Not being a huge fan of football myself, I’m sorry to say I’ve never heard of Stockport County. As it turns out after speaking to some of my more football-oriented friends and colleagues, I’m not exactly missing out. Stockport County, while probably a lovely group of people with delightful fans, apparently aren’t the biggest deal out there. Far from it, in fact.
Despite not being one of the most well-known or successful teams out there, they can claim to have some incredibly dedicated fans. Just take Akito Aoki, for example. The Japanese FIFAplayer recently chose to fly 6,000 Miles from Japan to UK just to watch Stockport County Play at Edgeley Park. Aoki first discovered the club playing FIFA nearly a decade ago, and decided they were the Team for him.
Credit: Stockport County FC “I like video games and I found Stockport County and I chose Stockport County,” Aoki told the BBC. “I have supported them for about eight to nine years but this is my first time at Edgeley Park. It has been very fun and I am staying here in Stockport for one week.”
As you probably know, Stockport County haven’t even been in a FIFA game for some time now, such is the extent of Aoki’s adoration for his team. I couldn’t tell you exactly when the Team stopped being a part of the games, but I do know that FIFA only covers the teams from England’s Football League, which stops at the fourth tier.
But that hardly matters. What does matter is that Aoki looks to have had an absolute belter of a time. He explored the Greater Manchester town, hit the pub, met up with other fans, and was given a real world-class experience from a Team who were clearly touched he’d traveled so far. Not only was he treated to a three-course meal before kick-off, but he even got the present the match ball to the referee. What an unforgettable day that must have been for the lad.
Fucking love this.
Young lad from Tokyo who’s obsessed with County is in the Bobby Peel with the lads. Just jumped on a plane for Bromley (h) no problem.
Aoki’s unique love for Stockport County has earned him something of a cult status among his fellow supporters, with locals absolutely loving the chance to Play host to the superfan. It’s actually properly heartwarming to see a story like this, especially what with everything going on in the world right now. Community on a global scale. Brilliant.
02-25-2020, 05:02 PM
Japanese FIFA fan Travels 6,000 Miles To See An Unexpected Team Play
Credit: Stockport County FC “I like video games and I found Stockport County and I chose Stockport County,” Aoki told the BBC. “I have supported them for about eight to nine years but this is my first time at Edgeley Park. It has been very fun and I am staying here in Stockport for one week.”
العرض الشجري