Wrexham’s story from National League obscurity to history makers has captured a global audience.
Phil Parkinson’s side secured their Championship status with a 3-0 victory over Charlton Athletic at the Racecourse Ground back in April, sparking scenes of joy across the town.
Wrexham’s Championship fixture list has been released and the excitement of visiting historic clubs such as Ipswich Town and Leicester City is beyond supporters’ wildest dreams.
Wrexham face Southampton in their season opener and the players will perhaps be expecting another visit from owner Rob McElhenney before that clash after what he did towards the end of last season.
Rob McElhenney asked the Wrexham players to ‘have the time of their lives’ before Charlton clash
The Red Dragons stuttered at a crucial time in their League One promotion bid as consecutive draws with Wigan Athletic and Bristol Rovers threatened to derail their bid to create history.
James McClean revealed McElhenney’s speech before victory over Blackpool on Easter Monday and the Wrexham owner repeated his trick just before the crucial clash with Charlton.
As documented on the final episode of season four on the ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ series, McElhenney delivered a team talk to the entire Wrexham squad and coaching staff and had one key message.
McElhenney stated: “Forget the history, I want you to go out there and play like you were 10 years old and have the time of your lives because I promise you, that is the only thing you will remember.”
Goals from Ollie Rathbone and Sam Smith helped secure promotion that day and now all eyes will be how the club fares in its first attempt at the second tier in 43 years.
Rob McElhenney enlisted the help of famous sports stars in Wrexham speech
Although their identities were not revealed in the documentary, McElhenney enlisted the help of some famous American sports figures in his speech to the players and coaches.
The final episode shows that a significant NFL star, golf icon and basketball legend were all part of McElhenney’s inspiration.
Wrexham are used to Hollywood figures around the club, Ryan Reynolds has brought the likes of Channing Tatum and Hugh Jackman to the Racecourse.
Tatum apologised to Reynolds after he was out partying with the Wrexham squad after shooting a commercial inside the dressing room.
The real ‘Hollywood’ magic has been on the pitch for the Red Dragons these last few years and preparations are well underway to ensure that sparkle continues next season.