Dutch Eredivisie club Go Ahead Eagles gave their long-serving kit woman, Carla Whittie, a heartfelt send-off with a giant tifo banner before their match against AZ Alkmaar on Thursday.
The 53-year-old, who has been with the club for 28 years, was honored with a massive banner featuring her face, held up by fans in the stands. The tifo read: "Carla club icon. Thank you for everything!"
Before kick-off, Whittie received a certificate of appreciation on the pitch, and players wore shirts with the message "Carla, thank you". The match ended in a 0-0 draw, but the tribute was the standout moment of the night.
Whittie first joined Go Ahead Eagles in July 1998 as a volunteer, but her role quickly became a paid position. Reflecting on her journey, she told the club website in 2023: "When I started, I wasn't even allowed to enter the players' lounge. I wasn't even in the team photo. Kit people were never really a full part of the squad back then. Nowadays it's different."
She added: "In the early years, I sometimes sat on the bench like a supporter, eating myself up if we didn't play well. That took about 15 years. Now players are just my colleagues. Within the current organisation, I am the only one who has been on the payroll for so long. I'm really proud of it!"
During her tenure, she witnessed multiple relegations and promotions, the club's Dutch Cup win last season, and their Europa League campaign. The club described Whittie as "really loved by all employees, players, and supporters".
The tifo was a fitting tribute to a woman who has dedicated nearly three decades to the club.