American football legend Tom Brady has become a minority owner of Championship club Birmingham City, announcing his involvement by saying he “likes being the underdog.”
Brady will take on a role as Chairman of the Advisory Board after entering in partnership with new Birmingham owners Knighthead Capital Management LLC.
The seven-time Super Bowl winner “will apply his extensive leadership experience and expertise across several components of the club, including working alongside the sports science department to advise on health, nutrition, wellness, and recovery systems and programs,” said a Birmingham statement.
“In addition, Brady will work closely with the Board and the management team on global marketing efforts and the identification of new commercial partnership opportunities for the club.”
Birmingham were taken over by US-based Shelby Companies Limited in July, a subsidiary of Knighthead Capital Management.
The Blues finished 17th in the Championship last season, their 12th consecutive year spent in the second tier of English football.
But Brady made it clear that he has high hopes for what the future holds.
“So here’s the deal. I’m officially coming on board at Birmingham City Football Club,” Brady said in a video posted on social media.
“Maybe you’re asking – what do you know about English football, Tom? Let’s just say, I’ve got a lot to learn. But I do know a few things about winning. I think they might translate pretty well.
“I know success starts with the work put in when the world isn’t watching. I know that a team is nothing without the city that shows up and stands behind it.
“Most importantly, I know I like being the underdog. The road has been long for Birmingham, but these fans have never stopped believing.
“We’ve got a song that says no matter what, you keep right on to the end of the road. And I’ll be on that road with you.
“I’ll see you at St Andrew’s soon. It’s time to get to work. Let’s go.”
The news arrives two days before the opening game of the Championship season for Birmingham, away to Swansea City on Saturday.
“Tom Brady joining the Birmingham City team is a statement of intent,” said the club’s Chairman of the Board Tom Wagner.
“We are setting the bar at world class. Tom is both investing and committing his time and extensive expertise.
“As Chair of the Advisory Board Tom will have a direct impact on the club. The men’s, women’s, and academy teams are going to benefit from the knowledge.
“The goal that Tom has committed to own is to make Birmingham City a respected leader in nutrition, health, wellness, and recovery across the world of football.”
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