Elliot Lee disclosed a crucial lesson that Wrexham’s Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have “ingrained” in the player.
Consequently, what happened?
After a record-breaking season in 2022–23, the Red Dragons ultimately overcame all obstacles and won the National League title in spectacular fashion, securing their first promotion into the Football League since 2008. As the fans overran the ground, the festivities quickly spread to Wrexham’s streets. Following the 3-1 victory over Boreham Wood, McElhenney and Reynolds shed happy tears, as the Hollywood celebrities were touched by the poignant moments. Lee also disclosed how co-owners and manager Phil Parkinson had always insisted on putting the community’s needs ahead of their own while on the pitch.
WHAT LEE MENTIONED
Lee remarked, “I get goosebumps because we knew how much it meant to people,” in an interview with the Men in Blazers podcast. Yes, everyone is aware of how amazing Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have been, but they have also done a great deal for the community, something that is deeply instilled in us thanks to the gaffer, Phil Parkinson, as well as Rob and Ryan. Even though many of these individuals have been here previously and have experienced numerous negative things from the club, they continue to show up in large numbers.
“We have to do it for people; I saw sincere tears of joy and delight during the bus procession. I am quite proud of that, so I shall carry that emotion with me into eternity. People’s lives are at stake; it’s more than just football. When I step onto the pitch, I never take for granted the fact that this club represents people’s lives.”
THE LARGER IMAGE
Lee said that Parkinson convinced him to join the team by promising to make him “loved forever” by the fervent Wrexham supporters if he assisted them in realising their ambition of being promoted.
“I remember when the manager called me the summer before I joined he said, ‘Whoever takes this club out of the National League, you will be loved forever’,” he recalled.
“I recall thinking, ‘Wow, this is incredible,’ right after the final whistle [against Borehamwood].” We’ve made a lot of people happy. They come see us and spend their hard-earned money. To bring back better times after ownership and everything that has happened… the atmosphere at that Borehamwood
Next?
Wrexham is one point short of the automatic promotion slots in League Two and is fighting for their second consecutive promotion. On Saturday, they will return to play as they look to exact revenge for their earlier loss in the rematch between the two teams.
