Academy to walk in Stephen's memory
Liverpool Academy staff and players are preparing to complete a Yorkshire three-peak challenge in memory of Stephen Packer, the U9s player who sadly passed away in November last year.
Stephen was a huge Liverpool fan who made a big impression on everyone he encountered at the club's Academy due to his happy nature and willingness to learn.
On November 25, 2012 he lost his incredibly brave battle with cancer.
As a fitting tribute to the youngster, Academy representatives are aiming to complete a demanding 25-mile hike as part of the Duke of Edinburgh award in May.
Their plan is to raise vital funds for Alder Hey Children's hospital in Liverpool in memory of Stephen.
"Everybody at the club was deeply shocked and saddened by Stevie's passing last year," said Academy director Frank McParland.
"He was very highly thought of by everyone he came into contact with. He was a really happy kid and always had a smile on his face.
"Not only that, but Stevie was a really talented young footballer. He was the best athlete within his group and very speedy.
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"We were all really humbled by the response from the Anfield crowd during the minute's applause held in his memory in December 2012.
"Match of the Day and Sky Sports also paid tribute to Stevie and it felt as though the whole footballing community came together after his passing.
"I think it is fantastic that some of our players and staff are taking on the Duke of Edinburgh award once again this May to raise funds for Alder Hey in Stevie's memory.
"And Alder Hey do great work in caring for children from all around the country and as a football club, we have strong links with the children's hospital."
It will be the second year running that the Academy have taken on the gruelling Duke of Edinburgh award.
Earlier this month, eight Liverpool youngsters were presented with DoE bronze certificates for their efforts last May.
In two months' time, they'll be doing it all over again and they need your help to raise funds for Alder Hey.
First-team stars and Academy players will be Tweeting their support over the coming weeks in the build-up to the walk, so keep an eye out for their tributes.
Click here to visit the JustGiving page set up to support the event in memory of Stephen Packer>>