A partnership lasting over 20 years is something that’s hard to come by across the world of business in general let alone in football.
Which is quite literally why the partnership between the Dons and Sports Interactive is so special. Starting from the Combined Counties League when we played on park pitches to present day at Plough Lane in the Cherry Red Records Stadium, we’ve proudly adorned SI and Football Manager on our shirts over the past 21 years.
It stands alone as the longest-running shirt sponsorship in English football history, underlining the value in maintaining relationships with those who were with you from day one. Our Life Vice-President and co-founder of AFC Wimbledon, Ivor Heller and Sports Interactive’s Studio Director Miles Jacobson were there at the very start and in March spoke with great passion about progressing together as one.
WATCH OUR CAPTIVATING COMPILATION VIDEO OF OUR SPORTS INTERACTIVE CELEBRATION EVENT BELOW!
This was then typified by several former players - who created memories to last a lifetime in the shirts - when they spoke to us about the memories that have been made along the way. Names ranging from Jon Main to Lyle Taylor all picked out their favourite jerseys, which were notably worn for play-off finals and big away wins.
Community is central to everything that Wimbledon and Sports Interactive do – and this was summed up by the popular raffle which was held in aid of the our very own Foundation, raising vital funds to help continue our sporting outreach aimed at local people.
Overall the event was a great way to celebrate not only what has been achieved but also the fact that the partnership is only going to get stronger as we continue to move forwards together. Our thanks again go to Sports Interactive for supporting us no matter what. Here’s to the future!
YOU CAN REWATCH EVERY INTERVIEW FROM OUR ‘TWO DECADES TOGETHER’ SERIES ON OUR OFFICIAL YOUTUBE CHANNEL BY CLICKING ON THIS LINK.
PIC: Nigel Keene (Pro Sports Images)
