Ian (Ramian) Hayes (Belper)
Well I became a Rams supporter around about 8 years old .I had loved football for even longer but wasn't interested in one particular team.
I was taken to my first 'reserve' team match at the BBG by my Dad around 8 years of age .I am not sure of the team we played but I think it was Liverpool. At half time my Dad mysteriously disappeared but returned just after the teams had come out on the pitch for the second half. He had somehow managed to get an autograph of one of the Derby players ..can't remember who it was and of course at that age I lostthe autograph in the intervening years .....
After several more outings to the reserves I think my Dad thought I was ready for the big one.
The first football league game I can remember it quite clearly. The opposition was Middlesborough and Derby managed to win 3-2 after trailing 2-0 at one stage .We sat in the LEY STAND and I remember a Boro fan with a bottle of whiskey. He was laughing and having a great time as Boro went two goals up ,but his voice became more muted as the game went on and eventually he went with 10 minutes to go to the end.
Next stage of my Rams evolution came in the 70's and our glory years .I will always be grateful that I had the opportunity to see one of the best Derby County teams there has ever been and also to watch them in competition with Europe's best.
After that I have been a Derby County fan for the last 30 + years ..and always will be.
c2001 Ian Hayes (RAMIAN)