Skip to main content

Black and white photo of Ian Porterfield's winning goal for Sunderland Football Club in the 1973 FA Cup Final

A new research project will capture fans’ memories of Sunderland football club going back to the 1950s, 60s and 70s.

Researchers from our Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences would particularly like to hear the memories of women fans of the club.

Many male fans have already come forward to be interviewed, sharing fascinating memories of being a Sunderland fan when they were younger.

Memories

Who took you to your first game? What were your first impressions of Roker Park? Who were your favourite players? What do you remember of the FA Cup triumph in 1973?

The project is a collaboration between Durham University and the Foundation of Light, funded through the National Lottery Heritage Fund. It is part of the Coals to Goals project at the Foundation.

Taking part

The recordings will be used for research at Durham University and by the Foundation of Light in its community work with fans and in schools. Interviewees can choose to remain anonymous if they wish.

If you would like to take part, you are invited to talk about your experiences as a fan. These are informal conversations lasting an hour or so and can take place in your own home, at the Foundation of Light or over the phone. Please do share the details with anyone who may be interested.

Find out more