoring its first black captain, Kevin Campbell, and fan-favorite Tim Cahill. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that all supporters can see themselves represented in the club’s storied history.
Engaging Fans with Mosaic Artwork
One of the most innovative aspects of the fan wall is the opportunity for supporters to be part of the artwork. Fans can purchase a personalized stone that will be incorporated into a stunning mosaic displayed on the river-facing side of the stadium. This initiative follows the success of the Everton Way project, which allowed fans to commemorate their connection to the club through personalized stones outside the South Stand.
This approach not only fosters a sense of belonging among supporters but also signifies a broader recognition of the fan base’s role in the club’s identity. By allowing fans to submit photos for inclusion, Everton is creating a living tribute that evolves with each new generation of supporters. The initiative underscores the notion that the club is as much about its community as it is about its players.
Investment in the Future of Football
The new stadium is estimated to cost an impressive £760 million and is set to open next season, with a capacity of 52,888 seats. This significant investment reflects Everton’s ambition to provide a top-tier experience for fans while also enhancing its status within the footballing world. The recent connection of the western wharf to the dock system via the Leeds-Liverpool canal adds another layer of accessibility and engagement for fans visiting the new ground.
As the club prepares for this monumental transition, the commemorative fan wall stands as a testament to Everton’s commitment to honoring its past while embracing the future. It invites fans to not only witness the evolution of their club but also to participate in its ongoing narrative, ensuring that every supporter has a place in the heart of the stadium.
This blend of history, community, and innovation promises to make Everton’s new stadium a landmark not just for football, but for the culture and spirit of its supporters. As construction progresses, the anticipation builds not just for the unveiling of a new home but for a renewed sense of belonging among Evertonians, past, present, and future.