Wrexham A.F.C: When Hollywood Meets Real Life

1/01/2024 10:46:00 PM 0 comments
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In a remarkable twist of fate, the storied world of football collided head-on with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. The unlikely union between Wrexham A.F.C., one of professional football's oldest clubs, and two Hollywood actors, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, has captivated fans, reinvigorated the club, and turned the spotlight on a small Welsh town. 

The Hollywood Takeover

It all began in February 2021 when Ryan Reynolds, known for his roles in movies like "Deadpool" and "Detective Pikachu," teamed up with fellow actor Rob McElhenney to take 100% control of Wrexham A.F.C. The club, previously owned by a group of fans known as the Wrexham Supporters Trust, was about to embark on an extraordinary journey. 

A Script Unfolding 

The script unfolded rapidly. Before a ball was kicked, Reynolds and McElhenney had to win formal approval from the club's Supporters' Trust. In a landslide vote of 98.6%, members backed the proposal, setting the stage for a new era at Wrexham. The promises made by the headline-grabbing pair were ambitious: grow the club, improve facilities, protect its rich history, return to the Football League, and, perhaps most importantly, "always beat Chester." 

Wins and Points 

Since that pivotal moment, 'Hollywood' Wrexham has played 169 games in all competitions, winning more than 100 times. Their win ratio stands at an impressive 62%. These victories have translated into 290 points in the table, with last year's National League title success setting a record for the top five divisions in English football. 

Managers and Signings 

The managerial carousel has seen two occupants during this Hollywood takeover. Dean Keates, the initial manager, lasted little more than three months before Phil Parkinson took the reins. Parkinson's tenure of two years and seven months makes him the longest-serving Wrexham manager since Dean Saunders (2008-2011). 

But it's not just about managers; it's about players too. A staggering 41 signings have graced the Racecourse Ground since the takeover. Some of these new faces were already in place before the official confirmation of the deal, thanks to Reynolds and McElhenney's donation that allowed signings to happen even before the transfer deadline. Among the recruits are full internationals like Ben Foster, James McClean, and Steven Fletcher. Notably, the £300,000 paid for Ollie Palmer in January 2022 broke Wrexham's transfer record, surpassing the amount spent on Joey Jones from Liverpool 44 years earlier. 

Global Impact 

Wrexham's global impact extends far beyond the Racecourse. From Patagonia to The Gambia, the club's influence is felt. Yet, despite their reach, Wrexham struggles away from home. The team's fortunes remain a rollercoaster, but the Hollywood magic continues to weave its spell. 

A Documentary Journey 

The story of Wrexham's transformation has been chronicled in the docuseries "Welcome to Wrexham". With an IMDb rating of 8.3/10, the show delves into the purchase and stewardship of the club by Reynolds and McElhenney. Heartwarming testimonials, archive footage, and glimpses of the Racecourse Ground today paint a vivid picture of this Hollywood-football fusion [1].

More about Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's involvement

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney’s involvement with Wrexham A.F.C. has been nothing short of remarkable. Let’s delve into the details:

The Hollywood Takeover

  1. In February 2021, Ryan Reynolds, known for his roles in movies like “Deadpool” and “Detective Pikachu,” teamed up with fellow actor Rob McElhenney to take 100% control of Wrexham A.F.C.
  2. The club, previously owned by a group of fans known as the Wrexham Supporters Trust, was about to embark on an extraordinary journey.

Winning Approval

  1. Before a ball was kicked, Reynolds and McElhenney had to win formal approval from the club’s Supporters’ Trust.
  2. In a landslide vote of 98.6%, members backed the proposal, setting the stage for a new era at Wrexham.
    The promises made by the headline-grabbing pair were ambitious: grow the club, improve facilities, protect its rich history, return to the Football League, and, perhaps most importantly, “always beat Chester.”

On the Pitch

  1. Since the takeover, Wrexham has played 169 games in all competitions, winning more than 100 times with an impressive win ratio of 62%.
  2. Last year’s National League title success set a record for the top five divisions in English football.

Managers and Signings

  1. The managerial carousel has seen two occupants during this Hollywood takeover.
  2. Dean Keates, the initial manager, lasted little more than three months before Phil Parkinson took the reins.
  3. Parkinson’s tenure of two years and seven months makes him the longest-serving Wrexham manager since Dean Saunders (2008-2011).
  4. A staggering 41 signings have graced the Racecourse Ground since the takeover, including full internationals like Ben Foster, James McClean, and Steven Fletcher.

Global Impact

  1. Wrexham’s influence extends far beyond the Racecourse. From Patagonia to The Gambia, the club’s impact is felt.
  2. Despite their reach, Wrexham struggles away from home, but the Hollywood magic continues to weave its spell.

Documentary Journey

  1. The story of Wrexham’s transformation has been chronicled in the docuseries “Welcome to Wrexham”.
  2. With an IMDb rating of 8.3/10, the show delves into the purchase and stewardship of the club by Reynolds and McElhenney.

The Latest

  1. Wrexham A.F.C.'s journey is a testament to the power of passion, ambition, and unlikely partnerships.
  2. When Hollywood meets real life on the football pitch, the result is nothing short of cinematic magic.
  3. Fans eagerly await the next chapter in this captivating saga123.

What is Wrexham A.F.C?

Wrexham Association Football Club (Wrexham AFC), based in Wrexham, Wales, holds a storied history that intertwines football tradition with remarkable achievements. Let's explore the fascinating journey of this iconic club: 

Origins and Legacy

  1. Founded in 1864, Wrexham AFC is the oldest professional football club in Wales. 
  2. It proudly claims the title of being the third-oldest professional association football team in the world. 
  3. Throughout its existence, the club has been a beacon of passion, resilience, and community spirit. 

League Participation

  1. Wrexham initially participated in friendlies and cup competitions.
  2. In 1890, they entered a league by joining The Combination.
  3. Over the years, the team moved through various leagues, including the Birmingham & District League and the Football League's Third Division North.
  4. Their journey has been marked by promotions, relegations, and dramatic moments.

Recent Triumphs

  1. After a period of challenges, Wrexham secured back-to-back promotions.
  2. In the 2022–23 National League, they emerged as champions, earning a well-deserved place in the EFL League Two.
  3. On April 13, 2024, the club celebrated another milestone by securing promotion to EFL League One.

Honors and Achievements

Wrexham's trophy cabinet boasts several prestigious titles: 

  1. Welsh Cup: They have won this cup a record 23 times.
  2. Football League Trophy: In 2005, they lifted the trophy at the Millennium Stadium.
  3. FA Trophy: Their triumph in 2013 at Wembley Stadium added to their accolades.
  4. Additionally, they hold the distinction of being record winners of the short-lived FAW Premier Cup.

Ownership and Hollywood Connection

  1. The club's ownership took an unexpected turn when Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney stepped in.
  2. Under their guidance, Wrexham has seen renewed energy, investment, and global attention.
  3. The docuseries "Welcome to Wrexham" chronicles this captivating journey.

Racecourse Ground and Fan Support

  1. The historic Racecourse Ground, with a capacity of 12,600, remains the heart of Wrexham AFC.
  2. Fans, affectionately known as The Red Dragons, continue to rally behind their beloved team.

In summary, Wrexham AFC's legacy transcends borders, blending tradition with modern ambition. From humble beginnings to Hollywood ownership, this club embodies the spirit of football and community. As they step onto the League One stage, fans eagerly await the next chapter in their remarkable story [1] [ ] [5].  

Conclusion

Wrexham A.F.C.'s journey is a testament to the power of passion, ambition, and unlikely partnerships. When Hollywood meets real life on the football pitch, the result is nothing short of cinematic magic. As the club continues to chase its dreams, fans eagerly await the next chapter in this captivating saga. 

Sources:

  1. Welcome to Wrexham (TV Series 2022– ) - IMDb 
  2.  Wrexham: Three years on - the Hollywood takeover in numbers 
  3. Ryan Reynolds: Hollywood actor completes takeover of Wrexham A.F.C - BBC 
  4.  Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney: How did Wrexham become Hollywood-owned ... 
  5. Wrexham: Hollywood or Bust (TV Special 2023) - IMDb 
  6.  imdb.com
  7. Wrexham AFC 
  8. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wrexham_A.F.C
  9. Wrexham A.F.C. - Wikipedia
  10. Wrexham A.F.C. Women - Wikipedia
  11. Wxmafc.com | Latest Wrexham News, Transfers and Scores.
  12. linkedin.com
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