12th Man: A journey into the mind of a die-hard football fan

'The 12th Man' is a fascinating account of how far more can be to a die-hard football fan than meets the eye, revealing that most fans don't choose their football club and don't even choose football itself. Steven Dawson's journey as a Leeds United fan was a rite of passage, and he would never have supported another club.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2021
Publisher: The Conrad Press

Offering a painfully honest insight into the male psyche, 'The 12th Man' is a fascinating account of how there can be far more to a die-hard football fan than meets the eye. Most fans don't choose their football club. In fact, the majority of them don't even choose football itself. Becoming a Leeds United fan was a rite of passage for Steven Dawson, and even had he known the scale of the drama that would unfold after he became a fan, he would never have supported another club.

Steven Dawson's journey as a Leeds United fan is a testament to the profound emotional attachment that football fans can have to their clubs. Despite the club's tumultuous history and financial challenges, Dawson remained loyal to Leeds United through thick and thin. His unwavering support was a reflection of his deep-seated passion for the game and his unwavering commitment to the club.

In 'The 12th Man', Dawson shares his personal experiences and observations about the world of football, offering a unique perspective on the culture, traditions, and rituals of the sport. He delves into the psychology of football fans, exploring the reasons why they become so invested in their teams and the emotional toll that supporting a club can take.

One of the most striking aspects of 'The 12th Man' is Dawson's honesty and vulnerability. He openly discusses his struggles with depression, anxiety, and addiction, which were exacerbated by his involvement with Leeds United. His story is a powerful reminder of the emotional toll that football can take on its fans, and the importance of seeking help and support when needed.

Through his journey as a Leeds United fan, Dawson also sheds light on the broader social and cultural implications of football. He explores the role that football plays in shaping communities, promoting social cohesion, and fostering a sense of identity. He also discusses the impact of football on the national psyche, and how it can unite people in times of crisis or celebration.

'The 12th Man' is a captivating and thought-provoking book that offers a deep understanding of the male psyche and the profound emotional attachment that football fans can have to their clubs. It is a must-read for football fans, sports enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the complex relationship between sports, culture, and identity.

In conclusion, 'The 12th Man' is a fascinating account of how there can be far more to a die-hard football fan than meets the eye. Steven Dawson's journey as a Leeds United fan is a testament to the profound emotional attachment that football fans can have to their clubs. Through his honesty and vulnerability, Dawson offers a unique perspective on the world of football, exploring the psychology of football fans, the social and cultural implications of the sport, and the importance of seeking help and support when needed. 'The 12th Man' is a must-read for football fans, sports enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the complex relationship between sports, culture, and identity.

Weight: 372g
Dimension: 128 x 198 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913567583