Supporters attending Saturday's Mickey Skinner Memorial Trophy match will have been able to read the story of one of Whitby Town's most dedicated overseas fans in the latest edition of the matchday programme.

The feature shines a spotlight on Massimo Geponi, a lifelong UC Sampdoria supporter from Ventimiglia in the Liguria region of Italy, whose connection with the Seasiders began through a shared footballing identity.

After discovering that Whitby Town played in blue shirts reminiscent of Sampdoria's famous colours, Massimo set about learning more about the club. What started as simple curiosity soon developed into a genuine affection for Whitby Town, with Massimo following the club's fortunes from afar through social media and becoming immersed in the wider Whitby Town community.

In the programme feature, Massimo reflects on how getting to know members of the Whitby Town family, including Eddie McNamee and Peter Graham, helped strengthen his connection with the club. He also speaks warmly about the charitable work and community initiatives that take place around the Towbar Express Stadium, describing them as an important part of what makes the club so special.

His support has since become a family affair. Alongside a Whitby Town scarf and shirt for himself, Massimo also purchased a club hat for his son, Gianluca, and the pair proudly wear their Seasiders colours whenever they attend Sampdoria matches in Italy.

Although he has yet to make the journey to North Yorkshire, Massimo hopes that one day he and Gianluca will be able to visit the Towbar Express Stadium, experience a matchday in person and explore the town that has captured their imagination from more than 1,000 miles away.

Are you a Whitby Town supporter whose journey to following the Seasiders began far from the town itself? Whether you're elsewhere in the UK or supporting from overseas, we'd love to hear your story. Email info@whitbytownfc.com with your details and help us keep this matchday programme feature running throughout the season.