FAN FOCUS: Ricky Martin
We continue our weekly feature putting the spotlight on you - our loyal supporters - with the latest installment of Fan Focus.
Fan Focus gives every member of the Jack Army a chance to share their favourite tales, games and goals from supporting the Swans over the years.
If you want to be involved in the feature, email jackwells@swanseacityfc.co.uk
Name: Ricky Martin
Age: 19
Where you are from: Townhill
How long have you been supporting the Swans?
I have been supporting the Swans for about ten years now, although I didn't properly start until I was about 11. Since then, I attend pretty much every game - I haven't missed many.
What was your first Swans game?
I can't remember much from my first game, but it was against Rushden & Diamonds on a Tuesday night in the LDV Vans Trophy. I think we won 4-0, and I recall it being a special night for our now-boss super Garry Monk, who scored his first ever goal for the Swans that night.
Why did you start supporting the Swans?
I've always had an interest in football ever since I can remember because my entire family either played or were involved in the game. But I started supporting the Swans after my first experience of being down the Vetch Field. Just watching a game down there was a special feeling.
What is your most memorable Swans moment?
As many fans will undoubtedly say, the most memorable moment has to be winning the Play-Off final to win promotion to the Premier League. It was one of the best days of my life, and I have no doubt that most Swansea supporters would say the same. The pride, passion and atmosphere at that game was an unforgettable feeling.
Best game you've seen at the Vetch/Liberty?
The best game I've seen at the Liberty has got to be the Championship Play-Off semi-final against Nottingham Forest. The game was so tense and full of excitement because of the prospect of getting to the Play-Off final. The whole stadium was rocking.
Best goal you've seen at the Vetch/Liberty?
For me, the best goal at the Vetch was Marc Goodfellow's long-range effort against Stockport when Neil Cutler slipped when taking a goal kick. I've always loved that goal. My favourite goal at the Liberty is Scott Sinclair's solo effort against Nottingham Forest when he ran all the way from the halfway line, beating four or five players before slotting home past Lee Camp. Amazing.
Your greatest sacrifice to watch the Swans?
So far I haven't really had to make any real sacrifices to go and watch the Swans. I suppose my biggest sacrifice would be for a weekday away game, when I get home after the game at about 3am, knowing I need to wake up at 6am for work.
Your typical pre-match ritual?
I don't really have a pre-match ritual due to the fact that I play football myself before the home games. However, before making my way to my seat at the Liberty, I always seem to go to the toilet at the stadium beforehand.
Who is your favourite Swans player of all time, and why?
My favourite player of all time is Scott Sinclair. He was amazing during the period he played for us. Sinclair used to beat players with ease and would always make a big contribution to the team. Without his goals, we wouldn't be where we are now, in the Premier League - that's for sure.
Favourite current player?
My favourite current player is Jonjo Shelvey. I think he's the complete player and fits perfectly in our squad, with the way we like to play football. For me, he is definitely a future regular England international!
Favourite Swans kit from over the years?
My favourite kit is probably this year's away kit. I really like the style of it, and I look forward to seeing us play in it on our trips away from home.
If you could sign one player for the club, who would it be?
If I could sign any player, other than the obvious names of Messi and Ronaldo, it would be Gareth Bale. He's a fantastic player and, in the future, I think he is going to be the best player in the world.
Your most disappointing moment watching the Swans?
My most disappointing moment watching the Swans was the Play-Off final at the Millennium Stadium against Barnsley. Missing out on promotion to penalities was tough to take and a harsh way to lose.
