Macklin Motors and Hibs Help Put a Smile Back on the Face of Young Fan
As a proud partner of Hibernian Football Club, we are delighted to have the opportunity to help with initiatives in the community that they support.
Last season, we were made aware of an incident which we simply had to get involved with.
In November 2021, young Hibs fan Jacob was on his way to his first ever match at Hampden Park to watch his club take on Rangers in the Premier Sports Cup Semi-Final.
His dad shared a photo of Jacob on Twitter in his Hibs gear, and unfortunately, he became the target of a torrent of online abuse from rival fans. This obviously ruined what would have been a truly special day for father and son.
With the help of the football club, Macklin Motors organised for broadcaster and Hibs superfan Gordon Smart to surprise Jacob at his home with an invitation for a day out that he would never forget.
Watch the video below to find out more.
Jacob was invited to Hibernian’s training ground where he enjoyed a kick-around with the team. He also received a pair of boots signed by his favourite player, Martin Boyle and was presented with tickets to the Premier Sports Cup Final. We hope that this surprise helped put a smile back on the face of the young supporter.
Unfortunately, online abuse is widespread across social media platforms, with individuals able to spread offensive messaging instantly and anonymously, with no repercussions.
Football is played and watched by millions of people across the globe - it should have the power to unite fans who just want to celebrate the sport. Hopefully, more can be done to tackle online abuse as more sophisticated technologies emerge.
The Scottish football authorities are working hard to kick online abuse and discrimination out of the sport – something which we back fully.
For all the latest news regarding our partnership with Hibernian Football Club, keep an eye on our Newsroom.