Eagles Mad Reverend Charts Clubs 100 Years
A book marking the Eagles' centenary - written by the club's chaplain • promises to take enthusiasts on a journey from the football club's early days to its Premiership glory.
Reverend Nigel Sands' book, 100 Years of Crystal Palace Football Club, charts the Eagles' highs and lows, from its humble beginnings as the Glaziers in the Southern League Second Division, right up to the dying moments of last year's relegation dogfight.
The book explores the club's first 100 years in lavish detail, starting with its first game, as well as examining the many personalities.
Rev Sands is a lifelong supporter of Crystal Palace and, as well as acting as the club's chaplain, is also its official historian.
"I'm in my 60th season as a Palace fan," says Croydon born Rev Sands, who now lives in Newbury, Berkshire. "1 first went with my dad just after the war, I'm a third generation Palace fan and my son, Tim, who is also a dedicated supporter, is fourth generation." Rev Sands, now aged 66, became the chaplain for Crystal Palace at around his 30th season as a supporter.
He says he was one of the first football club chaplains in the country and now holds the honour of being the longest serving one in the country.
Rev Sands has been writing in the club's programme since the early 1970's and has also written numerous books about the club.
He adds: "The club was experiencing some difficult circumstances in the mid 1970s and I was informally invited by the board to become the club's chaplain. Football in general was at a low ebb and Palace were dealing with relegation and other difficult circumstances."
"Having a chaplain is no different to having one at any other place of work really. I am there to help everyone at the club. It includes the players, directors and stewards."
"I carry out the same pastoral duties as any other chaplain. I have taken funerals for people associated with the club, marriage blessings and have married fans."
"I have always been a Palace fan and I guess I always will be."
The book 100 Years of Crystal Palace Football Club published by Tempus, is priced £19.99. ISBN number 0 7524 3608 2.