Graduations 2024: Fans Museum founder Michael Ganley scores University honour

Published on 27, November, 2024

Founder of the Sunderland Fans Museum, Michael Ganley, has received an Honorary Fellowship from the University of Sunderland.

As a born and bred Mackem, Michael’s love for Sunderland AFC was instilled in him from birth – but it was after his first Black Cats match in 1980 when they played West Ham United that his passion for the beautiful game truly ignited. 

Michael, who had just turned nine at the time, began collecting stickers, programmes – anything he could find that was football-related. 

Over the course of 30 years, Michael grew his vast collection of rare football memorabilia and at the age of 42, he resigned from his job to follow his dream of establishing a museum in the city dedicated to the history of football and its fans. 

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Michael got the keys to the formerly closed Monkwearmouth Station in December 2017 and started renovation works in the new year.  

In October 2018, the Fans Museum officially opened its doors.

Visitors can find a huge collection of football memorabilia covering countries and clubs from across the globe.

From match-worn shirts from Ronaldo and Beckham to the boardroom table from Roker Park – it can all be found at the Fans Museum. Not forgetting 'Super' Kevin Phillips' shirt which he wore when he scored his 30^thgoal for the Black Cats to win the European Golden Shoe. 

Michael has broken the mould of a traditional museum, allowing visitors to touch and actually try on some of the items and match worn shirts of footballing legends.

Michael’s passion for Sunderland and his unwavering dedication in bringing the beautiful game to the masses is why he is being recognised by the University of Sunderland.

He received his honour at the Stadium of Light today (Wednesday 27 November) during the University's Winter Graduation Ceremonies where thousands of students will graduate over four days.