Paul Heckingbottom, “He’s one of our own”. “Hecky” as he is affectionally known by Barnsley fans and Barnsley people alike is very unique in the fact that he is a fan managing his home town club. An astute and intelligent football man who has worked miracles within his time as head coach of Barnsley F.C. Hecky is a living legend at the club having lead Barnsley to two Wembley triumphs one of which resulted in promotion back to the Championship. Against many odds he lead us to our highest finish in 16 years. The connection he has with the fans and the town is deep and very special and that is evident in the interviews he gives and the passion he shows for the club is second to none. Because of his integrity, his honesty and his passion for Barnsley F.C. he is loved by the fans. Having Paul Heckingbottom in charge is a romantic footballing story and I believe if there are such things as footballing gods he may take us to the Premiership once again. The dream is there. Hecky, having played for Barnsley and now managing them, has fulfilled most Barnsley fans dreams and with Barnsley being a passionate footballing town, he has cemented himself forever in the clubs history. My painting below shows Hecky celebrating the JPT 3-2 win over Oxford United at Wembley Stadium.
