Together For Turner
Ahead of Saturday’s Memorial match in honour of former Cambridge United and Peterborough United legend Chris Turner, U’s Head of Recruitment Marc Tracy pens his memories of the great man.
“Chris Turner is and will always be a treasure in the hearts of so many football fans across Cambridgeshire. Not only was he a genius at ‘The Posh’ in his playing and management, he arguably provided one of the best days ever on 24th May 1992 with the unforgettable Play Off victory v Stockport at Wembley.
This continued when he built a team that finished in the highest position in the club’s history, 10th in the second division. A feat made all the more impressive when you consider it took him just two seasons!
His accomplishments continued at the Abbey Stadium where he assembled the foundations of a team who became arguably Cambridge United’s best ever outfit. Cambridgeshire has therefore lost an unbelievable footballing inspiration and legend.
Chris was a caring, funny and mischievous man, but also to many people, a great friend! He loved a prank and he truly brought the fun into the game which enabled everyone to enjoy themselves in the working environment, but boy you were still required to work to your maximum. He was the boss and he led by example.
He had tremendous character, personality and was a winner who never suffered any fools. He demanded and expected the best attitude, character, punctuality and work rate from everyone, and we all gladly followed suit. His passion rubbed off on us all as he set high moral standards, which were the perfect grounding for the success he maintained and strived for. His attitude proved to be successful in both football clubs’ history.
Chris had an eye for talent - identifying potential and enabling it to flourish, which was ironic as Chris himself was a special talent and we are all honoured to have known him.
Simply Chris opened up opportunities to people and identified areas where you could develop, blossom and demonstrate your strengths! He believed in people and personally gave me a once in a lifetime opportunity, of which the experience was something that any young lad would dream of. I will be forever in debt to his kindness, time, friendship, support and belief. He was an inspirational man. To me a hero!
I’m sure everyone will have great memories of Chris, many funny of course and that alone ensures Chris Turner will never be forgotten in our hearts and minds! The fact that he had an effect on everybody who came in contact with him will forever be Chris’ legacy.
God Bless Chris and thank you for all the great memories!”
Cambridge United supporters are reminded that Saturday’s match is an all-ticket fixture, with the Amber Army able to secure their place online, over the phone on 01223 566 500 and in-store.