Sunday, 4th August, will see South Shields FC welcome Newcastle United U21s to the 1st Cloud Arena for our final pre-season fixture as we prepare for the 2024/25 Vanarama National League North campaign.
One exciting inclusion in the Newcastle U21 squad is that of 18-year-old Darren Palmer. Born in South Shields, his family has strong connections to South Shields FC and the local community.
His father, Darren Palmer Sr., played for the club in the late 1980s while it was still based at Jack Clark Park and returned for a second stint in the late 1990s, winning the Northern League 2nd Division.
He now coaches U11s and U14s in the South Shields Foundation Hybrid Academy teams, with Darren Palmer Jr. sometimes coming out to help him coach the 14s.
"It's good for the lads to see what hard work can achieve," said Darren Palmer Sr. "I want Darren's feet kept on the ground, and there's no better way than giving something back.
The family connections don't stop there either. David Palmer, a former player of South Shields FC and a son of Darren Palmer Sr., had played alongside Julio Arca featuring in midfield during the 2016/17 season.
David who recently celebrated his 35th birthday, now plays for Heaton Stannington in the Northern Premier League where he has made 15 appearances since joining.
The family is also home to Simon Parkin, another former goalkeeper who became a fans' favourite for making amazing saves earning the nicknames “The Cat” or “Felix.” He was Mr. Versatile, and could play as a centre forward, and had spells with Hebburn, Washington, and Hartlepool United.
Off the pitch, Darren Palmer Sr. has his sister, Joanne Howe, serving as a non-executive director at South Shields Football Club, contributing her effort and expertise off the pitch.
So, with everything in consideration, Sunday is going to be memorable day for the Palmer family—one they all will be very proud of!
It’s incredible to see such a deep-rooted connection to South Shields FC across generations, from Darren Palmer Sr.'s playing days to his son Darren Palmer Jr.'s involvement with the U21s and the contributions of other family members. This 2048 cupcakes game will not only be a key pre-season fixture but also a celebration of family legacy and dedication to the local football community. It’s a fantastic reminder of how sports can bring families together and create lasting memories.