Football is often seen as just a game, but every now and then, moments happen that remind us of the deeper connections forged through the beautiful game.
This was certainly the case for eight-year-old Celtic fan Joshua McLaughlin, who was given a remarkable experience by BSC Young Boys after a viral moment from earlier this year.
Back in January, following Celtic’s thrilling 1-0 victory over Young Boys at Celtic Park in the Champions League, Joshua’s interaction with the visiting supporters caught the attention of fans worldwide. His kind-hearted exchange with the Young Boys fans quickly went viral, highlighting the shared respect between football supporters, regardless of their teams.
In recognition of this special moment, BSC Young Boys reached out to Joshua and his family, offering them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit Bern for the weekend. The family made the trip from Elderslie to Switzerland, where they attended Young Boys’ match against Yverdon in the Swiss Super League, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
But the experience didn’t stop there. Joshua was given VIP treatment throughout the weekend, including a very special moment before the match. He had the honour of walking out onto the pitch alongside Young Boys’ captain, Loris Benito.
Joshua will know Benito well, as it was his own goal in the Champions League match in January that decided the outcome of the game.
Football is brilliant. Not only did @BSC_YB host Celtic fan Joshua and his family (@K7_CMU) for the match against Yverdon on Saturday, they also gave him the opportunity to walk onto the pitch with club captain Loris Benito.
📹 @blueSport_de pic.twitter.com/oZDi4zdJlK
— Craig King – 𝗙𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗯𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗦𝘄𝗶𝘀𝘀EN (@FootballSwissEN) April 6, 2025
In a touching act of generosity, Young Boys not only covered all travel expenses for Joshua and his family but also gifted him a shirt and a ball as a token of their appreciation.
It was a gesture that left Joshua’s father, Kevin, deeply moved. “It was all a wonderful experience for Joshua in Bern, and overall an outstanding gesture from a truly remarkable football club,” he shared on social media.
Thank you so much for this post Craig 💚
It was all a wonderful experience for Joshua in Bern, and overall an outstanding gesture, from a truly wonderful football club 💛🖤🇨🇭#bscyb #ybforever #hoppyb @CelticFC https://t.co/rxQ8rEpJ6w
— Kevin McLaughlin (@K7_CMU) April 6, 2025
This story is a perfect reminder that football is far more than just what happens on the pitch.
It’s about the friendships and connections made in the stands, moments that go beyond club rivalries and show how football can bring us together.
For Joshua, this unforgettable experience in Bern will surely be a memory he and his family will treasure for years to come.
And for football fans everywhere, it serves as a reminder of the kindness and generosity that still exists.
