Chichester City have made safety improvements at their ground after the tragic death of former Arsenal star Billy Vigar. The 21-year-old collided with a pitchside wall during a game at Wingate and Finchley, leading to a serious brain injury that ultimately cost him his life. The incident occurred last month during an Isthmian Premier Division match, which was abandoned after Vigar was airlifted to the hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he passed away on September 25.
Safety Review and Club Response:
Following Vigar’s death, the Football Association announced plans to review perimeter walls in the National League to prevent similar tragedies. However, Wingate and Finchley took immediate action by commissioning work to enhance safety measures at the Maurice Rebak Stadium. Despite already complying with regulations, the club decided to completely demolish the wall in question. This decision came after a petition calling for the ban of brick walls around pitches garnered over 4,000 signatures.
FA and PFA Response:
The FA spokesperson stated that the safety review would aim to assist National League clubs in identifying and implementing additional safety measures as needed. On the other hand, the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) called for an investigation into the incident, emphasizing the importance of not exposing players to unnecessary risks. Vigar, who hails from Worthing, West Sussex, began his youth career at Arsenal before moving on to other clubs in the Non-League system.
Arsenal’s Tribute:
Arsenal Football Club released a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of Billy Vigar, highlighting his journey through the club’s academy ranks. Starting at the age of 14, Vigar impressed with his skills as a striker and eventually signed a professional contract with the team. Despite facing challenges like injuries and loan spells at other clubs, he remained dedicated to his craft and earned respect from teammates and coaches alike. Arsenal expressed their deepest condolences to Vigar’s family and friends during this difficult time.
In conclusion, the tragic death of Billy Vigar serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers in the world of football. The swift actions taken by both the club and football organizations to enhance safety measures demonstrate a commitment to preventing similar incidents in the future. Vigar’s legacy as a talented player with a passion for the game will live on, and his memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
