A heartfelt story of unity and support that transcends sports rivalries in Wigan.
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In March, a community united in a powerful display of solidarity. When Darren Orme, a well-known figure among Wigan Athletic supporters, went missing, a small search effort quickly transformed into a massive wave of support. Over 100 people gathered at the Brickmakers Arms pub, illustrating that in times of crisis, divisions can dissolve.
The Power of Unity in Adversity
Wigan has a long-standing rivalry between football and rugby fans. However, as the search for Darren extended over weeks, an unexpected shift occurred: Warriors fans joined forces with Latics supporters. Players from both clubs held up banners calling for help, while head coaches Ryan Lowe of the Latics and Matt Peet of the Warriors leveraged their platforms to amplify the search.
This moment illustrated how tragedy can unite rather than divide.
Tragically, Darren’s body was later found near the Brick Community Stadium, home to both teams. At his funeral in April, players from both clubs formed a guard of honor, symbolizing respect and shared grief.
Sarah Guilfoyle, managing director of Wigan Athletic, remarked that the event brought the clubs closer than ever before. It served as a poignant reminder of what can be accomplished through unity.
A New Era of Collaboration
The aftermath of this tragedy has fostered a new relationship between Wigan Athletic and the Warriors. Under the ownership of Mike Danson, both clubs are collaborating closely, sharing resources and efforts. They have even moved their communications and commercial teams into the same open-plan space at the Warriors’ training base, signifying a substantial change in their dynamic.
As part of this collaborative spirit, the ‘Wigan Weekender’ initiative was introduced. Fans attending the Warriors’ home match can purchase half-price tickets for the Latics’ League One match the following day. This marks a refreshing shift from previous years, particularly during the 1980s when mistrust and rivalry were prevalent, leaving Latics fans feeling marginalized.
Learning and Growing Together
Both clubs are now prioritizing mutual benefits. Wigan Athletic aims to learn from the Warriors, who are currently excelling in their sport. Ryan Lowe, the Latics’ manager, has been observing the Warriors during their games, eager to absorb their winning culture. This shared learning environment is paving the way for growth and improvement for both teams.
Interestingly, the collaboration extends beyond ticket offers. The clubs are sharing training facilities, and players are engaging in friendly competitions, testing each other’s skills. This initiative is aimed at breaking down barriers and nurturing community ties. As Guilfoyle stated, “We previously operated in silos, and it makes no sense not to combine our resources.”
As both clubs seek common ground, it’s clear the spirit of Wigan is deeply rooted in its community. With a shared vision for the future, Wigan Athletic and the Warriors are not merely rival teams—they represent two sides of the same coin, working together to uplift their town and its residents. Who else believes this marks the beginning of something beautiful for Wigan? 🌟
