When Ballymena United step out onto the pitch for Sunday's Irish Cup final one man will be at the forefront of their thoughts.
Don Stirling, or Mr Ballymena United as he was affectionately known, sadly passed away at the start of the season.
The 83-year-old was a very popular figure in Irish League circles and held numerous roles with his beloved Sky Blues including secretary and then vice-chairman.
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His passing has left a huge void at the club but there has been a part of Don supporting United all season after the club in a touching gesture, incorporated his signature on the back of the shirts for the current campaign.
It is a fitting tribute to a man, who not only was a great servant to his club, but also the wider football community, and
Sky Blues boss David Jeffrey says Don will be fondly remembered on Cup final day.
“Don’s passing was tragic...he was Mr Ballymena United," he said.
"What that man did for the club, alongside our former chairman, Mr Taggart, is remarkable.
“Don was instrumental in Bryan and I coming to Ballymena United along with John Taggart.
“One of the loveliest stories is when we went to Malmo when Don celebrated his 80th birthday.
“We had a team meeting, but it was set up as a tribute to him. That was the only time when we could really do something special for someone who was so unassuming, humble and quiet in the background.
“It was always about the players, but this was the one opportunity we took to give Don recognition within the club from the people who he meant so much to.
“We have Don’s signature on the back of our shirts to remember him and we have been in regular contact with his partner Marlinda, who is overjoyed and ecstatic when we were successful in getting to the Cup Final.
“He continues to be remembered with great fondness and I have no doubt he will be remembered most fondly on the day of the Cup Final.”
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