At British Football Club Tokyo, we’ve always believed that football is more than just a game—it’s a community, a lifeline and a language we all speak, no matter where we’re from. So it’s been incredibly inspiring to watch the rise of Wrexham AFC since Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took the reins.

Their story—Now in it’s 4th season on Welcome to Wrexham (available on Disney+ and Apple TV)— is a modern football fairytale, filled with real heart, grit, and a deep sense of community. Three consecutive promotions, yes. But more than that, a club reborn with purpose. You see it in how they treat their players, those connected with the club, how they speak about mental health, and how they invest in the town—not just the team.

It really is. Whether it’s “a bunch of blokes having a chat over a brew and biscuit” or a drink after a game at YC&AC, the message is the same: you’re not alone. 

These episodes also touched on the emotional realities of being an outsider—something many of us at BFC know well. Moving countries, starting again, searching for connection. Football has helped us build that bridge in Tokyo, and we’re proud of the inclusive, supportive community we’ve become.

If you’re facing challenges, or just need to talk, please know there are places to turn:

TELL Japan English-language mental health support and counselling in Japan

Andy’s Man Club (UK-based but globally respected)

Movember Movement Promoting men’s mental health and suicide prevention, one moustache at a time

Wrexham shows us that football can change lives—on and off the pitch. Here in Tokyo, we’re doing our part to live that message too.

So from one football family to another:
Diolch, Wrexham. Keep going. You’re inspiring more people than you know.