Samantha, of Wigston, was joined at the store launch in Market Street, Leicester by Tigers stars Jordan and Craig Newby, plus club mascot Welford and fellow fans.
Tigers ran a competition online and in the Tigers matchday programme for a fan to officially cut the ribbon, and mum-of-three Samantha first heard about it through our twice weekly ezine, the Tigerzine.
Samantha, who works at Leicester law firm Gateley, was joined by her husband Liam and their daughters Sophie, 14, Melissa, 10 and seven-year-old Chloe for the opening.
“I am signed up to the Tigerzine and get all of the updates,” she says. “I didn’t think I would win, I don’t win anything, but decided to enter.
“This is the first competition that I have won. It was very exciting to have the honour of opening the shop and meeting the players.”
The store, which is at the site of the former Cotton Traders shop, has undergone a four-week refurbishment.
It is completely devoted to Tigers, stocking the latest fashion ranges as well as the 2011/12 home kit and training wear. The new store also offers an extensive selection of souvenirs and gifts that will be perfect for any Tigers fan this Christmas.
In-store shirt printing is available as well as the ability to buy Tigers match tickets. An upgraded ordering facility allows fans to make a purchase in the club store and have it delivered to anywhere in the world. It is also possible to make a purchase at the online store and collect items in store, saving on postage costs.
“It’s a brilliant spot right in the city,” says Newby, who has been capped three times by New Zealand, added: “I’ve been looking for an All Blacks jersey but they have obviously sold out with the World Cup Final coming up!”
England and Tigers No8 Crane adds: “The shop is really nice and really well done out. I’ve got my eye on a Leicester Tigers dartboard, that will look nice at the training ground.”
