Brechin City play Aberdeen FC in a memorial match for the late David Will.
The former Brechin City FC chairman, who was also the SFA president and FIFA vice-president, died from cancer last year.
Now, in tribute to Mr Will, the club has chosen to have the emblem of Cancer Research UK emblazoned on its shirts instead of opting for a lucrative sponsorship deal from a company.
City player Charlie King was at the club yesterday to try on the strip, which will be officially unveiled before tonight’s match.
Club chairman Ken Ferguson said, “David Will was renowned for his work on the global football stage, but Brechin City was always his team and, no matter where in the world he was, he would call me every match day at 4.45 to check the results. He did so much for this team, and for world football, and we wanted to show our support for the fight against the disease that killed him.
“Thanks to some great local support we’ve been able to offer our shirt sponsorship deal to Cancer Research UK for free. We’re very proud to sport Cancer Research UK on our strips and we’re looking forward to helping them raise more money for the fight against cancer.”
The Glebe’s Trinity Road stand is also to be renamed and dedicated to the memory of Mr Will.
“We hope there will be a good attendance in recognition of Mr Will’s dedication and service to Brechin City, Scottish and international football,” said Mr Ferguson.
“Football fans are familiar with Barcelona’s sponsorship of UNICEF, and Aston Villa have the name ‘Acorns’ on their shirts in support of a children’s hospice, so we’re very happy to be joining them in flying the flag for a really worthy charity.”
Team captain Neil Janczyk added, “Most of us in the team know someone who has been treated for cancer or has died from it, and of course David Will was a really inspirational figure to us, so we’re pleased to be playing in these strips. It feels good to have the charity’s name on our shirts. I think it’s something more of the bigger clubs should consider.”
Mark Colley-Davies from Cancer Research UK said, “Brechin City FC are going to be a huge help to us through raising awareness and funds to help beat cancer. David Will was a much-loved figure, but sadly his battle with the disease was not unique.”
The game kicks-off tonight at 7.45.
Aberdeen are fielding their first team and will also represented by a full complement of directors.