Oldham Athletic’s heroes received a hero’s welcome at the Civic Centre on Tuesday, just two days after their dramatic National League play-off triumph at Wembley secured the club’s return to the English Football League.

Council Leader Cllr Arooj Shah led tributes to owner Frank Rothwell, his wife Judith, manager Micky Mellon, captain Tom Conlon, striker Mike Fondop and CEO Darren Royle at the triumphant reception. The delegation was played into the venue by Oldham Music Centre Youth Brass Band, who performed Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” in recognition of the club’s dramatic return to league football.

“What a momentous day Sunday was for Oldham! We welcome home not just a football team, but a symbol of resilience, pride, and unwavering spirit,” Cllr Shah declared. “After a hard-fought season and a triumphant play-off final, you’ve brought glory back to the Borough. You’ve reminded us all what it means to fight for something bigger than ourselves, to never give up, and to believe in the power of community.”

Rothwell, who purchased the club in 2022 and previously received the Freedom of the Borough in 2021, shared his business philosophy that guided the club’s resurrection: “If you’re starting up a new business or you’re buying a business that might be in dire straits, there’s three phases that you have to go through. First of all you have to survive. You have to get over that first month’s payments, the second month’s payments and survive the first year. Once you’ve survived the first year, wow, you’re on a roller now. So then you’ve got to consolidate and build your strengths.”

The celebration continued with performances of “Sweet Caroline” and “Mamma Mia” before the party moved to Boundary Park for music, fireworks and a trophy parade.

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