Wrexham

Wrexham moving forward again


Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have taken a major step towards fulfilling their ambition as Wrexham achieved a crucial academy milestone.

Wrexham granted Category Three academy status
Welsh club set to build a new youth set up in Rossett
Now eligible to field teams from U-9s and upwards

The Welsh club has been granted Category Three academy status, a milestone that reflects their commitment to youth development and the future of the club. After being given additional time to meet the necessary standards, Wrexham successfully upgraded their academy facilities to meet Category Three criteria. This upgrade represents a significant boost for the club, allowing them to field teams across all age groups, from Under-9s to Under-23s, for the 2024-25 season. Previously, under Category Four, the club was limited to operating only at the Under-17s level and above.

Wrexham are dedicated to setting up a robust youth development system and have already committed to a multi-million-pound infrastructure project that would see them raise a new training facility at Darland High School in Rossett. This state-of-the-art facility will feature five pitches of varying sizes, along with essential amenities such as changing rooms, toilets, offices, analysis rooms, and a classroom to fulfill the necessary requirements for Category Three status

Wrexham’s chief executive, Michael Williamson, said, via The Athletic: “The co-chairmen have outlined their ambition to create a sustainable football club, and the investment in the academy training facilities along with the Category Three achievement is certainly a key milestone towards that objective.”

The club’s return to the English Football League (EFL) in 2023 marked a new chapter in their storied history. The focus on developing a strong youth setup aligns with their long-term goals of competitiveness and sustainability. The decision to invest heavily in youth facilities highlights their commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and creating a pipeline of skilled players for the future

Not really big news, is it? Stop feeding the PR machine. I'd be gobsmacked if our academy has made any Wrexham board, ever!

Good Luck to them but this will be their biggest test to date ...