Phil Parkinson Receives Freedom of Wrexham
Phil Parkinson expressed his deep gratitude and sense of humility after receiving the Freedom of Wrexham this week, a prestigious distinction that highlights his significant contributions as manager of the club. Dressed in a formal suit, he attended a ceremony at the Guildhall where Wrexham’s council members recognized his leadership, which has seen the club ascend to the Championship through an impressive streak of three promotions.
Reflections on the Honor
Parkinson reflected on the honor just before Wrexham faced Derby in their upcoming league match, stating,
“It’s a great honor and very humbling to receive this award.”
He noted the value of connecting with the councillors, admitting that as a manager, one can often feel isolated from the broader community.
Impact of Wrexham AFC
The discussions during the event shed light on the profound impact that Wrexham AFC and its co-owners, Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, have had on the local area, particularly since their takeover in 2020. This perspective allowed Parkinson to appreciate the club’s significance beyond the pitch and to acknowledge how local supporters have remained steadfast through challenging times.
“We’ve always emphasized that while Wrexham has gained international recognition, the local businesses and people who support us are paramount,”
he remarked.
Challenges in the Championship
As the club adjusts to life in the Championship, recent performances have shown promise, recording consecutive away victories against Millwall and Norwich. However, they have encountered difficulties at their home ground, known as the SToK Cae Ras, with a loss against West Brom and another to QPR, in addition to a draw with Sheffield Wednesday.
“Sometimes we’ve approached games too anxiously, directly trying to score, rather than maintaining our structure,”
Parkinson explained, emphasizing the need for a more composed approach during home matches.
“It’s crucial for us to bring the compactness and discipline we showed away from home into our home games. We’re committed to delivering the victories our fans expect to see at home.”
Conclusion
This week’s recognition serves as a reminder of the club’s journey and the importance of its community, as Wrexham continues to forge its path in the increasingly competitive Championship.
