Sam Merrett

I first came into contact with Stix in August 2008 around my 16th birthday. Three weeks prior, I’d been diagnosed with a life-threatening bone marrow disorder called Aplastic Anaemia. One of my school teachers who was an Englishman, and big Spurs fan, knew I was a big Leeds fan. He got in touch with the club to see if they could do anything for me – that was where Stix came in. For a 16-year-old kid across the other side of the world in Adelaide, he organised a shoutout for me from Thom Kirwin and Eddie Gray on LUTV (in a 4-0 Carling Cup win over Crystal Palace which happened to be on my birthday due to the time difference). I was encouraged to respond to his email with the recording attached, which is still one of my prized possessions to this day. I didn’t hear anything initially, but about 3 weeks later, I received a package in the mail with a flag signed by the 08/09 first team, a certificate signed by Gary Mac, and a postcard from Stix saying that he would love to meet if I ever made it over to Leeds.
Fast forward to October 2019 (with an illness defeated and a few emails back and forth later in the 11 years between). I was travelling to Europe/UK for the first time, and I would not accept the trip passing without getting to Elland Road at least once. I was lucky enough to snag a ticket to a couple of matches – including the centenary match against Birmingham City. I got in touch with Stix to let him know I was on my way. He happened to be doing the stadium tour the morning of the match, so it was too perfect that I got to introduce myself afterwards. He seemed so taken aback and emotional at meeting me, which just shows how much he cares about people connected to Leeds United, no matter what way, whether it be great or small. My only regret is that we didn’t get a photo together, but it was very special moment for me (and my family vicariously through me) to finally meet the man who had such a big role in such a small gesture which meant so much. I truly feel that this played a big role in my love for and obsession with this football club becoming stronger.
Stix, I appreciate what you’ve done for not only myself, but for countless families connected to Leeds United. People like you are the heart and soul of this football club, more than any player or manager. I hope we meet again soon. MOT 💙💛🤍