Wakefield wake up after USA investment

By Jon Couch

AMBITIOUS Wakefield AFC are targeting a monumental climb up the Non-League ladder after securing a new ‘large investment’ in the club.

The new investment – amount undisclosed – will allow Wakefield AFC to continue expanding its football operations, education programs, youth academy, and women’s teams.

Also, as part of the deal, VO2 Capital will sponsor a new Football Performance Department that will work both on performance on the field and analytics for scouting and recruiting.

Guilherme Decca, a Brazilian-American founder and CEO of VO2 capital, will be part of Wakefield AFC’s board of Directors alongside executives Chris Turner – the former Manchester United and Sheffield Wednesday goalkeeper – and Mike Hegarty.

“It is a dream come true to get involved with football in the UK,” Decca said.

“Born in Brazil, football is part of my DNA, and I’ve been following English football since the exploits of Gazza and co in Italia 90.

“[David] Platt’s goal against Belgium is still one of the most exciting moments I’ve experienced in football.

“In Wakefield, we found not only a big city without a club in the Football League but also a fantastic group of people working for the club, strong volunteer support, and no legacy issues that one would encounter in so many clubs in divisions above ours.

“We recognise there’s a long way to go until we get to the level we want to be.

“However, we believe that a well-run club with community shareholders, partnerships with local businesses, no leverage/debt, and investment in data and performance analysis can grow fast and, more importantly, in a self-sustainable way.”

Mike Hegarty, the association owner, commented on the investment: “We have a very special project here.”