Leeds United
John Reynolds’ name may not be immediately recognizable to all Leeds United fans, but his legacy is deeply embedded in the fabric of Elland Road. Employed at the club for nearly 60 years, Reynolds’ journey began in 1953 when he joined as a youth player. Despite an unfortunate ACL injury at West Brom that ended his playing career, Reynolds transitioned into a pivotal role on the ground staff, eventually becoming the head groundsman and stadium manager.
Stephen Reynolds said: “[John] did his ACL at West Brom in a Youth Cup game and eventually had to retire. The club offered him a job on the ground staff which he accepted, he ended up head groundsman and stadium manager. He then moved to take charge up at Thorp Arch when that opened and when he died, he’d worked for the club a month short of 60 years.”
Reynolds’ dedication is perhaps best exemplified by his innovative use of an old well at Elland Road. The well, originally part of a pumping station servicing mines in the 1800s, was rediscovered during excavation work for the new Kop in 1968. Located in the north-west corner of the stadium, it became a crucial water source for the club, especially during times of drought.
Stephen Reynolds recalled: “During the very hot summer of 1976, John worked nights for 10 weeks watering the pitch, because there was a hosepipe ban. He said, ‘we’ve got our own well, I can use the water from that’. Which he did, but it was also supplemented, shall we say, by town water. So if you flew over Leeds in 1976, every bit of grass was parched except one bit of green at Elland Road. He used to sleep down in his store until the morning.”
John Reynolds’ story is a testament to the working-class ethos that runs through Leeds United and its home, Elland Road. His innovative spirit and unwavering dedication ensured that the club’s pitch remained in top condition, even under challenging circumstances. Reynolds’ legacy is a reminder of the many unsung heroes who have contributed to the club’s rich history, making Elland Road not just a stadium, but a cherished home for Leeds United.
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