Hello, I am Tony, aka Fabregas the King from InsideArsenal weblog. Being born in 1956, I am old enough to remember the passionate Gooner who was willing to give his all for the club he loved. But for me and no doubt for other black guys of our generation, who grew up with the racial slurs and all that kind of nonsense, we saw Rocky as a role model and as proof that it was possible to succeed at being a talented black person in England.
He was truly Young Gifted and Black, and that alone enriched our lives. He was the light in our dark days of dealing with all that life threw at us. His success became our success and we bragged about him as if he was part of our own family. In a way I suppose as a Gooner, he was… I was struck by disbelief when the news came through that he had died, and so young.
I am the organiser of the planned vocal tribute and I am hoping that the Emirates roof will be lifted on the night of Wednesday 2nd April when we play Liverpool in the Champions League. Rocky will be there in spirit, and boy do we need his determination and will to win at the moment. I am deeply honoured to have been able to share some of my feelings, RIP Rocky, a massive Arsenal Legend, and peace and love to his family.
Tony Hall-Jones, InsideArsenal.co.uk
April 2nd, 2008 at 11:55 am
OOH ROCKY ROCKY ROCKY ROCKY ROCKY ROCKY ROCASTLE….. thank u so much heard it loud and proud x