Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson has been awarded the freedom of Wrexham County Borough, calling it an 'incredible honour.' Since his appointment in 2021, he has led the club to three consecutive promotions.
Phil Parkinson applauds the fans with a Wrexham flag in the background
Phil Parkinson has also managed Colchester United, Charlton Athletic, Bradford City, Hull City, Bolton Wanderers and Sunderland [Getty Images]
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson has described the "incredible honour" of being awarded the freedom of Wrexham County Borough.
Parkinson was appointed Wrexham boss in 2021 and has guided the club to three successive promotions.
"It's an incredible honour and I'm very proud of the award given today," said Parkinson, who paid tribute to the support of his family.
"It's a great indication of the impact a football club can have on the community and that's been recognised with the honour I've received.
"Obviously I'm well aware that I've had so much support in the five years I've been here.
"I've been very fortunate to work with fantastic owners in Rob and Ryan and a great structure of people from the coaching staff and some fantastic players over the years, with many significant contributions.
"But equally we talk a lot about the club's connection with the local community and the players have been outstanding in playing their part, not just on the pitch, but out in the city being visible.
"That will continue because Wrexham football club is so important for the area."
Under Parkinson Wrexham have risen from the National League to the Championship and the club's profile has grown globally thanks to the involvement of the Hollywood owners as well as the documentary Wecome to Wrexham.
Parkinson spoke of the benefits the football club's success is having on the wider community with a new Kop Stand currently being developed as part of the Wrexham Gateway project.
"It's great for myself and other people at the club to hear the stories of how the club's success has impacted positively on the area," Parkinson added.
"The economy of Wrexham has been uplifted by the success of the team and the infrastructure the owners are putting in place to take the club forward in years to come.
"It's really enjoyable to be among the business people and leaders of the city and have chats with them about their experiences of the last few years.
"Sometimes you need to step back and just reflect.
"It's hard to do while the season is going on, but a day like today gives me the opportunity to really feel the impact on the area in general."
This season saw Wrexham return to English football's second tier for the first time in 43 years.
Parkinson's side are currently seventh in the Championships, four points off the play-off spots with four game remaining.
"It's been an exciting season and the aim is to finish it strongly now," Parkinson added.
"But we've created a lot of memories this season.
"We've come into a tough league and we've enjoyed watching the players that have come with us in the last few divisions adapt to the level.
"We've integrated a lot of new players into the squad and with four games to go we're looking to finish the season on a high."
Q&A
What does it mean to receive the freedom of Wrexham County Borough?
Receiving the freedom of Wrexham County Borough is an honorary title that recognizes significant contributions to the community.
How long has Phil Parkinson been managing Wrexham?
Phil Parkinson has been the manager of Wrexham since 2021.
What achievements has Phil Parkinson made with Wrexham?
Phil Parkinson has guided Wrexham to three successive promotions since taking over as manager.
Who are the other recipients of the freedom of Wrexham?
Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney received the freedom of Wrexham in 2022.
Related Articles
Sports
LIV Golf is still going, but its days seem numbered and probably always were
LIV Golf's future appears uncertain as reports suggest Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund may withdraw funding after investing $5 billion. Despite assurances for the 2026 season, the tour faces challenges from low ratings and strong competition from the PGA Tour.
ESPN NewsĀ·Ā·1 min read
MLBĀ·Recap
Angels' Mike Trout hits another HR to join Aaron Judge in rare Yankee Stadium history
Mike Trout's 446-foot HR joins him with Aaron Judge in Yankee Stadium lore.
Yahoo SportsĀ·Ā·1 min read
MLBĀ·Feature
Tigers projected to take a gamble on the upside of a 6'3" prep bat
Detroit Tigers projected to take a risk on a 6'3" prep bat in the MLB draft.