Defender helps launch home strip aboard HMS Warrior
Dan Butler boarded HMS Warrior to officially launch Pompey’s new Sondico-designed home kit for the 2013/14 season.
The teenage defender represented the Blues’ bright future as the kit was shown to local and national press on the famous warship at Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyard.
But there was no forgetting the club’s rich history, with former players Keith Blackburn, Ray Crawford, Pat Neil and Colin Sullivan also in attendance.
Blues boss and former Fratton goal machine Guy Whittingham was also on hand to help launch the first home strip of Pompey’s new era as a community club.
The party – which included mascots Nelson and Mary Rose and representatives from sponsors Jobsite, Sondico and Covers – then made their way to Tiger Tiger at Gunwharf Quays for a reception with supporters.
Butler and Whittingham took part in a question-and-answer session and the former is a fan of the new kit.
He said: “It’s really comfortable and fits well. It is in the traditional Pompey colours and I think fans will love it.
“I can’t wait to run out in it next season and I’m sure it will be a winner – even with Kev the Kitman.”
Pompey fan Tom Dearie also gave the new kit the thumbs up. He said: “I like it a lot. The white stripe going across the shoulder is bold, different and represents a new beginning.
“The 12th Man logo just blows you away. It’s fantastic to see it on the shirt and great to think that the lads will run out with it on their kit next season.”