Carlsberg Trophy Danny Wright celebrates
Wrexham AFC’s FA Trophy-winning team on 24 March 2013 at Wembley Stadium remains one of the club’s defining modern moments, and more than a decade on, the starting XI have taken different paths across football and beyond.
The victory came during a period of rebuilding under supporter ownership, with Wrexham competing in the Conference and looking to re-establish stability after years of financial uncertainty.
That group delivered silverware at Wembley, and while the result is fixed in the club’s history, the careers that followed have varied widely, from long EFL journeys to roles in coaching and non-league football.
The goalkeeper who built a long EFL career
Chris Maxwell was already a key figure in 2013, and his career developed significantly after leaving Wrexham.
He played for Fleetwood Town, Preston North End and Blackpool, winning promotion and individual honours before finishing his career at Huddersfield Town and retiring in 2025.
Maxwell has since moved into football development, focusing on leadership and structural roles within the game.
The Wembley hero still playing today
Johnny Hunt’s place in Wrexham history is secured by his winning penalty at Wembley, and his career has continued across multiple levels.
After leaving Wrexham, he played for Cambridge United, Stevenage and Hamilton Academical before moving into non-league football.
He remains active in the semi-professional game, with his moment in 2013 still the defining image of his career.
The captain and core of the midfield
Dean Keates captained the side at Wembley and later returned to lead the club as manager, with his career progression confirmed by BBC.
He has held multiple managerial roles, including two spells at Wrexham, while maintaining a strong connection to the club.
Jay Harris also built a notable career, earning back-to-back promotions with Tranmere Rovers before returning briefly to Wrexham.
Kevin Thornton, who scored in the final, moved into non-league football after his time at the Racecourse.
The defence and experience behind the run
The defensive unit combined experience and consistency throughout the Wembley run, with the starting XI confirmed by The Wrexham Archive:
Stephen Wright transitioned into coaching roles after his playing career, while Chris Westwood retired from professional football.
Martin Riley continued his career in non-league, representing several clubs after leaving Wrexham.
The forwards and leadership at Wembley
Andy Morrell led the team as player-manager and later moved into coaching and media work.
Danny Wright went on to achieve promotion to the Football League with Cheltenham Town before retiring in 2024, according to Gloucestershire Live.
Brett Ormerod, the most experienced forward in the squad, retired in 2016 following a long career across the Football League.
The Class of 2013 shared a defining moment at Wembley, but their careers have since taken different directions, reflecting the level Wrexham were operating at during that period and the varied paths available beyond it.
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