In the upcoming Europa Conference League last-16 match against Ajax, Aston Villa will proudly display a children’s hospice’s name on their shirt fronts due to restrictions on their primary sponsor, BK8, by Dutch advertising laws, as initially reported by the Express & Star.
This isn’t the first instance of such support; the same hospice, Acorns, was featured on Villa’s jerseys from 2008 to 2010 and expressed excitement about this occasion coinciding with Villa’s 150th anniversary.
Aston Villa revert to children’s hospice for sponsorship in Conference League
The hospice has seen steady support from Villa, with team members frequently visiting to hand out gifts during festive seasons such as Christmas and Easter. During an earlier match in the Netherlands against AZ Alkmaar, which ended in a 4-1 victory for Villa, the team donned shirts promoting the Aston Villa Foundation, a gesture they are pleased to echo with Acorns in their forthcoming match.
With the game in Amsterdam set to begin at 17:45 GMT, the hospice acknowledged the significance of this support, expressing profound gratitude towards the team and its supporters.
“Being showcased on such a grand stage not only raises awareness of Acorns but also shines a spotlight on our care for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions on a platform watched by millions across Europe,” stated Trevor Johnson, the hospice’s chief executive.
This exposure, Johnson noted, is invaluable for highlighting the vital care they provide and will assist in reaching more families requiring their support.
