Schechterle, who was badly burnt in a car accident when serving as a Phoenix police officer back in 2001, is able to remind everyone involved at the club about the importance of where the club’s funds come from (the pension pot for retired safety personnel in Arizona, USA) and reiterate the meaning behind the club’s ‘running towards adversity’ mantra.
He first visited last July, just ahead of the 2022/23 season kicking off, and returned last Wednesday as a surprise for the players he had connected with so strongly with.
“It’s been great to see him again,” said McKenna. “The mood was already good, but it’s given us a real boost having Jason back.
Jason Schechterle speaks to Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna and captain Sam Morsy. (Image: Richard Calver / ITFC)
“He was a big part of setting the season up. He spent some time with us before the first game and I know his words and his manner really touched everybody. He has been an inspiration for us right through the season.
“He’s a reminder to the whole group of the support that we have across the world, the support we have from the ownership group in America and from the people behind the pension fund.
“It’s great for the new players and staff to meet him for the first time and give them a better understanding of the people that we are representing.”
Town defender Harry Clarke, who joined from Arsenal in January, said: “I didn’t have the honour of meeting Jason when he first visited the club, so it’s good that he has come back this week.
“He’s an absolutely incredible man who puts life into perspective. He makes you realise how lucky you are and how we should be grateful for the little things in life.”
