William McGregor, best known as the founder of the English Football League, was born on April 13, 1846, in Scotland. He grew up in Perthshire and served his apprenticeship as a draper in Perth. In 1870, McGregor followed his brother to Birmingham, where he established a business in the Aston area of the city.
Upon moving to Birmingham, McGregor set up a draper's shop where he sold football kits. His shop quickly became a popular meeting place for football fans, establishing McGregor as a key figure in the local football community. McGregor's passion for the sport led him to play a pivotal role in the organization of football leagues in England.
In 1888, McGregor proposed the idea of the English Football League, the first organized football league in the world. He envisioned a league that would bring together the best clubs in England to compete on a regular basis. McGregor's vision became a reality when the Football League was officially formed, with McGregor serving as its first chairman.
McGregor's contributions to the world of football were immense. From 1888 to 1892, he served as chairman of the League's Management Committee and later as the League's President from 1892 until 1894. At the same time, McGregor also held the position of chairman of the Football Association between 1888 and 1894.
William McGregor was not only a pioneer in the world of football but also a family man. He was married to Jessie and had a son and a daughter. McGregor's legacy lives on in the form of the English Football League, which continues to be a pillar of the English footballing community.
McGregor shares a birthday with fellow football figure Peter Davison. His innovative spirit and passion for the sport have left an indelible mark on the world of football, cementing his status as the "father of The Football League."