It is with great sadness that we wave goodbye to club captain Herbie Stupple after over a decade in his company.
Herbs joined the club as a fresh-faced forward 13 years ago and went on to make over 200 appearances in Albion colours in both Championship and National League 1 fixtures.
He became club captain in 2016, leading his team-mates with distinction while exemplifying every characteristic of an exceptional player and clubman.
Herbs has given the club so many memories over his 13 years of service, and his positive presence in the dressing room was every bit as impressive as his on-field performances.
Herbie has raised a young family during his time with us at the Brickfields, and we fully support a decision that is right for his loved ones.
Having picked up a jaw injury during pre-season, Herbs has seen this as the right time to call time on his Albion career. He leaves having created a legacy that will last for decades to come.
In every sense of the word, Herbie Stupple has been, and will forever be, a legend of the club – enshrined forever in Plymouth Albion folklore as one of the finest examples of a captain the club has ever seen.
Speaking on Herbs’ departure, Head Coach Ryan Lamb said: “Herbs has been an unbelievable servant to the club. He’s made over 200 appearances and having his testimonial last year just goes to show how much the club valued him.
“Since I’ve been here, he’s led the boys extremely well and through some tough times. I said to him when he announced it that he was the seed to where the club and the team’s going now.
“Obviously, with the big injury he’s had, there’s been time for him to reflect and he’s made the decision that’s right for him and his family. And we support him all the way, but we couldn’t be more appreciative of his effort and the work he’s put into the club and to this side.
“We wish him well. We wish him and his family all the best and he’s welcome at the club any time, especially if he wants to put his boots back on!”
And of course, some words from the man himself.
“I have had an unbelievable time at Plymouth Albion and to bring both my children up through this has been amazing. With many highs and lows I have been so grateful for the support I had from my team-mates and family over the years.
“I wish all the boys all the luck in the world and to see them getting some great wins while I have been injured really made everything that much easier.”
Best of luck in the future Herbie and, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you.
