Aberdeen FC Community Trust is delighted to announce the appointment of Willie Miller MBE and Alex McLeish OBE as Patrons of the charity, following an invitation from AFCCT Chair Matt Nicol and the Board of Trustees.
Willie and Alex are two of the most recognisable figures in the history of Aberdeen FC with their connection to the Club spanning decades and they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of supporters across Aberdeen and beyond.
Their appointment follows the valued support of Gothenburg Great Eric Black, who served as an AFCCT Patron between 2024 and 2025.
As Patrons, Willie and Alex will lend their names and support to the work of the Trust as it continues to use the power of football and Aberdeen FC to improve lives across the Northeast. The role is intended to be an honorary one, recognising all they have contributed to the Club and the region, whilst helping to strengthen the connection between AFCCT, Aberdeen FC, and the communities it supports every day.
Every year, AFCCT works with thousands of people through programmes focused on education, employability, health and wellbeing, community engagement, and tackling poverty and social isolation.
AFCCT Chair Matt Nicol said: "Willie and Alex have given so much to Aberdeen Football Club over many years and remain fantastic ambassadors for the Club and the city. We are delighted they have accepted our invitation to become Patrons of AFCCT and lend their support to the critical work being carried out across our local communities."
Chief Executive Peter Davidson added: "Many of the people we support through AFCCT know exactly who Alex and Willie are and what they mean to Aberdeen Football Club. Their willingness to support the charity is hugely appreciated and I know it will mean a great deal to the young people, adults and families we work alongside every day.”
“Football has a unique ability to bring people together and create opportunities that might not otherwise exist. Having both of these greats associated with AFCCT helps strengthen that connection and shines a light on the positive difference football can make beyond the 90 minutes."
Commenting on their appointments, the two Pittodrie icons were humbled to lend their support to AFCCT.
“I'm pleased to support AFCCT as a Patron”, said Willie Miller MBE.”
"I know how much work the Trust does across our communities and the difference it makes to many people and families and look forward to seeing its impact continue to grow."
Alex McLeish OBE, echoed Willie’s sentiments. He said: "Although I'm not based in Aberdeen these days, I still follow what's happening at the Club and in the city closely. I'm very aware of the reach and impact AFCCT has across the Northeast and the difference it makes to so many people. I'm proud to support the charity as a Patron."
Aberdeen FC Community Trust is the official charity partner of Aberdeen Football Club, dedicated to providing life-changing opportunities through education, physical activity, and community support. Through a wide range of programmes, the Trust works to promote health, inclusion, and positive futures for communities across the North-east of Scotland.