Fixing the Crazy Gang

A young woman finds herself at the heart of one of English football's most infamous teams

An episode of the Amazing Sport Stories podcast, hosted by BBC World Service, titled "Fixing the Crazy Gang" was published on May 27, 2024 and runs 16 minutes.

May 27, 2024 ·16m · Amazing Sport Stories

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Summary

Caroline Brouwer was one of very few women working in English men's football in the 1980s - and she found her home in one of its most infamous dressing rooms.The Wimbledon team of the late 1980s featured some of the game's most intimidating players: Vinnie Jones, Dennis Wise, John Fashanu. The press labelled them the 'Crazy Gang', notorious for their riotous behaviour and direct, physical tactics. Their fans loved them; the football establishment turned up their noses. But as they rose through the leagues, they became impossible to ignore.As one of Wimbledon's physiotherapists, Caroline helped the players deal with the rigours of a punishing training regime, but also lent a sympathetic ear away from the dressing room. Then in 1988, she was on the touchline as the team faced their greatest challenge: an FA Cup final against Liverpool, the newly crowned champions of England. What happened next would make history.Audio scenes have been re-created. Let us know what you think #AmazingSportStories

Episode Description

Caroline Brouwer was one of very few women working in English men's football in the 1980s - and she found her home in one of its most infamous dressing rooms.

The Wimbledon team of the late 1980s featured some of the game's most intimidating players: Vinnie Jones, Dennis Wise, John Fashanu. The press labelled them the 'Crazy Gang', notorious for their riotous behaviour and direct, physical tactics. Their fans loved them; the football establishment turned up their noses. But as they rose through the leagues, they became impossible to ignore.

As one of Wimbledon's physiotherapists, Caroline helped the players deal with the rigours of a punishing training regime, but also lent a sympathetic ear away from the dressing room. Then in 1988, she was on the touchline as the team faced their greatest challenge: an FA Cup final against Liverpool, the newly crowned champions of England. What happened next would make history.

Audio scenes have been re-created. Let us know what you think #AmazingSportStories