Tartan Triumph: FC Twente Unveils Special Kit Celebrating Stranraer Ties

In a touching tribute to an enduring friendship, FC Twente is rolling out a new tartan-inspired kit that celebrates their special bond with fans from Stranraer. The kit will make its first appearance this weekend during a Dutch Eredivisie clash against AZ Alkmaar. The roots of this connection trace back to 2006 when Dennis Van Unen, a Twente fan battling terminal cancer, fulfilled his dream of attending an Old Firm match. Jim McKie and James Hilton, two Stranraer supporters, made it happen by securing tickets and accompanying him on an unforgettable football tour that included legendary venues like Ibrox and Celtic Park. Despite Dennis's passing the following year, the friendship blossomed. Twente fans started to visit Stranraer regularly, establishing a tradition of reciprocal visits that remains strong today. Excitement is brewing as the new tartan kit is set to be showcased at The Grapes pub, the beloved gathering spot for Stranraer Tukkers—a name derived from the Twente region's nickname. Just a stone's throw from Stranraer FC's Stair Park, the pub proudly displays memorabilia from both clubs. Billy Hodge, the pub's 70-year-old landlord, found himself unexpectedly modeling the new kit for the promotional campaign. "It was strange to be honest, I never fancied myself as a model," he said. He was pleasantly surprised by the final product, calling the kit fantastic. The camaraderie didn't end with Dennis's farewell. After his passing, fans from both clubs continued to visit each other, strengthening the bond. A notable moment was when Twente traveled to Stranraer for a pre-season match in 2017, marking a decade since Dennis's death. Billy, still a dedicated Twente season ticket holder, shares a warm connection with visiting fans. "When they come over, we'll get them a beer on the house, it's the same over there," he remarked, highlighting the mutual respect between the two passionate fan bases. Interestingly, Twente's Scottish ties go back even further. The club once sported a tartan away shirt during the 1994/1995 season, which fans later voted as their favorite. Notable players from Scotland, including Rob McKinnon and Scott Booth, have also donned the Twente colors in the past. While Twente hasn’t claimed the Eredivisie title since 2010, they are currently competing in the Europa Conference League and sit fifth in the Dutch league after nine games. Leon Molenkamp, the club's marketing manager, noted that the tartan kit has resonated well with supporters, ensuring the unique relationship with Stranraer is celebrated for generations to come. "The relationship is very heartfelt," he shared. "It’s great to see how something like that can just arise, and more people are taking an interest in Scottish football."