Book of Memories of
Paul Wheeler
Though we’ve lost a Titan in every sense, Paul achieved something remarkable in his lifetime; he created a true legacy that lives on.
Twenty years ago, Paul was one of the founding members of London Titans FC, which has been a safe space for hundreds, possibly thousands of LGBTQ+ people across our history. As a manager, committee member, footballer and, most importantly, incredible friend to all of us, he was the embodiment of what it means to be a Titan because he helped build it; the spirit of strength, kindness and unity.
This is a space for everyone to share their memories and messages of love for Paul.
Book Owner: Ollie James-Parr
Book Size: 200 Messages
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Henry Moloney
When I think of Paul Wheeler I think of laughter. We’ve been up and down the country, and abroad, and something he would always do without fail is make me and anyone else in his presence laugh. His sense of humour would be delivered with undeniable sass and admirable wit that not many could match. Having spent some time away from Titans, a team which he helped build that gave me years of happiness and belonging, a recent trip with him to Eurogames in Vienna reminded me how much of a fun and important figure he is to so many in the LGBTQ+ football world. His good spirit will live on in both Titans and the league as a whole for years to come. He brought out competitiveness, confidence and humility in his players, and even helped me win Most Improved one year, a minor miracle! He leaves us far too early, but no doubt as a true icon….
Emily McCorquodale
I’ve been thinking a lot about what to even begin to say, and I guess trying to define what I miss the most about my darling friend, Paul, and of course it’s the whippet quick wit, the pre pub beige tapas, the shared secret side eyes, the grandad to my nana… but it’s the way he made me feel, I think. A feeling of safety comes in many forms- it’s not just how he would walk me home to make sure I didn’t get murdered between Brewers and my front door, it was how I knew if we were out doing something together, we were really in it together, he’d explain the rules of rugby to me (again) and point out the hot ones when they were on the screen so I was involved, he’d be right there behind me singing just as loud to Sugababes, he’d listen and laugh at all the right bits of my (I’m sure not always riveting) stories but also be able to eye roll me from 50 yards with the most wry ‘oh baaaaabe’ I have or will ever, hear just when I needed it. Everything together made me feel understood, safe and…
Elliot Tilbey
Ma, Thank you will never be enough for everything you’ve done for me. For founding the club that gave me everything, for having faith in me as a footballer, for giving me responsibility as your captain and your assistant, but more importantly for letting me know when I messed up. On the pitch and off it, you were always there to give me an earful. You had the quickest wit, the sharpest of reads, but they were always said in such a loving way. From day 1 at the club, to the very end, you made me feel so loved and welcomed. From sharing a room on my first Titans tour, to the last time I saw you at the Birthday Tournament. You always had such a huge smile on your face. You lit up every single room I had the pleasure of sharing with you. I’d like to say that I learned a lot from your managerial prowess but it was more the chaos that somehow ended up in decent results that was the epitome of your managerial style. An absolute icon and many of us would not have made the friends and even family that we have if…
Caolan Cassidy
Ma, you brought so much joy wherever you went. Undoubtedly one of the most quick witted people I’ve ever met but beyond that, you were kind and genuine. I remember at one of my first training sessions with the Titans, I was feeling a little shy and you made the effort to say hello and make me feel welcome – it was a small gesture but made a big difference and I know that so many others will have had similar experiences. As heartbreaking as it is that you’re no longer with us, you’ve truly left a legacy at Titans. Every time I wear the badge I’ll think of you, Ma. Rest easy x …
James Brant
You left such an impression on me Ma. You were one of the first people I met at Titans and you always made me feel so warm and welcome. Really it was bigger than that, I hadn’t fully come out when I first joined Titans. Playing for an LGBTQ+ football club was a huge deal to me and it took me a long time to feel comfortable and be myself. But you were a huge part of me feeling safe, welcomed and part of this amazing community with your big hug every week, your sass and your smile which lit up a room. I’ll miss your gramitically incoherent texts, I’ll miss the even more incoherent drunk texts, I’ll miss the Portsmouth V Southampton rivalry, I’ll miss the laughter on the sidelines and I’ll miss the warmth you brought everywhere you went. Sleep well Ma, you’ll never be forgotten xx…
Thomas Croxall-Ingram
21st November 2024 London Dearest Ma, Where do I start? You were totally unique – truly one of a kind! You had everything a friend could ask for: kindness, wit, sass, emotional intelligence, protectiveness, a listening ear, a comforting shoulder, an answer for everything, no time for fools and an ability to snap people back to reality when they needed it. It truly hurts my heart to know you’re not here to talk things through with anymore, but I’m so grateful for all the moments we shared over the years – none more so than this past year. Our moment together outside the hotel in Vienna this summer has been on loop in my mind since we lost you. Our chat, your words of reassurance, trust, and wisdom in that moment will always stay with me. To make you proud was an achievement we all aspired to, and it’s one I’ll never forget. As a friend, you made me laugh constantly. You shared your highs and lows and allowed me to share mine with you. Being your “uber lux daddy” was never a chore, though you’ve left without settling your tab! The silent moments we shared…
Ollie
Oh babe! I’m not sure where to even start, and to be honest nothing I write will ever be enough to pay tribute to just how amazing you were. You are part of the fabric of my life and I see you in all the best moments. A whole lotta history. Look what you achieved with the Titans! You were there every step of the way, from when she was born all the way through, playing, managing, serving the committee to ensure that everyone had the same opportunities and experiences you had taken. Even just this past year with our influx of new members you looked after them with the inimitable care and sass that only you could bring. Their devotion and love for you in return is a true testament to how, in my opinion, you are the best LUL manager of all time. I’ve never seen anyone else in mixed ability LGBTQ+ football achieve what you did on such a consistent basis – ensuring everyone got the playing time they deserved, knitting together teams that had no right to be so cohesive and achieving incredible results year after year. You created and fully understood the brief,…
Joe Hyland Deeson
Wheeler – a true Titan of the game in every sense. You supported me from the moment I joined the club, setting an example of what LGBTQ+ football is all about. You brought your whole self to every game, creating a culture of openness and acceptance that ran through the team. Whether you were supporting us or berating us – often both in equal measure – a Sunday at King’s House feels wrong without you on the sidelines. We will play with you in our hearts for the rest of this season and beyond. Thank you, Ma. …
Joe Marshall
Ma was one of the first to greet me on my first day at the club with a smile (and an innuendo!). Forever supportive and a true leader. Titans would not be as much of the loving club it is without you Paul. Your family, Titans, and the LGBTQ+ community has lost someone special xx…
Freddie (Yorkshire Terriers)
Paul, you were a shining light so warm and welcoming! Whether at home or abroad you it was always pleasure to be in your company. You will be sorely missed by so many people, you wonderful person! 🫶🏻 x…
Tajeán Fraser-Byrne
Dear Paul, Joining the Titans and having you as my coach gave me the chance to truly get to know you—someone I look up to so much, and who was never afraid to be unapologetically yourself. Being named your Coach Player was such an honour. I’ll cherish this mug forever and keep it in a safe place as a reminder of you. You’ll always have a place in our hearts, and I’m sure you’re up there now, enjoying a Peach Spritz and watching over us. With lots of love, Tj #TeamPaulineForever…
Gareth Davies
When you think of London Titans, you immediately think of some of the wonderful people that have been part of the club for a long time. One such person is Paul Wheeler. A great and fair opponent on the pitch and a great laugh off it. The LGBTQ+ football scene has lost one of its real characters. RIP Paul x Gareth Davies (Nottingham Lions) …
