Gaffer shares heartfelt message ahead of Hemel friendly

The Bees are in action tomorrow against Hemel Hempstead in the annual Spencer McCall Invitational Trophy at Vauxhal Road, kick-off 3pm. Tickets can be purchased here.

In the 2024 pre-season trophy, the Bees beat the Tudors 3-1 thanks to a Nicke Kabamba hat trick.

Spencer McCall was a talented footballer who very sadly passed away in 2021 at just 26 years of age, and was a favourite of not just Hemel fans, but Barnet manager Dean Brennan.

He had been battling a rare form of bone cancer, Ewings Sarcoma – and in honour of Spencer’s brave fight, all ticket proceeds will go to Sarcoma UK.

When asked about his memories of “Spenny”, The Gaffer shared some touching words:

This Saturday’s game vs Hemel is always an extremely special day for me and all The Tudor Army.

At the end of every season Dave Boggins & myself chat about the date for The Spencer McCall memorial cup. We have always used this game to celebrate Spencer’s life and we will do the same again this Saturday.

Personally, I miss and think about Spenny all the time, I speak with his Father Gary and his family on the regular, and we always reminisce about Spenny and all the good times we all spent together.

Spenny was such a bright and honest character, he had that calm and loving nature.

As a player, he was a technician with an excellent football brain, he had that Pires style about him, his football IQ was class, he was a key player in that Hemel team, he scored and created plenty of goals us.

I always remember our tactical conversation that we had all the time. Spenny was always looking to improve all aspects of his game, he was a joy to manage and I know you’re looking down on us right now questioning my tactics and our playing style – and there is no doubt you are right son.

Spenny, you are always in our thoughts and prayers, we love and miss you.