The Forgotten Stateside Adventures of Wolves
While the European exploits of Wolverhampton Wanderers are well-documented, their lesser-known adventures in the United States in 1969 and 1981 provide an interesting glimpse into the club’s history.
With Wolves currently on their 2024 USA trip, historian Clive Corbett takes us back to the summer of 1969 when the Old Gold embarked on their first outing as Kansas City Wolves in the 1969 International Cup.
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The 1969 trip was eventful from the start, with the team facing challenges like a burst tire on landing and missing luggage incidents. Despite these setbacks, the tour took Wolves to various cities in America, including a memorable stay in Kansas City.
Reflecting on the tour, John Holsgrove shared amusing anecdotes about their time in different cities, showcasing the camaraderie and experiences the team shared.
During the tour, Wolves not only played matches but also had some interesting encounters off the field. Dougan’s interaction with Nobby Clark from Arsenal and McGarry’s decisions regarding player transfers added layers to the team’s American journey.
The tour also unearthed talent like Kenny Hibbitt, who gained recognition in a European tournament, showcasing the depth of talent in the Wolves squad.
One of the lasting legacies of the 1969 tour was the discovery of Frank Munro’s defensive abilities, which proved to be a valuable asset for Wolves for years to come.
Additionally, the tour provided unique cultural experiences and memorable moments for the players, as documented in Mike Bailey’s U.S. diary.
Fast forward to 1981, Wolves made a brief visit to Florida, with John McAlle recalling the tour and the entertaining experiences they had, including a memorable encounter with alligators and a visit to Universal Studios.
Despite the loss in the match against the Jacksonville Teamen, the tour left a lasting impression on the players, highlighting the bond and memories they shared as a team.
As we look back on these forgotten stateside adventures of Wolves, we realize the significance of these trips in shaping the club’s history and the lasting memories they created for the players involved.
