AN AMERICAN woman 'hooked' on Wrexham AFC says a minority of 'hostile' fans won't put her off enjoying her first trip to north Wales
Sheri Hofling's interest in Wrexham AFC was sparked after the first few episodes of the docu-series, Welcome to Wrexham.
The 49-year-old, from Colorado, had no previous interest in football or sport, until she saw an interview with co-owners Rob McElehnney and Ryan Reynolds on American TV.
After watching the Hollywood pair discuss the football pyramid in the UK, Sheri started watching Welcome to Wrexham, which is where her obsession began.
She said: "If you told me a year ago my life would be fundamentally changed because I'd be super passionate about any team or any sport, let alone a lower-tier football club in Wales, I would've laughed.
"At the time the interview aired, only the first few episodes of the documentary had been released. I was hooked instantly.
"I knew nothing about football but was drawn in by the people of Wrexham, their connection to the club, and the idea of promotion and relegation in sports.
READ MORE: Here's when Welcome to Wrexham season two will be available to watch
"After those first few episodes, I started down the Wrexham rabbit hole, googling current standings and finding podcasts, articles and videos. I wanted to learn more about the club, town and sport.
"I like to say the documentary hooked us, but Mark Griffiths turned us into real fans."
A year on and after not missing a game since her interest peaked, Sheri is 'all-in' on Wrexham.
She added: "I haven't missed a match since I watched that interview with Rob and Ryan in September last year.
"Tuesday games are at 12.45pm in my time zone, right in the middle of the work day, so I rearranged my work schedule so I wouldn't miss a match.
"Saturday games are usually at 8am for me, which is perfect, but some can be as early as 4am or 5am. No problem! Totally worth waking up early for.
"I may not know all the history and every player and story from the past 50 years, but I consider myself a true fan.
"Not only do I watch every single match, I also devour all the podcasts, articles and matchday vlogs I can find and interact with lots of other fans on social media. I've purchased nearly every item from the club shop I could get my hands on."
READ MORE: Tickets to Wrexham AFC vs Walsall game sell out in minutes
After flying to LA over the weekend to watch the Reds take on LA Galaxy, Sheri is preparing to make her first trip to Wrexham early next month.
She said: "We're coming to Wrexham primarily for the two matches (MK Dons and Wigan) but I'm just as excited to finally see the town and meet as many locals as I can.
"Sure, there are a few vocal and hostile moaners on social media who aren't happy about internationals taking tickets, but the vast majority of Wrexham locals have been unbelievably welcoming and kind.
"Someone even reached out to offer me rides or any help I need while I'm in town, which I think is absolutely incredible. Another person offered to help me get tickets to the matches if I wasn't lucky with the ticketing system.
"The people of Wrexham are truly amazing. No wonder the world is falling in love with them and their town.
"I'd love to meet the celebrities of Wrexham too, Mark Griffiths, Phil Parkinson and any of the players. I'd also love to meet Wayne Jones, Shaun Winter, Michael Hett, and fellow happy clapper Annette Gardner.
"I want to visit all the places I've heard about: The Turf, Wrexham Lager, Fat Boar, the aqueduct, St. Giles church, and of course I'd love to get a photo inside an empty Cae Ras."
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