'Our hilarious young man' - family's loving tribute to Blackpool FC fan, 16, after tragic death
It was an emotional moment at Bloomfield Road on Saturday when in the 16th minute, the entire stadium rose to applaud and remember one of their own.
The applause was carried out to commemorate the life of diehard Blackpool fan Stanley Mitchell, 16, who has sadly passed away following a brave battle with lung cancer.
Stanley was first diagnosed with cancer in summer 2025. After a year of fighting Stanley managed to overcome the disease, but tragically, the cancer returned just four weeks ago. Following another short battle, the teenager sadly passed away on October 16.
Stanley’s family have now paid tribute to their beloved son and brother, describing him as a kind young man who always tried to make people feel better. They told the Gazette: “Stan was an incredibly quick witted, hilarious young man. He loved all things sports, football, golf and gym.
“He played for Foxhall and South Shore Juniors football teams when he was growing up. He loved nothing more than spending time with his friends. Stan fought incredibly bravely throughout his journey with cancer, and spent the entire time trying to make other people laugh and feel better.
“As a family, we are blown away (by the support received). The GoFundMe was set up independently by Stan’s friends, a group of incredible young men. We are beyond grateful for them and everyone who has donated.”
Over £4000 has been raised to help support Stan’s family through this incredibly difficult time. Support for the family has poured in from across the Fylde coast, including those in tangerine at Bloomfield Road.
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An impeccable minute's applause was carried out by both sets of supporters during the 16th minute of Blackpool’s home match against Mansfield Town on Saturday in what was an emotional moment for Stan’s friends and family.
Blackpool FC’s Supporters Trust paid tribute to Stan last week before helping to organise the applause, and hundreds of ‘Pool fans offered their condolences to Stan’s family across social media.
“The applause at the match was also set up by Stanley’s friends and their parents who reached out to the fan groups of both the Blackpool team and the away team,” Stanley’s family added.
“It was an incredibly emotional day, seeing the whole stadium applaud for Stan and hearing the commentators talk about him. It was so moving, especially knowing how much Stan loved the club. He had been a season ticket holder since he was 10, and loved going to all the games with his Dad.”
More details about Stan’s GoFundMe can be found here. £4000 of the £4500 target has been raised in just seven days, and all donations are welcomed.