Former NFL quarterback Joey Harrington may not have had a direct connection to Wrexham or soccer initially, having stopped playing the sport at a young age. However, Harrington has found a deep connection with the Welsh club’s journey, which has led him and his family to wake up early on Saturdays to watch their matches live.
Harrington comes from a family with a rich sporting pedigree, with his father and grandfather both having played quarterback at the collegiate level. His own success as a quarterback at the University of Oregon and later in the NFL with teams like the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, Atlanta Falcons, and New Orleans Saints, was impressive. But it was his unexpected involvement with Wrexham that truly caught everyone by surprise.
The documentary series “Welcome To Wrexham” chronicling the takeover of the club by Hollywood celebrities Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds played a significant role in Harrington’s newfound interest in the team. After visiting Wrexham with his family and experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the club and its staff, Harrington was hooked.
The Harrington family’s interactions with Wrexham’s players, manager, and fans left a lasting impression on them. From meeting goalkeeper Ben Foster to chatting with Phil Parkinson and visiting the iconic Turf pub, every moment solidified Harrington’s support for the club.
Harrington’s journey into the world of soccer took an unexpected turn when he witnessed the competitive spirit and physicality of women’s soccer, particularly through players like Christine Sinclair. This newfound appreciation for the sport, coupled with his admiration for Wrexham’s transformation under new ownership, led Harrington to invest in the National Women’s Soccer League.
Drawing parallels between his own experiences in college football and the NFL to Wrexham’s rise from obscurity to prominence, Harrington emphasizes the importance of teamwork, camaraderie, and a shared vision. He sees Wrexham as more than just a football club but a symbol of resilience, community, and determination.
As Harrington continues to support Wrexham from afar, he looks forward to visiting the club in person and witnessing their journey firsthand. His unexpected connection to the Welsh club and the world of soccer serves as a reminder of the power of sport to bring people together and inspire change.
