PLAYER STORY
“I thought football was everything“
Joel Burgess
Former Bolton Wanderers scholar Joel Burgess on rejection, resilience and finding a new path
Joel spent two years in the academy system at Bolton Wanderers, captaining the youth team during his second season. Like thousands of young footballers, his ambition was to earn a professional contract and continue his career in the game.
When that opportunity didn’t materialise, Joel was forced to make a difficult decision about his future. He is now studying Law at Newcastle University while continuing to play football at a high level.
For many young footballers, the end of an academy scholarship can feel like the end of a dream.
After two years at Bolton Wanderers and captaining the youth team, Joel learned he would not be offered a professional contract. While the decision was disappointing, he quickly recognised the realities facing most academy players and began planning for life beyond football.
Joel chose to study Law at Newcastle University while continuing to play competitive football. Alongside the challenges of university life and maintaining a high level of sporting commitment, financial pressures became a significant concern.
Support from The Players Foundation via the Student Living Expense Grant, helped ease those pressures, allowing Joel to focus on both his studies and football without sacrificing either. His story demonstrates the importance of preparing for multiple potential futures and recognising that success after football can take many forms.
INTERVIEW
“You don’t have to just be set on football.”
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