Hollywood actor Vinnie Jones is well-known throughout the world thanks to his parts in movies like X-Men: The Last Stand, Snatch, and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. But Jones was a professional football player long before he appeared on TV, and he began his career in the football scene with Wealdstone FC.
Jones joined Wealdstone FC, situated in Harrow at the time, now in Ruislip, in 1984. Because of his rough tackling style and never-say-die mentality, he rapidly became a fan favourite. During his two seasons with Wealdstone, Jones helped the team win the National League and FA Trophy in 1985, the first ever ‘non-league double’ – and developed a reputation as one of non-league football’s most feared players.
Jones would play for Wealdstone, known as ‘The Stones’, on the weekends whilst working a day job at the same time as a labourer. A rowdy and volatile midfielder, Jones was soon to make a name for himself attracting interest from top clubs.
Jones’ stint at Wealdstone nevertheless aided the beginning of his professional football career. He was soon scouted and snapped up by Wimbledon FC in 1986 and went on to play a significant role in the “Crazy Gang” squad that won the FA Cup in 1988.
Although Jones is now best recognised for his acting work, his experience with Wealdstone FC nonetheless played a significant role in his rise to fame.
He will also always be regarded by club supporters as one of the hardest and most memorable athletes to ever don the Wealdstone shirt.
