May 14, 1983.
Where were you that day?
United are producing a book to mark the 40th anniversary of that 1982-83 championship win. It will carry the reminiscences of the players and other leading figures in the Scottish game. But it is important to the club that the fans’ memories are captured too.
This is to be the club’s official record of the 40th anniversary of that championship-winning season. Only 1,983 books will be produced by Dundee-based printer Winter & Simpson, each one individually numbered, “No. 1 of 1,983 . . . No.2 of 1,983, etc”.
There will never be a reprint.
This will be a piece of history *****ly important to United, but also a social document important to the city of Dundee.
In 100 years’ time, when United fans of the future look back, this will be the single most important piece of memorabilia it is possible to own.
United are inviting fans to contribute.
It is to be a one-time, never-to-be-repeated chance to become part of the club’s history and have your thoughts and memories recorded alongside those of the great players of that team.
The book is to be compiled by myself, so far the author of three books about United: Arabs Away, Jim McLean Dundee United Legend, and John Holt Dundee United Legend.
In order to give structure to the reminiscences, six questions are asked. Not all have to be answered, of course. And then there will be some tales and memories that don’t fit any of the questions.
The six guide questions are:
1 How long have you been a United supporter and why are you a United supporter?
2 When, in 82/83, did you realise “We could really win the league this year!”?
3 Favourite game of that season?
4 Abiding memory of that season?
5 Abiding memory of Dens Park, May 14th, 1983?
6 How did you celebrate that night/weekend?
You might also, for instance, want to give an opinion on why that team was so good. Or who you thought was an unsung hero? Or complain that such a fantastic side should have lifted more silverware.
It’s up to you.
Even if you weren’t at Dens that day but remember an older family member, friend or neighbour coming home and celebrating. Or have heard them tell stories of the day. Or know how much it meant to them; then the club urge you to get in touch.
It would be especially poignant, perhaps, if those no longer with us could have their names and memories - and their United-supporting credentials - recorded in the book. Not all the heroes were on the pitch that day.
The book will be launched on May 14th, 2023, at the Dundee United Direct shop in Tannadice Street.
If you want to answer the six questions – in just a few words or at length, up to you – contact Steve Finan at Champs83@dundeeunitedfc.co.uk