The father of a teenage footballer who died suddenly has described the moment Celtic scored during a tribute to his son as an “unbelievable touch.” Aidan McCabe, from Cumbernauld, passed away last week at the age of 17. The former Airdrie FC youth player had been with several clubs in the west of Scotland and was a devoted Celtic supporter.
Tribute at Celtic Park
His father, Graeme, had asked Celtic supporters to join the family in a minute's applause on the 17th minute during the Champions' match against Dundee United. The tribute saw an image of Aidan displayed on the Celtic Park screens as fans applauded, and Camilo Duran scored a goal to put the Bhoys in front.
An emotional Graeme thanked Celtic for the moment, saying it gave his family an “unforgettable memory.” He said: “The tribute to my beloved son, Aidan, was perfect and the goal on 17th minute was an unbelievable touch. We have thousands of memories of my beautiful boy. But thanks to the club and ultimately my fellow supporters we have been given another unforgettable memory to hold dear to our hearts.”
Celtic's Invitation
Graeme revealed that Celtic had reached out to the family and invited them to Wednesday night's match in memory of Aidan. He said: “Late on in the day Celtic FC reached out to us to attend the match on Wednesday night. It worked out perfect. Karen, my son Matthew and I were welcomed and given seats and the dignity and care shown to us was humbling. To be standing honouring my son, and then to score on the 17th minute, is an overwhelming moment. We are all lost for the proper words to describe the roller coaster of emotions we've experienced. The kindness, understanding, patience and love extended by the Celtic support was absolutely off the charts. Total strangers, dignitaries, people from farther afield, coaches, players, ultras, everyone!”
Tributes Across the Football Community
The Parkhead tribute came days after Aidan's former youth clubs united to honour him. He had spent time at Airdrie FC with their 2009 youth squad, before joining Cumbernauld Colts and Rossvale FC. Airdrie Community Club held a minute's applause for their former player before every game involving their age group on Saturday. Photographs showed youngsters, coaches and referees gathered around the centre circle for the tribute.
Aidan's mother was “touched” by the gesture and thanked the teams. She wrote: “That was so touching for the teams to do this, my sincere thanks. He was always always football mad from a tot. Give your kids an extra kiss and cuddle.”
Further tributes included a minute's silence at Harestane AFC 2009's match against Stirling Albion and Third Lanark U19's clash with Giffnock SC U19s on Saturday. Dullatur Golf Club, where Aidan was a member, announced its club flag would be flown at half mast in his memory. Airdrie FC also expressed their sadness and sent condolences.
Aidan's parents spoke of his love of football as they thanked his former club. His mother added: “Thanks Airdrie FC for remembering my beautiful boy. He played many a game at the stadium over the years. There's no words to describe the shock and grief. Football was his life, he was a 6 feet 7 inches centre back and was the fittest boy ever. It is just so unfair. I appreciate everyone’s lovely words for my gorgeous boy.”
