End of an era: Hugely-popular Portsmouth 'legend' to leave Fratton Park after 27 years
The popular Welshman has worked at Fratton Park since the summer of May 1999
Fratton Park stalwart Kev McCormack is to retire after 27 years of outstanding Pompey service.
The 59-year-old former Royal Marine has been an instantly-recognisable figure with the Blues since replacing Gordon Neave as kitman in May 1999.
A three-time ABA Championship-winning boxer who fought at three Commonwealth games, McCormack was appointed to the role by Alan Ball following a stint as doorman outside the Chimes Bar on match-days.
After taking his place in Pompey’s dug-out for the first time in a 2-0 win over Sheffield United in August 1999, the 6ft 4in Welshman has gone on to establish himself as a hugely-popular character with the Fratton faithful.
While his long-serving backroom double act with Barry Harris has served as the heartbeat of the football club for almost three decades.
McCormack, who lives in Waterlooville, stopped travelling to Pompey away matches in 2021 to spend more time with his wife Sarah, but is now stepping down from kit duties completely.
And having served under 19 managers, the Welshman will be retiring following Pompey’s final match of the season against Birmingham on May 2.
Pompey Chief executive Andrew Cullen told the club: ‘The word ‘legend’ is often overused in football, but it’s safe to say that Kev more than meets the criteria and will always be welcome back at Fratton Park.
‘An instantly recognisable face, not only in Portsmouth but throughout English football, he has been a staple of the club for 27 years and will be greatly missed.
‘I have enjoyed getting to know Kev ever since I arrived at the club and he has so many entertaining stories to tell. I will very much miss our regular friendly ‘repartee’ on arrival at the training ground!
I know how deeply he cares about Pompey and on behalf of the owners and everyone at Portsmouth FC, we thank Kev for his long service and wish both him and Sarah good health and a very happy retirement.’