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David Harrison appointed as new Chief Executive Officer by Foundation Board
The Board of Trustees at The Players Foundation has announced the appointment of David Harrison as the charity’s new CEO, taking over from the retiring Stephen Claus. David is a hugely experienced and highly respected senior executive in the world of football, having previously held the position of Director of Football Operations at both Manchester…
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Brentford FC coach highlights virtues of better player education
As a graduate of the Premier League’s Professional Player to Coach Scheme, Jon-Paul Pittman is now an Individual Development Coach at Brentford and is a strong believer in players securing the best possible education. With the support of The Players Foundation, Jon-Paul recently completed a Master’s degree (MSc Sport Coaching) at Leeds Beckett University and…
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Brendon Batson sees 2026 as a ‘year of opportunity’ for the Foundation
The Chairman of The Players Foundation, Brendon Batson OBE, believes 2026 will be a year of strong growth for the charity, with partnerships and engagement across the football family at the heart of the organisation’s priorities. Brendon said: ‘The Trustees are delighted with the Foundation’s progress in the last 12 months, and we see this…
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‘We’re here for the players’ – Rob Milsom on his new role with the Foundation
During a 20-year playing career, Rob Milsom made over 450 appearances across England’s top five divisions and the Scottish Premier League. Now, he’s taken on the role of Beneficiary Liaison Officer with The Players Foundation, joining from Fulham FC, where he was an academy coach. Rob and his fellow Beneficiary Liaison Officer, former Wales striker…
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Foundation unveils support for academy graduates on USA development initiative
The Players Foundation today announced its support for League Football Education (LFE) in delivering its Global Showcase and Development programme in the USA. Twenty graduates of English Football League (EFL) academies have arrived in Tampa Bay, Florida, for a unique 10-day experience, which is also backed by US Sports Scholarships, the United Soccer League (USL)…
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Foundation Chairman says strong connection with players is vital to offer the right support
The Chairman of The Players Foundation, Brendon Batson OBE, says the charity’s appointment of two former Premier League footballers as Beneficiary Liaison Officers is a huge step forward in understanding the needs of former players. Simon Haworth and Rob Milsom will serve as the essential link between the work of the Foundation and the former…
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More than 200 players benefit from Foundation’s student living grant
The Players Foundation announced today that more than 200 applicants had received support from the Student Living Expense Grant, which closed last week. In total, the charity distributed over £300,000 to former professional footballers and scholars. The grant is designed to ease the financial burden of basic living costs, including rent, utilities and food, so…
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‘Female players face a difficult balancing act’ – Helen Ward, Watford FC Women
Former Wales international striker, Helen Ward, enjoyed a storied playing career, with 105 caps and 44 goals for her country. At club level, Helen’s career spanned 16 years, taking in Watford, Arsenal, Chelsea and Reading, before her retirement in 2023. Today, Helen is Head of Women’s Football at Watford FC, where the team is currently…
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Foundation welcomes Simon Haworth and Rob Milsom to the team
The Players Foundation today announced the appointment of two former Premier League footballers – Simon Haworth and Rob Milsom – as the charity’s new Beneficiary Liaison Officers. The Foundation offers charitable support to current and former professional footballers and scholars. Both Simon and Rob will provide an essential link between the work of the Foundation…
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Former Burton Albion scholar among first 100 recipients of new Foundation grant
Former Burton Albion midfielder, Ronny Wakelin, who’s now studying at a university in America, is one of the first footballers to receive a Student Living Expense Grant, launched by The Players Foundation in September. Ronny spent eight years at Burton and made his first team debut in November 2023 but six months later, he was…
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The Players Foundation Board appoints two new Trustees
The Board of Trustees at The Players Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment of Harpreet Robertson and Rob Clare as new members of the Board. Harpreet and Rob bring with them a huge wealth of experience in football, alongside extensive knowledge of senior leadership and governance. They are both passionate advocates of inclusivity and…
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Garth Crooks urges young players to prepare for a second career
Former Tottenham Hotspur striker, Garth Crooks OBE, has been reflecting on the importance of education for young players who are forced to leave the game early. While he was still playing, Garth secured a degree in social science and politics before going on to complete a postgraduate diploma in sports law. After retiring from the…
