Beyond the Hollywood story - what are Wrexham really building?

Beyond the Hollywood story - what are Wrexham really building?Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Wrexham, founded in 1864, are the third oldest professional football club in the world and the oldest in WalesByMolly StephensFootball reporterPublished2 minutes agoFor many football fans, Wrexham's rise might have been defined by the story and subsequent success of the men's first team.The promotions, the documentary cameras and the celebrity ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac have transformed the club into one of the most recognisable football narratives in the world.But focusing only on the men's side misses the bigger story unfolding behind the scenes.While back-to-back-to-back promotions generate the headlines, Wrexham's most important work may be happening away from the spotlight, through investment in the women's team, youth development and long-term infrastructure.The club's rapid rise has created worldwide attention, but the decisions being made beneath the surface suggest Wrexham are trying to build something far more sustainable than a short-lived fairytale.BBC Sport looks at why there is more to Wrexham than the quest for the Premier League.Wrexham womenCo-chairmen Reynolds and Mac pledged investment into the women's programme when they took over in 2021.Since then, the team have steadily evolved from a subsidiary part of the club into a serious project with long-term ambitions.Like the overall profile of the club, the Welcome to Wrexham documentary has helped to enhance the profile of the women's side and grow their fanbase.The start of that growth became evident when in 2023 a Welsh women's domestic record crowd of 9,511 watched Wrexham lift the Adran North title at the Racecourse Ground, with Reynolds, wife and Hollywood actress Blake Lively, and Mac in attendance.Days later Wrexham secured their tier one domestic licence - a milestone that requires clubs to meet higher standards in coaching, administr...