Wrexham A.F.C. Scholar Joe Rees Wins Prestigious Joe Thompson Spirit Award
Wrexham A.F.C. scholar Joe Rees has been named the inaugural recipient of the Joe Thompson Spirit Award by the League Football Education (LFE). The award was created in honour of Thompson, a former Manchester United and Rochdale academy player who went on to make 200 professional appearances for the latter and was also on loan at Wrexham in 2014.
What Happened?
Joe Rees, a first-year scholar at Wrexham A.F.C., was diagnosed with myocarditis and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) in January 2025. He underwent cardiac ablation surgery in May 2025 and has since made a successful return to training.
Why it Matters for Wrexham A.F.C.
The Joe Thompson Spirit Award celebrates scholars who have overcome barriers to learning and development. Joe Rees' determination and resilience in the face of adversity make him an ideal recipient of this award.
What Comes Next?
Joe Rees has signed his first professional contract with Wrexham A.F.C. this summer and has successfully completed his Extended BTEC Diploma with Distinction. His determination and hard work have paid off, and he is now reaping the rewards of his efforts.
League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 7th in Championship, 71 pts, 19W-14D-13L from 46 games, recent form DLWWL. Goals this season: 69 scored, 65 conceded (+4 goal difference). Title race: 24 points behind leaders Coventry.
Wrexham A.F.C. Academy Manager, Gus Williams, added: "Joe is an incredibly deserving recipient of this award. Throughout what was a frightening and uncertain period, he demonstrated tremendous courage, patience and resilience. What impressed us most was not only his determination to return to football, but also the maturity, humility and positivity he showed throughout his recovery."
Joe Rees' Reaction
Reflecting on winning the award, Joe Rees said: "It is a really proud moment for me and my family. My first year as a scholar was really tough with what I had to go through, so it is nice to get some recognition for the resilience I had to show, so I am really proud."
Wrexham A.F.C.'s Pride
Everyone at Wrexham A.F.C. is immensely proud of Joe Rees for his achievement. His determination and resilience have inspired the entire club, and he is a shining example of what it means to be a Wrexham A.F.C. scholar.
