28 October 2005
By SELINA PHILLIPS
A
PAIR of Wrexham FC legends educated in the school of hard knocks of 1970s
football celebrated with the latest graduates at NEWI yesterday.
Joey Jones, fans' favourite with Wrexham, Liverpool and Wales, was made an
honorary fellow of NEWI at a prestigious graduation ceremony in the William
Aston Hall.
Wrexham's reserve team coach, was honoured by the college for his services to
sport.
Also at the ceremony was former Reds player and manager Dixie McNeil, who
proudly watched his son Richard receive his degree in sports science at the
ceremony.
Joey was, for several years, the most capped footballer in Wales and during his
21-year career he won almost every honour in the game, including the European
Cup and Football League, with Liverpool.
Despite his sporting achievements Joey remains modest.
He said: "I'm slightly embarrassed because I am no different to everyone else, I
just played football.
"Obviously I feel very honoured and privileged to receive this title.
"I would like to accept this on behalf of the football clubs I played for, the
people of Wrexham and charity organisations."
Joey grew up in Llandudno and joined Wrexham as an apprentice in 1970 making his
first team debut two years later at the age of just 17.
After
playing for Liverpool for a number of years Joey returned to Wrexham in 1978
before he was snapped up by Chelsea where he became the club's Player of the
Year in his first season.
Joey has many fond and funny memories of his time in Wrexham.
He added: "I was actually sent to this college one time and me and my friend
ended up locking a teacher in the caretaker's cupboard and popping into town for
the day.
"It has been some time since I have been to NEWI but it's great to come back for
this graduation ceremony.
"It's great to be so close to The Racecourse ground again and this is where I
met my wife so I have warm memories of the place.
"I would like to thank NEWI for making me an honorary fellow."
Dixie's son, Richard, got a 2:1 in sports science.
Dixie said: "Like every other father here today I am so proud of Richard.
"He has worked very hard over the last three years and he has a great career
ahead of him so I wish him well."
Richard said: "I have had a fantastic day and it's a great way to finish off the
course."