HMS Ark Royal’s Sports teams the Ships company as a whole had such a good relationship with Stix prior to its decommissioning. HMS Ark Royal was affiliated to Leeds United and every time we visited Stix ensured we were extremely welcomed by going above and beyond his role. I remember lining the pitch at Leeds United for the Bristol City game in 2011 for Remembrance Day, the reception we got was amazing and all arranged by Stix, he welcomed us into the players’ lounge after the game and ensured a signed shirt was sent back to the Ship, all those that attended wanted for nothing that day and felt like royalty.
Anytime we were in need, of anything he would go above and beyond to support us. HMS Ark Royal reached the final of the Royal Navy Cup and Stix provided us with a Leeds United Strip to wear in the final and for the team to keep the shirts as a memento with the Ship decommissioning.
Stix visited HMS Ark Royal on her final stop in the UK prior to decommissioning and I’m pleased we managed to get him up to Newcastle to hopefully show him our appreciation.
Nothing was ever too much for him, his tireless work ethic and passion for supporting and welcoming others was a pleasure to see. He is one of the good humans on this earth and we thank him for all his support over the years to the armed forces community.
Stay safe
Stix
Physical Trainer, Matt Shortt
HMS Ark Royal
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