SPIREITES WORLD caught up with a hectic but very emotional STEVE BLATHERWICK after his testimonial match against former employers Nottingham Forest. Read the highlights here.
The crowd have gone Steve, quite an emotional afternoon.
I thought I was fine because it's been a long time since I retired now. I had to wait until today to get some closure on it and I've got to say there was a few tears there.
What did you feel like this morning?
More nervous than ever, I've played in some big games and a felt a little sad too. I've not watched many matches since, but when your head still thinks you can play but your body says it can't, it's hard. I'm glad to get some closure.
Well the day started with a mini game played between Hucknall and a Chesterfield Academy side. In the Hucknall side was your two lads and one of them scored?
Yes I was really proud and Charlie got both and I won't hear the last of that. I'm coaching them a little and it's me putting a little back and just seeing them play was fantastic.
That was a prelude to the main feature against Nottingham Forest.
Chesterfield were the better team, some of the new signings looked good, Jack Lester in particular. I had an old friend call me Alan Fettis and he asked me if the chief was still playing and I said he was and I'm proud of the fact he's still playing.
Chesterfield fielded two sides today.
Yes there was some good players on show today. I was impressed with Jamie Jackson, and Jamie Lowry I think he's going to be a great little player.
That's the testimonial match ended but that's not the end of the testimonial events.
No, we are having an evening with Steve Blatherwick and old players which will be on the 4th October at the Winding Wheel. A corporate dinner will be held at the Sheffield Park Hotel with Nobby Stiles as the guest speaker on the 1st November. Also I'm holding a Golf Day but we are not to sure when and where it will be held yet.
How's the back which of course led to your premature retirement?
Not too good at the moment, I've just had another scan which wasn't the best. There's more injections to come hopefully I won't have an operation because of the risks and I'm starting a business now. It's a way of putting amateur players in touch with physio's, consultants etc and it'll be called Fit for Football. My brother and I have set a Spanish property company and I have a few contacts there. Details on the website www.blathers.co.uk
Sounds like you have exciting plans for the future and it was lovely to pay homage today.
I've had a special relationship with the fans and it's just sad to end it this way.
We wish you well.
Thanks very much.
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