A man changes his name to honour his beloved football club
A man has legally changed his name to include the football club he loves. Keith Thripp is now known as “Mr Keith Dorking Wanderers FC Thripp” after falling in love with the non-league side, reports BritPanorama.
Thripp engaged with the team and attended a training session in late September, where he was described as a “legend” by club manager and owner Marc White.
In explaining his decision, Thripp recounted, “I was sitting on my bed one morning, getting ready to go to work, before I had this idea. I went online, found the facilities, paid £60, and got it changed.” Discussing his rekindled passion for football, he added, “I had fallen out of love with football [until] I saw Marc and the Wanderers on YouTube – that’s where it all started for me.”
Thripp emphasised the warm atmosphere at Dorking Wanderers, saying, “It’s about being made to feel appreciated and part of the journey. I love it.” He has also tattooed the manager’s face on his upper leg, illustrating his dedication; White remarked on Thripp’s commitment, noting, “He goes above and beyond the call of duty for fans and the club.”
Thripp affirmatively declared he would never regret his name change or tattoo, stating he is “in it for the long haul” and enjoys his involvement too much to ever walk away.
Dorking Wanderers, founded in 1999, have made a remarkable ascent through the non-league system, achieving promotions 12 times and reaching the National League. The club currently competes in the sixth tier and sits ninth in the league, with aspirations of advancing to the FA Cup first round proper.
The club has also become notable for its engaging YouTube series, ‘Dorking Uncovered,’ which provides insights into life at the club, creating a wider supporter base beyond the local area.
As the Wanderers continue to captivate fans, Thripp’s story reminds us of the deep connections forged between clubs and their supporters, where passion and identity intertwine in unexpected ways.
