CELTIC VIEW, VOL. 38, ISSUE 3

FANS NEED EURO EDUCATION - MICHAEL KELLY (A.I.C.S.C.)

"Education, education, education", went the slogan coined by New Labour several years ago as it climbed to power in Britain, ending many bleak years of Tory rule. Three years ago, another enthusiastic young leader took over the reins of power, not at 10 Downing Street, but at 95 Kerrydale Street and Martin O'Neill brought a bright, new dawn to all Celtic supporters, again ending years of 'blue' rule. 'New Celtic,' you might say, was born. However, Martin might well wish to adopt the catchphrase as his own now as he points out that the Celtic support might do with a bit of educating on the nuances of European football. Well, there's no better man for the job. After all, he has taught us several valuable lessons in the past few years.

We have certainly had the odd history class or two and, what's more, those history books from which he has taught us have been re-written on several occasions: first treble in decades, first back-to-back league wins in 20 years, first European semi-final in 29 years. School was never this much fun! Maths is another subject in which we have improved under the tutelage of Master O'Neill: records for points won, goals scored, undefeated domestic and European runs at Celtic Park have certainly tested our skills at memorising the statistics and figures which underscore the success we have now come to accept as the norm.

Geography was not one of my favourite topics at school, but I have acquired a new thirst recently after a three-year tour of parts of Europe we never got to visit on any school trips that I can remember. Indeed, I've never known an adventure to equal what we have enjoyed this season. However, extra classes in other disciplines may well be required for some. One might have thought that a European semi-final would have brought out the very best in us all, but I feel some failed to obtain full pass marks last Thursday night. Maybe it was a touch of complacency stemming from the famous victories over Blackburn, Celta, Stuttgart and Liverpool or maybe we have attracted a growing band of supporters to the 'big' games who are not as familiar with how Celtic supporters normally conduct themselves, but I felt the backing the players should have enjoyed was just not there in the same way it was for the likes of the Juventus and Valencia games last season.

Far be it from me to tell people what way they should behave when they take their seats, but at times last week it was almost as if some were expecting us to walk all over a competent Boavista team and the atmosphere seemed to reflect that. In particular, the barracking Neil Lennon received was as difficult to comprehend as it was abhorrent. It is sad that any Celtic player is rounded on by his own crowd, let alone one who gives so much to the team and who is so proud to wear the Hoops. Bad enough that he has been exposed to such treatment at Windsor Park, Ibrox and other SPL grounds, but to take it from your own must hurt like hell. Neil and the Bhoys deserve a lot better for their heroic efforts so far this season and I am sure that they will do their best for us if we can show them continued support "over and over".

It has been a tough season for what is a small squad in terms of the European scene and the players have been magnificent under Martin's guidance. Now we are just one game away from an historic final and a chance to seize glory. Hopefully another history lesson is not far away and the records can be re-written once more, as we bid to become the first club from Scotland to win the UEFA Cup, the first to win two European trophies. So, seize the moment, Bhoys! This is your chance to become true Celtic legends and be revered for years to come by us, the supporters. Oh, and let's have 3-in-a-row while we're at it, eh? On the subject of fresh starts and new beginnings, which I touched on earlier, it is with pleasure that I mark the fifth anniversary of the founding of the Association of Irish Celtic Supporters' Clubs. The association was founded so that the interests of Irish supporters in areas such as tickets and travel could be effectively represented and fought for.

It was also with the objective of protecting the strong Irish connections with the football club, which we felt were in danger of being undermined at the time. Today, we can proudly reflect on an effective and strong body that, while still in the very early stages, provides a voice for Irish supporters and that attempts at all times to promote Celtic within Ireland and strengthen our support over here. Hopefully, we can continue to work hard for all those Gaels who, with such dedication, cross the water in their thousands to the Celtic College of Continuing Education...

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CELTIC VIEW, VOL. 38, ISSUE 26

SUPPORTER'S COLUMN - MICHAEL KELLY (A.I.C.S.C.)

In 2002, Irish Celts were no strangers to the blight of sectarianism and the evil of those corrupted by it. No one needs reminding of the sick death threat received by Neil Lennon for the apparent crime of being a Celtic player about to captain his country in Belfast. Former Celt Anton Rogan had previously been the victim of abuse from the Windsor Park terraces but the menacing intimidation, together with 'R.I.P.' slogans daubed on the walls of the Lurgan man's home town, brought things to a new low.

In July, we saw the tragic death of young Gerard Lawlor, who was shot while walking home in his Celtic jersey. This is in addition to numerous other attacks on those who wear a Celtic jersey in public. Nor is the problem confined to Ireland, as those travelling on Irish supporters' club buses returning from a game earlier in the season will testify.

An attack from occupants of a passing car narrowly avoided causing serious injury or death but, despite witness reports, no charges have been brought and it appears the aggressors will get away with this. I believe it is worth highlighting some of these instances in the current climate of raids on Celtic pubs, Irish flags being confiscated from away grounds, a proposed banning of the sign of the cross, talk of banning Catholic schools and other such daft measures which the great and good believe will bring the blight of sectarianism to an end. It should be clear to anyone that such a deep-rooted problem is not going to be solved easily and that a wide-ranging and inclusive discussion is required to change opinions.

However, naive and misguided proposals such as the above should be consigned to the waste basket where they belong. Indeed, many of them appear to me to be sectarian in themselves and an altogether retrograde step in a 21st century society. While we're at it, let's add the suggestion from one of Glasgow's top lawyers that Celtic and Rangers jerseys should be outlawed. While the removal of all blue and oran...sorry, "tangerine" jerseys from our streets would be a welcome change, surely this is as clear an example as any of some of the nonsense surrounding the current debate. For me, the messages emanating from the Scottish Executive are unclear and I think most of the difficulties stem from the word 'sectarian' not being clearly defined. We all know what racism, sexism etc all connote, but media, legislators and others are freely using the word sectarian without, it seems, there being any common consensus on what the word means.

Vincent Smith of the Glasgow Bar Association has already highlighted this difficulty. So far, you might think that being a Catholic and practising your faith by making the sign of the cross or sending your child to the local Catholic school is putting you on the road to sectarianism. For others, the display of the flag that flies high over Paradise in honour of the club's roots and which was used prominently in the doomed Euro 2008 bid also puts you in that bracket. Similarly, the expression of sympathy with the Irish nationalist or republican cause appears to be included in the popular definition of 'sectarian'. Some clarification is clearly required so that informed and constructive debate may take place as to the way forward. Until that happens, it will be difficult for some Celtic supporters to be anything but sceptical about the current process and where it is going.

The coverage of incidents at the recent Celtic Christmas party in Gateshead by the Daily Record has provoked much debate and stirred up a lot of anger among Celtic fans and, if recently published sales figures are correct, it is clear that Celts are choosing to hit the newspaper where it hurts most. There are serious questions to be posed of the conduct of the paper's staff on the night in question in provoking the story rather than reporting on it and they sank to a new low with their 'Thugs and Thieves' headline the following day.

Martin O'Neill has, typically, done the right thing in backing his players and it will be interesting to see if and when the players are cleared whether we get a seven-page special on that together with a full apology.... Don't hold your breath, folks! For too long we have put up with nonsense from this tabloid - from the Fergus McCann/Saddam Hussein incident to over-the-top 'Celtic in Crisis' style reporting on any sign that the O'Neill Empire might be crumbling.
The A.I.C.S.C. would like to think that all Celts would be sensible enough to choose wisely when they buy their newspaper and we would endorse the current "bhoycott". We have the power to show what we think and make a stand.

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CELTIC VIEW, VOL. 38, ISSUE 29

NO LEAKS AT PARKHEAD JOHN GALLAGHER (A.I.C.S.C.)

The days of standing on the terraces are long gone, the old Jungle consigned to the history books, and now Celtic Park is one of the best stadia in Europe. The Celtic website last year ran a poll asking how many people wanted the South Stand modernised and rebuilt and 99% said yes. But what you'll not find is a survey asking what supporters want in and around the outside of the stadium. For the Irish support travelling to Parkhead, it can be a mass operation with boats, planes and buses all organised to get to the match on time. However, after two or three hours stuck on a bus you will be in big trouble if you're in a hurry to (how do we put it delicately?) relieve oneself. While the bus park was a welcome development after years of campaigning, little since has moved on.

It still resembles a forgotten about building site. Incidentally, on the subject of the bus park, why can there not be a designated area for buses that have to make the mad dash down the M77 to catch the ferries directly after the game? Why not a simple bus sign or card scheme that supporters' clubs could sign up to, even if there was a registration fee of £20-30. It would be of great value, especially for the drivers who are always up against the clock, especially in the dark winter months. Now back to the toilets, seriously where can you go? Nowhere! If you come from Coalisland, Coatbridge, or Coventry the problems the same, the cops are everywhere in their nice shiny, yellow bibs and it is, of course, an offence to take a leak in public.

Anyone brave enough to take a chance needs two lookouts and a fast getaway car at the ready! Some may laugh or ask, "Who cares?" but in the year 2003 it is a disgrace and should not be tolerated. With the amount of families, women, children and disabled going to games, decent outside facilities are non-existent. Celtic recently agreed to open the Jock Stein Stand on match days from 9.30am to 12.30pm for toilet facilities and food but, realistically, who is this going to help? I reach the coach park for most games at 1.00pm and there is never more than 10 buses in it. The AICSC has been campaigning for decent facilitates for years but the pleas seem continually to fall on deaf ears.

The area around the stadium is vast and underdeveloped so what is there to prevent the building of three or four large toilet blocks and a cover charge fixed. The facilities would pay for themselves in the long run. It may be okay looking out of the window of the Jock Stein Lounge on match days, but it isn't so cosy if you're outside in the cold and rain. On a different note, the Superstore on match days can be a frightening place as people try to get in out of the rain and the store must be losing a fortune when punters get fed up with the crushing and walk out. Standing at a burger stall with the rain running down the back of your neck and red sauce all over your hands isn't a great advert for a day out at the match either.

The poor old programme sellers also having to brave the weather and count change and being surrounded on all sides by supporters, money wouldn't pay you for that thankless job. Why can't the money people on the board make the leap into the new century and build a 400-500 seated restaurant, which could be reduced in size on non-match days? If not, then lease the land to developers who will take on the job, run a complex with restaurants, toilets, and locker facilities and create a Celtic village. It's not pie in the sky - it could and should happen. Most modern day football clubs are relocating to areas where they could do just what I have been talking about, but Celtic already has the space available and it is a massive resource, which the club is not tapping into.

Everyone knows that in this day and age we need the corporate sponsors and all the matchday hospitality deals etc, but the same thought should be given to the supporter who pays £400-£500 for his or her season book and the supporters who make the effort to travel long distances to Celtic Park four or five times year. They should all be valued as an important cog in the wheel, and treated with the same respect. The funny side of this is that any if Celt had been in the Big Brother House, at least they could have had a pee in the shower!

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CELTIC VIEW, VOL. 38, ISSUE 33

KEEPING THE CELTIC FAITH - FERGAL CHRISTIE (A.I.C.S.C.)

Growing up in Ireland and supporting Celtic would seem to most people outside of this island the obvious thing to do if you are a follower of association football. However, there have been and still are many obstacles and dangers associated with showing our love for this great club. Firstly, there are the obvious ones like being born and brought up in the six counties as I was myself. During the height of the troubles, it was virtually impossible to be seen wearing Celtic colours as this automatically gave your religion away and made you an obvious target for sectarian attacks.

Nevertheless, we kept the faith and it is testament to the love that Celtic Football Club has in this country that there are now Celtic Supporters Clubs thriving in all thirty-two counties of Ireland. We still have our usual team of begrudgers, though - those who cannot see past the English Premiership. Up until recently, the only football to be seen on Irish television was that from England and, in the eyes of a lot of the media and press over here, the only teams worth following were the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal etc. These people were ignorant of Celtic's history and the fact that the club had been set up to provide help for the countless Irish immigrants who had emigrated to the east end of Glasgow and who were despised and treated with contempt by the local natives.

These so-called football experts like nothing more than "having a dig" at Celtic, using the old and worn "Scottish football is second-rate" line. However, this season has, to some extent, made them "eat their words" due to the fact that the national TV. station in Ireland has been showing most of Celtic's away games in the SPL. More importantly, it has also followed the Bhoys in Europe, showing all the games live, home and away. So, roll on Liverpool next week - let's really show them who are Kings! The current board also has its part to play in maintaining the 'Irishness' at Celtic Park. Over the past few seasons, we have been asked to change the names of some of our supporters' clubs and have been told what songs we are allowed and not allowed to sing.

Many of the clubs are, in fact, named after great Irish leaders such as Wolfe Tone, Robert Emmet, William Orr, Michael Davitt (who laid a sod at the original opening of Celtic Park). These men were fighting for or defending the basic human rights of the Irish people, the same principal our club was formed on in 1888, and it is in celebration and commemoration of this that clubs feel proud to bear their names.

Which leads me onto another department within the club. Walking into any of the Celtic shops, it is becoming more difficult to find anything green to wear. We have every colour under the sun including brown, grey, black, jade and (wait for it) zinc!! Tell me, when did Celtic start playing in zinc? Come on - whoever is in charge of designing the Celtic clothing, get back to our traditional colours. As the line of a famous song goes, don't be ashamed of "the wearing of the green".

This year also celebrates 100 years of the hoops: 1903-2003. We have been told that the full hoops are coming back (they should never have been broken in the first place) but is this really the centenary of our unique jersey? Should the real centenary not be in two years time? After all, we have had a hoopless top for the past two years!

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CELTIC VIEW, VOL. 38, ISSUE 36

GREAT TIME TO BE A CELT - JIM GREENAN (A.I.C.S.C.)

I have been asked to write this article by one of my peers in the Association of Irish Celtic Supporters' Clubs. "Put a piece together, Bhoy", I was told, "sure, isn't there plenty to talk about." "Like what?" says I. "Well, like how about how the Daily Record used the war on Iraq to get out of apologizing for the scandalous 'Thugs and Thieves' accusation levelled at Joos, Johan and Bobby and, in reality, at all of us?" came the reply. "What about the even more scandalous racist chants at Bobo, Didier and Momo at the recent Old Firm games, or the decision by 'their' 12th man on the line to disallow Big Bad John's goal in the CIS Cup Final?" Yes, all serious matters in their own right, but maybe far too serious for this scribe at this precise moment.

These are great days (or should that be 'daze') to be a Celt - happy days and, with that in mind, I think that sentiment should be conveyed at this point in time. So, as I sit here waiting for some divine inspiration, I flick through the pages of this week's Celtic View. From front to back, I see nothing to set the brain into overdrive. So, out of pure frustration, I throw the View down on the desk in front of me and, in doing so, the magazine falls to the floor.

On picking it up, there staring at me on the fixture list page lying open in front of me are the three words that are going to help me through this mini crisis! Yeah, the words 'Inverness Caledonian Thistle' turn out to be the help I need. As for Sunday's result, I'm not so sure now about my inspiration, which came before that defeat! But, it isn't the end of the world - after all, the last time they beat us, we ended up UEFA Cup semi-finalists three years later.

Gutted, but not broken, the big two trophies are still there to be won and I'm sure the manager and players will be focused on this. Back to ICT - as if I want to now(!), but anyway here we go - those three words bring me back to a cold winter's night in 2000 and a certain 3-1 defeat. An awful night in the history of this great club had been recorded. The support, which had backed this club in every venture, felt betrayed (Sunday night's defeat was in totally different circumstances and you can be guaranteed no one will be calling for the head of Martin O'Neill!) and let down by the very people we loved - the Bhoys in the green and white Hoops! The dressing room fracas which went on at half-time that night has, as time has gone on, proven to be a blessing in disguise, though. And so it is to the big Aussie now plying his trade down Emmerdale Farm way that I say a big "Thank you, cobber!" By refusing to come out for the second half, he blew any chance John Barnes had of getting his Celtic through that night, thank God! The noise emanating from the dressing room then must have been awful for those within earshot.

However, contrast that to the TV interview with Big Bad John and Alan Thompson after last Thursday's UEFA Cup quarter final against Liverpool at Anfield. As the big fella apologises (you've just scored the two most important goals of the month JH, you've nothing to apologize for!) for missing the penalty at Hampden, you could hear quite clearly the noise bellowing out of the away dressing room.

What a difference a good manager and a few years makes! It was amazing to hear the sound of grown men thumping walls and cheering with pure delight. No boots or fisticuffs here. Yeah, these Bhoys were in euphoric mood. Since those dark days, we can safely say we have turned full circle. Yeah, they might have turned us over on Sunday, but this time circumstances were different. We are now going to places like Anfield and beating the "mighty Liverpool" in their own backyard after taking the scalps of Blackburn, Celta Vigo and Stuttgart along the way. Quite incredible when you sit back and think of it - we are now only 180 minutes away from a European final. 180 long minutes, but we all know this team has what it takes to go all the way and we'll be with you all the way.

As I said earlier, it really is a great time to be a Celtic supporter. We are now being rewarded for the loyalty shown by the support through the bad old days of the 1990s and, while not old enough to remember the glory days of the 60s, this current season must bring back happy memories to the older generation who have seen this all before. Oh yes, while on the subject of age, this bhoy was born on the 10th April 1963. So, unlike a lot of folk, my 40th can't come quick enough. All I ask now is please, Martin, Henrik, Bobo and the rest of the Bhoys, give this Bhoy the best 40th birthday present I could ever ask for! A Celtic victory on a European party night in Paradise! Hail! Hail!

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CELTIC VIEW, VOL. 38, ISSUE 42

I'M A CELTIC FAN ,GET ME A TICKET! ,DERMOT SANDS (A.I.C.S.C.)

Is it just me? Just everybody I know? Or is the whole Celtic-supporting world urging the days to fast-forward to the evening of Wednesday, May 21? An overwhelming feeling of euphoric, giddy anticipation has taken grip amongst the 'Tic faithful here in Ireland, much the same as it has in Scotland. Celts are suddenly starting to refer to each other in conversations and e-mails as Miguel, Juan and Francesca as opposed to Mick, Johnny and Frances.

'Sombrero Sunday' has served to intensify this process to the point where, by the time of the kick-off in Seville, I fully expect at least 70% of the Irish population to be fluent in Spanish, with many having also acquired a working knowledge of Portuguese. This, of course, will come as welcome news to the people in the East End of Glasgow who haven't understood a word we've been saying for years. Now at last we'll have a common language.

This fever I'm speaking about has reached such epidemic proportions over here that, what Irish Celtic fans mockingly refer to as, 'The Two Team Brigade', have re-emerged with a vengeance. Most readers will be familiar with this particular species of football fan and in Ireland they are more prevalent than the bricks at Ibrox (no need to re-read that, by the way!). Typically, firstly, they 'support' such Premiership teams as Liverpool or Manchester United and, traditionally, down through the years have ridiculed the SPL as a Mickey Mouse League. When I say 'support', of course, I refer to the majority of these fans shouting on their team from the comfort of the local pub and echoing the platitudes of the pundits on The Premiership on ITV or RTE.

Most of them will never have been to Anfield or Old Trafford. Their second team, of course, at the minute they claim is Glasgow Celtic, but seemingly this love for the club only emerges when Celtic are successful. Now, to be quite honest, I have no problem with genuine supporters of any and every side rowing in behind Celtic. Hopefully, Celtic's merchandising figures are going to be monumental in the coming weeks. It's great to see even people with only a passing interest in soccer generally coming out and supporting the Bhoys on this momentous occasion.

No, what gets on my goat, is that since Celtic have reached the UEFA Cup final every Tom, Dick, Harry, Paddy, Mary and Siobhan, who normally wouldn't look at Celtic if they were playing in their own back garden, is under the impression that genuine Celtic fans should be able to get them a ticket for the final. Oh, and possibly organise their transport and accommodation while we're at it! To resolve this dilemma for such people, I suggest organising a game show based on ITV's I'm A Celebrity, Get Me Out Of Here! The 'Tic version will obviously be entitled I'm A Celtic Fan, Get Me A Ticket! and will involve all the hopefuls having to go through a selection of gruelling exercises, which genuine Hoops supporters experience each season, in order to win two tickets for Seville .

A few examples might be as follows: ** Asking them to get up at all hours of the morning/night to travel every weekend, up to 40-plus times a season by ferry, bus, plane, car etc to watch their team, throughout Scotland and Europe. ** See if they can physically and mentally get through the thrilling highs and/or depressing lows each season can bring ** Demanding they hand over a large percentage of their income for the privilege of doing the above. Oh, and find an employer who doesn't mind you missing the odd Wednesday or Thursday for a mid-week game. ** Challenging them to find a life partner who is willing to put up with the above ** Finally, ascertain if they enjoyed the whole experience of the above so much that they want to keep doing it for the rest of their lives.

I know my little scenario is at the extremes but I just want to get across the kind of people I'd like to see getting a ticket for the biggest night in Celtic's long and illustrious history for over three decades. Well, there was that plus the fact that I thought it would be a great opportunity to see if I could swing a couple of tickets for myself and a couple of my mates!!! Any chance? Getting back to the euphoria and excitement generated by the team's fantastic achievement in Europe, thank goodness there is one man who's not getting carried away by it all and that's St. Martin of Kilrea, of course.

He had the Bhoys concentrating on the job at hand on Saturday with a 4-1 victory at East End Park and that will do our goal difference no harm at all. Also, to cap off another great weekend, Rangers drew against Dundee, and only got that courtesy of an own goal and three penalties!! The pressure's beginning to tell. What chance now a wee double for the Bhoys? Anybody got tickets for Killie?

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CELTIC VIEW, VOL. 38, ISSUE 44

GREENA AND WHITE ARMY ON THE MARCH - MIGUEL KELLY (A.I.C.S.C.)

Well, there was no danger of writer's block this week when it came to putting together a few words to preview the UEFA Cup final! Yeah, just read those words back slowly - 'UEFA Cup final'. Doesn't it do your heart good? It goes without saying that we are immensely proud of Martin and the players as they prepare for the big game in Seville. Indeed, it is particularly pleasing for Irish fans to see two Gaels central to Celtic's success, namely Martin himself and Neil Lennon. Central also to a couple of recent news stories, although I use the word 'story' loosely when referring to the mild frenzy over Martin's new contract. Funny how such things are seized on at a time when the club is playing so well, isn't it? You would almost think someone out there in media-land was trying to burst our bubble and throw us off course, wouldn't you? Paranoid? Me? Get away...! Of course, it was a complete non-issue; Martin's commitment to the club is evident.

However, let's hope that his commitment is matched by a financial commitment from the board to give him the funds he needs this summer to carry out the strengthening he has already said is required. A run to the semi-final was supposedly enough to make up for missing out on the lucrative Champions League. Well, we've done more than that and, with television revenue, a merchandise windfall and expected record sales of the new home strip all thrown into the pot, we will be waiting to see if Celtic can break the habit of a lifetime and build from a position of strength, rather than be happy with our lot. Unfortunately, the assault on Neil Lennon cast a shadow on the highs of the last couple of weeks and I'm sure he wouldn't want anyone to dwell on it too much. Suffice it to say, however, that we are fully behind him and condemn his assailants who will hopefully be brought to justice. Thankfully, Neil bounced back superbly in the Hearts match and his mental toughness cannot be questioned after such a turbulent season for him.

But, there's nothing like a European final to put such bad news in the background and, like myself, no doubt everyone is thinking of nothing but Seville. It really is incredible what the team has achieved this season. It has been said before (and will be again), but when you look at where we were when O'Neill took over and the complete turnaround he has made since, you have to take your hat off to the guy. Spending a relative pittance and with a comparatively small squad at his disposal, he has performed wonders. Whatever happens against Porto, we owe him, John Robertson and Steve Walford our gratitude. Thanks also to the players for what they have done. Their efforts have been remarkable.

A tough European campaign has been expertly negotiated, but they have also kept the home fires burning and brought us to the brink of a third successive Championship - but one which would surely be the sweetest yet! If we bring off this 'double', it will be one of the greatest achievements in the club's history - no doubt about that (so, no pressure at all, Bhoys!). But, as we say, "win, lose or draw" we'll put on a show when we take over Seville. I read somewhere that a local security chief expected about 4,000 of the green and white army in town. Bhoy, is he in for a shock! Planes, trains, automobiles, buses, mopeds - you name it and it has been commandeered to carry the faithful to this special pilgrimage. Unfortunately, thousands will go without a ticket, but such is the passion of the Celtic faithful that most simply want to go and savour the atmosphere and to tell their children and grandchildren, 'I was there'. Such is the manner in which this game has captured the imagination. In truth, it is 'our Lisbon.' For the generations starved of the kind of success we have craved and who have had to put up with years of mediocrity and perpetual underachievement, this is payback time and just reward for all those faithful who have stood by the club.

So, let's remember those bad times and celebrate these good, good times. While we're at it, let's not forget to raise a glass in memory to Jock and Bobby who were with us last time we reigned in Europe and who, no doubt, will be watching from above. Let's also remember all those great players who graced Paradise since then and who never had the chance to run out in a European final - I'm thinking of McStay, McGrain, Aitken, Burns, Bonner, Moravcik and countless others who, I'm sure, will be cheering the Bhoys on to glory! See you in Seville! Now, where did I put that sombrero...?

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CELTIC VIEW, VOL. 38, ISSUE 45

WE ARE MORE THAN JUST A CLUB - MICHAEL KELLY (A.I.C.S.C.)

Words do not come so easily this week. On the one hand, it is difficult to give voice to one's immense disappointment. However, it is proving equally problematic to express our deep gratitude to the management and players for their efforts and, what's more, our pride in them, in ourselves and in our club after the events of the last week.

The city of Seville was - according to legend - founded by Hercules. This tale seems entirely fitting, as the effort put in by the players in the Andalucian heat and, indeed, throughout the whole campaign was truly Herculean in nature. Porto, of course, prevailed, but we could have asked no more of the players who gave their all for the cause and came so tantalisingly close to glory. They should feel no shame, but know that we are grateful for the manner in which they have represented Celtic this year.

While I hesitate to call it a 'moral victory', as we have had our fill of these down the years and would readily exchange them all for the real thing, there is no doubt that the UEFA Cup has been tainted by the antics of the Portuguese. Furthermore, the volume of fans travelling, their impeccable behaviour and good humour, the hordes of green and white in the stadium itself and their display of loyalty at the end will have won us great support throughout the football world and made people sit up once more and recognise the great name of Celtic. Make no mistake, we are back and here to stay.

The supporters were simply superb. The sheer numbers in Seville itself and the atmosphere in the city will live long in the memory. Equally, the scenes inside the stadium would have given your goose pimples goose pimples! Even the Porto fans had to applaud the manner in which we stayed to show our appreciation for Martin and the Bhoys and I am sure football has not seen the likes before. To watch the inconsolable players and manager take the time to acknowledge our backing brought a lump to many throats and that moment represented all that was great about our club.

We might have lost the game, but it is about much more than the game. It is about a very special community, a very special family and a very special club. Ironically, in the despair of defeat, this great club enjoyed one of its most glorious moments. It was, in truth, a victory for the Celtic spirit and reinforced why (to steal the phrase from Barcelona) we are mes que un club - more than a club. Similar sentiments were evoked at Rugby Park on Sunday. Those brave players, mentally and physically wrecked, somehow summoned reserves of guts and character to bring us to within one goal of the Championship. We should not be surprised that they did so nor that Martin motivated them to such a marvellous display. However, it was not quite enough. Despite finishing empty-handed, and despite what other clubs might have achieved, 2003 will always be the year of Seville and is a season we can look back on as one in which we have made yet more progress under Martin and co.

The chase for European glory has probably inhibited our domestic development, with our rivals putting their feet up while we strived abroad, but who would give up the memories of this great run we have had? We have resurrected the fortunes of the club and are competing in the arena in which we made our name. Once more, people are talking about Celtic in positive terms, resulting in the sort of good publicity that money cannot buy. In the final analysis, we won more in terms of respect and reputation last Wednesday than any other team might have done in winning the domestic silverware. A corollary of all this is that we have raised the bar and inflated expectations for next year's Champions League, but such is the price of success and Martin and the players will be prepared to lead us forward once more.

However, funds simply must be made available to improve the squad during the summer. This is a crucial time when we must capitalise on our success and ensure that it lasts beyond the current playing staff, some of whom are soon going to be entering the twilight of their careers. As the players rest, the Board must now play its part.

In closing, I would like, on behalf of all the supporters, to thank Martin and the players for such a fantastic season. You have done the jersey proud. Thanks for the fantastic memories that we will cherish forever in our hearts (Blackburn, Vigo, Stuttgart, Liverpool, Boavista, beach-balls at Ibrox and samba in Seville) and for another marvellous chapter in the history of Celtic FC. We'll be there to cheer you next season when, together, we'll dream it all up again. Hail! Hail!

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CELTIC VIEW, VOL. 39, ISSUE 2

VIEW FROM THE STAND - MICHAEL KELLY (A.I.C.S.C.)

Well, the football's back at last.

The last few weeks of cold turkey have not been pretty and I'm sure we've all struggled to fill that Celtic-shaped hole in our lives that's appeared since late May. It is always a strange experience finding yourself on a Saturday afternoon not hoofing it up the road from Troon or Stranraer towards Paradise or sitting at home holding your radio at various angles and taking up bizarre yoga-like positions in an attempt to get some kind of signal that will bring match commentary into your home but still have you wondering what the heck that Chick Young was on about!

I understand that many of the faithful have re-discovered DIY or gardening, while others are touching base with their families and loved ones; just, you know, finding out what they've been doing for the last nine months while we've been wrapped up in the wonderful world of following Celtic! At times it isn't so bad and we, at least, have Wimbledon to provide plenty of fun, watching the English get hot and bothered over "our Tim" beating all sorts of no-hopers en route to the inevitable tanking that gives us all a good laugh as we see "Nice But Dim" disappear off the back pages and the washing powder ads packed away for another year.

This year, our interest in Wimbledon increased slightly as Martin himself made an appearance accompanied by the predictable media outcry over what he was doing there and not taking training....yawn! Rumours that club scouts had told him of some young, clean-cut English fella who hit the net more often that Larsson were unsubstantiated as we went to press...... Well, Henrik will be hitting the net for another year anyway. Let's not even start thinking about what happens after that, but at least for now we are able to pass the time considering who'll be playing alongside him for his closing season in Scottish football. Many names have been linked and theories (some more bizarre than others) have been exchanged, but all that ever matters is when you see a new bhoy (or two, or three) introduced at the press conference and signing on the bottom line. Still, it is good fun to speculate and we all do it. This year, we're all keen to see a couple of new faces. Not that the team needs a major overhaul - far from it. But, as I and others have said before, we cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of previous generations and rest on our laurels.

Rather, we should seek to capitalise on a position of some strength and take the chance to use the bigger profile that the European run has provided to attract a few names to bolster the squad and eventually replace some of the older players. On the subject of age, it is most encouraging to see some of the youngsters coming through on the pre-season tour and the likes of Kennedy, Beattie and Wallace have all shone.

With Smith and Maloney no doubt improving as players again this season, there is plenty of optimism and it is always good to see these bhoys come forward.
Last week, the AICSC were able to provide a much-needed Celtic fix to 1000 of our members and other guests at the Citywest Hotel in Dublin, celebrating our 5th Annual Charity Dinner in the company of Brian Quinn, David McNally, Martin O'Neil, Neil Lennon, Chris Sutton, Alan Thompson, Shaun Maloney and Guest of Honour, Tommy Gemmell. Once more, it was a fantastic occasion with the Irish supporters again demonstrating the passion and enthusiasm that exists in the land from which our great club sprung. The deafening roar that greeted the gaffer himself and the two minutes of singing as he stood at the podium unable to even begin to get his speech underway were quite breath-taking and left one wondering what would it have been like if he'd come in carrying the UEFA Cup!! As usual, Martin was as eloquent as he was passionate in his address to the AICSC and his gratitude for our support throughout the season, his happy memories of the European run and Seville itself and his determination to give us another season to remember were clear to all. Brian Quinn too spoke superbly well and endeared himself to many when he revealed his own Tyrone and Mayo roots.

Feeling at home among his fellow Celts, Brian certainly warmed to the occasion and was clearly taken aback at the atmosphere on the night. His powerful declaration that "we are more than a football club, we're a phenomenon" summed everything up for me. The scenes that night certainly proved it. It was also enjoyable to hear him testify as to the closeness of his relationship with Martin O'Neill. Comparing it to that between a horse and its jockey, he remarked that he certainly bore the marks from the stirrups over the last few years! Well, as long we win plenty of races this season, Brian, long may that continue! To extend the metaphor, I suppose we're now in the parade ring getting ready for another run. See you at the first fence on August 16th.
And have a look for the new AICSC banner that debuted at the recent Charity Dinner and which bears a special message to the players......

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Volume 39, Issue 6

Jim Greenan, AICSC

On Wednesday 30th of July the Champions' League qualifier against Kaunus officially got season 2003/04 started for Celtic F.C. - a season which we all hope will bring us more glory to match - or even beat - what happened on the Road to Seville '03. Winning this year's championship guarantees entry to the group stages of the following year's Champions' League. So, obviously winning the S.P.L. will be a priority but last season's escapades around Europe have whetted everyone's appetite for more.

The group stages are now a must for Celtic as a club both in financial terms and for our standing among the top footballing sides of Europe. This season will also be the last one that we will watch the great Henrik Larsson do his stuff in Paradise and, indeed, it was quite fitting that it was he who scored the first goal of this campaign. He has given us so much since Wim Jansen signed him back in the summer of '97 at a time when we were under so much pressure to stop the "10". Who will ever forget that great goal he scored on May 9th 1998 so that we could finally say "Cheerio 10 in a Row"? Or his goals against Rangers in the 5-1, the 6-2 and the day he got his 50th at Ibrox? Or all his goals in Europe? So many great memories culminating with his two magnificent goals in the UEFA Cup final. The man is an absolute legend in his own right. While at the game against Arsenal recently it was strange to see the Number 7 jersey being worn by someone else, notably Shaun Maloney, it will be a massive job for whoever takes on the permanent role of our next number seven. So much so that maybe retiring that jersey for a few seasons might be an option! Now, I'm not saying that Shaun isn't up to the job.

It's just that, at times when he was involved in the action against the Gunners, when you saw that Number 7 you expected to see the movement of Larsson. But Shaun is a different type of player and it is the support, I suppose, that will have to adjust to that fact come next May. It will not be easy for us all not seeing Henrik Larsson on the green grass at Celtic Park - that smile when he scores, arms wide out now that the tongue has been retired..... He has given so much to the club, so much to all of us at the peak of his career. He came back after the broken leg in Lyon to score 53 goals in the Treble winning season and came back from the broken jaw last year to score a classic Larsson goal in the CIS Cup Final, when he put his head in where some folk wouldn't put their feet. He really is the supporter on the field. He lives out all our dreams and, where as I know that this season hasn't really got going, I am constantly thinking of a day next May when we'll be gathered together to say "Thank you". Will there be a dry eye in the house? I don't think so. So, with that in mind, I really hope the "King of Kings" will go out with a bang and I have no doubt he will.

When does five not be worth a much as one (or should that read won!)? Last Saturday I noticed a gold star on the new Celtic away shirt. Now, you'll not have to be a rocket scientist to figure that one out. At last, the club is following the same lines as other elite clubs in Europe that have recognised their club's European Cup win by placing a gold star above their crests. Yeah, we know of others who have 5 stars, but give me our one anyday! Actually, thinking back a bit, wasn't "5 Star" the name of a band who in the late 80's came on the scene, had a couple of quick hits that have now been forgotten about, blew any money they made and ended up penniless? Any similarities between that "5 Star" and the other 5 stars (have they even got 5 stars left?!) is totally coincidental, I'm sure! I would just like to wish Martin and the Bhoys all the best for the coming season.

This team has really given us so many great days since Martin's arrival three years ago and I'm sure this year will be more of the same. It's not going to be easy as Saturday's result against the Pars proved, Calderwood and Nicholl's team put a lot of effort into last Saturday's match, pity they didn't do the same last May in Ibrox !

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March Edition Of The SHOOT

The UEFA Cup Final of 2003 was memorable for more reasons the one. Yes, Porto may have won the Cup, but Celtic F.C. and its supporters showed that, even in defeat, they could truly remained (as one famous Celtic song goes) “faithful through and through and restored a belief in many of what the beautiful game is all about. As the year drew to a close, both UEFA and FIFA took the unprecedented step of presenting the Celtic support with awards for fair play and for bringing colour and excitement to the competition. The signs of what was to happen in Seville’s Estadio Olimpico were in evidence a few weeks earlier after Henrik Larsson’s goal knocked Boavista out of the tournament.

It just also so happened that on the following Sunday Celtic were to meet their arch rivals Rangers in the most hotly contested derby in the world and the Celtic support turned up at Ibrox with beach balls, sombreros and some even braved to the cold weather to attend in their swimwear! What makes Celtic stand out from most clubs is the lengths its supporters will go to get to a game; no more so than the support from Ireland who travel in their thousands to Parkhead and beyond to follow the team.

In 1998, sections of the Irish support came together and formed the Association of Irish Celtic Supporters Clubs (A.I.C.S.C.) to preserve the much-cherished Irish identity of the club (the club was founded by an Irish priest to assist Irish immigrants in Glasgow who had escaped the Irish famine) and link together the vast numbers of supporters’ clubs and pool all their resources. Six years on the association has a solid base throughout the country. One of the mainstays of the Association has been its tireless work to get as many supporters as possible to all of Celtic’s European fixtures. Normally clubs were only used to getting up at 4.00am to catch buses for the Scottish ferry and make the long journey to Parkhead.

But, with the arrival of Martin O’Neill several years ago, the team and backroom staff have gelled together and the results they have achieved have seen fans becoming accustomed to European travel on a regular basis. Michael Kelly, Secretary of the A.I.C.S.C., gives his thoughts on the European run: “Undoubtedly the highlights of last season were the European trips organized by the A.I.C.S.C. to the various away games.

Seville was the peak of it all and it was with immense pride that I took my place on a 350 seater jet flying out for a two day trip to the Costa del Sol not to mention the hundreds of other members who made it out there on their own steam. A great experience, all made possible by our A.I.C.S.C. transport officers Jim Greenan and Aidan Digney, who I must thank for their sterling work” Many times Jim has to juggle his daily work routine about when a European trip comes up. The demand is so huge to try and deal with all the organizing that iss needed.

One trip that stands out in his mind was the visit to Stuggart: “A great trip all round and possibly the best of all our European forays of last year. There was a mixture of Celtic, Stuggart, St Pauli, and Borussia Dortmound fans mixing in the main square that day, with not a hint of trouble in sight - no surprise to any of us at all” Supporting Celtic is not a male dominated experience and the A.I.C.S.C. has many women members in their clubs.

Aisling Kane (Claddagh C.S.C. Galway) gives her thoughts on what supporting Celtic means to her: “Let me try and sum up the true meaning of supporting Celtic Football Club. To me they mean more than football, they are family. Apart from my marriage and the birth of my little Bhoy (God Jnr), Seville has been the greatest and most treasured memory I have experienced in my life so far and that includes receiving numerous degrees and career promotions.

As I stood there with my mam, dad, brothers, husband and my little Bhoy among 80,000 plus Celtic supporters in the roaring heat of 40ºC in Seville that day I realised what supporting Celtic was all about. Those magical moments in Seville is what possesses so many of us to travel week in and week out spending money and many hours traveling to sit in the rain and support Celtic regardless of whom they are playing. Something magical happened that day in Seville to every Celtic fan around the world that no amount of trophies could ever achieve. We were all so proud of how well our beloved Celtic played and how well our fans supported them. That day Celtic gained recognition from around the world that not only were they a world class team but also that they had the best supporters in the world.

That puts a meaning to me on why I have supported them since I was a young girl and why I spend so many hours traveling to see them. It is in our blood and we all live and breathe Celtic as they are not just about football, they are about family and everyone knows you would do anything in the world for your family. Celtic Football Club is the biggest and proudest family in the world.” Once again the passports will be dusted down for another European trip to Teplice in March. That aside, the association is making plans for trip to Las Vegas in the summer to meet up with their friends in the North American Federation of Celtic Supporters Clubs for their bi-annual Convention, not to mention Celtic’s proposed tour of the USA. It’s a tough life being a Celt!!

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Irish Celtic Pundit Gets It Ever So Slightly Wrong !
BY DERMOT SANDS.

Well folks its time for you all to put up with this weeks Celtic rant from over here on the mainland; Ireland, that is, of course. It is with as much regret as any other group of Tims that we prepare to say our farewells in a couple of month’s time to the phenomenon that is Henrik Larsson. As I was asked to write this months article for the Association of Irish CSCs, I thought it was about time I had to come clean on something. It is a terrible dark secret that I have tried to hide for years. It has haunted my every waking moment and now I’m going to reveal it and shock most of my friends and family.

It is this: Henrik, the first time I saw you play for the Hoops in that match up at Easter Road against Hibs, after the final whistle, I declared to three or four mates that I thought you were complete and utter, erm, “rubbish” was the word I think I used, but I can’t be too sure. I also followed that up with the bold prediction that you’d never be any good at Celtic!

Of course, I’ll have to set the scene here. A crowd of us had headed into the Abercorn Bar in Derry to watch the first league game of the new season and - as usual, on the first day of any new season - we were filled with optimism. In those days though, we had to dig deep for the optimism, as Rangers were heading for 10 in a row. Let’s face it; some of us were reaching Australia we were digging that deep.

Anyway, Henrik came on late on in the game and, with almost his first touch, he gave the ball to Chic Charnley, who duly dispatched it into the back of the Celtic onion bag to give Hibs the winner. Depression immediately set in amongst our group and most of the bar. In the beer fuelled, deeply analytical post-match “discussion”, I passed the disparaging remark about Henrik saying he would be a dud and also added that Wim Jansen’s real name should be “Win Nathin”, for good measure! (Sorry about that Wim).

With Neville Chamberlain like foresight, I had condemned my team, my manager and one of the most talented, loyal and prolific strikers we have ever seen, or will see play for Celtic. Then the weeks passed by and we really began to see what this Scandinavian genius was made of. The goal flow started to turn into a torrent. Not only was he putting them away though, he was setting up all the players around him to score as well. I started to feel pangs of guilt but comforted myself with the thought, “Ah, sure the lhads were all banjoed anyway, they’ll never remember what I said.

” There’s always one though, isn’t there? Always one person in the company who’ll remember everything and will never let you forget it to your dying day! In my case it was my mate Danny. He started to hit me with wee sly digs as that year wore on. “What about Larsson now Dermie, eh?” Of course, what could I say? I had to readily agree that Henke was rapidly turning into a legend, and that I had a worse eye for spotting football talent than either David Murray or Dick Avocado combined. Henrik just kept getting better and better and as the years have gone by “Elephant” Danny has never missed an opportunity to embarrass me for my sin.

Anytime he meets up with me over the years - whether it is over at Celtic Park for a game, or on a bus, or in a pub, or down the shops, or in mass, or at a wedding, or a christening or a funeral - the subject in the company comes around to Henke, I just know I’m for it! We’ve now all had the pleasure of following Henrik and Celtic all over Scotland, England and the continent watching me being joyously proved wrong every step of the way. As in Scotland, there is not a kid in Ireland who doesn’t know who Henrik Larsson is and wants to be him in the schoolyard when it comes time for the kickabout. (I include the teachers in that remark as well, by the way!).

The rest is history and still an ongoing living history, as Henrik just continues to break record after record and has stuck with Celtic in a most honorary fashion that is all too seldom seen nowadays.

So, Danny, I’ve made a public apology to the great man in the Celtic View, can you for Henrik’s sake let it drop?

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