For Wrexham fans, Elliot Lee’s No. 38 jersey will always be one of the most iconic pictures of the club’s amazing journey to success. However, for Lee himself, this number is more than just a shirt number.
While studying at West Ham United Academy, Lee became good friends with the other Australian youngster Dylan Tombides who had played for Australia national team at the Under-17 World Cup in 2011.
That same year, while playing in the World Cup, Dylan got a positive test result on a random drug testing and a tumor was discovered. He was diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Dylan tried to continue his career despite being ill, but he passed away on April 18, 2014, at the age of only 20 years old.
He used to wear jersey No. 38 in his squad at West Ham.
Why Lee chose No. 38
Since the death of one of his best mates, Lee has been playing wearing the No. 38 jersey to honor Tombides’ legacy.
There have been public announcements by Lee about the tribute, including his support for the DT38 Foundation aimed at raising awareness about testicular cancer.
However Lee has not always stuck to this number. While playing for Luton he wore the No. 10 jersey, stating that Tombides would want him to take advantage of the chance.
More than just a player number
At Wrexham, the No. 38 has been closely linked with Lee’s goal scoring ability and creativity in leading the club through three consecutive promotions.
Lee was one of the key players helping the team to win promotions from National League, League Two and League One consecutively.
A legacy that lives on
The story behind No. 38 tells yet another tale of the relationship between Lee and Wrexham fans.
It is proof that many of the most inspiring tales of the game are not about winning or losing.
Each and every time Lee puts on the jersey with No. 38, Tombides’ name lives on.
This is why No. 38 will always mean much more than just the name on the back of the jersey.
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