After helping Cliftonville end a 45-year wait for Irish Cup glory, the striker was stunned to see some fans had imprinted his image on arms, legs and torsos.
That idolisation came after Hale netted two extra-time goals to seal a 3-1 victory over Linfield before 15,000 fans at Windsor Park last May.
But no matter how much trophy success he has across the Irish Sea, the 26-year-old will never convince one relative he is the best finisher in the family Derry and Crusaders legend, grandad Danny.
Seven-goal Staggies' frontman Hale said: "My granddad, who is the main man, is getting on a bit now.
"But he never forgets any of his football stories. He talks about the goals he scored in and he likes to remind you of that! He's been a massive influence on my career and watches my goals online.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
WE PUT RED TO BED WITH TALK
JOE WRIGHT says it's good to talk to gaffer Derek McInnes... but still feels he's in no position to ask him for a new contract.
I'VE GOT MY MIND SET ON RUN IN TEAM
Kai thanks mental coach for helping him focus
TAWANDA NOW AT AFCON ONE FOR WELL
MOTHERWELL ace Tawanda Maswanhise was flying high after booking Zimbabwe's place at the Africa Cup of Nations.
DRAW DEAL
Brian: You want to be going to Hampden for a semi or showpiece, not a third-round tie with Queen's Park
RECORD HAS SAVED ME FROM THE SACK
PEP GUARDIOLA admits his past record of success at Manchester City is all that is saving him from the sack.
MASON'S READY TO MOUNT A REVIVAL
Gaffer Amorim's tipping forgotten man of Old Trafford to seize chance
NO HOME BANKER
scarlets make the Warriors Sweat to keep run going
OLD BOY FROM BRAZIL
Farmer, 1I2, Nowworlds o oldest man
MUM KILLER CAGED
Son's stab frenzy during drugs binge
Transport secretary quits over phone fraud charge
LOUISE Haigh quit as transport secretary yesterday after it emerged she had admitted a fraud charge in 2014.
