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Joel Burgess
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…
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Helen Ward
PLAYER STORY “Players need to be people first” Helen Ward Head of Women’s Football at Watford FC reflects on the financial realities of the women’s game and preparing for a second career. Helen Ward is one of the most respected figures in women’s football, earning over 100 international caps for Wales and enjoying a distinguished…
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Rob Milsom
PLAYER STORY “The first challenge is asking for help” Rob Milsom Beneficiary Liaison Officer Rob Milsom on financial realities, identity and breaking down barriers Former professional footballer Rob Milsom enjoyed a career spanning more than a decade across the Premier League and EFL before transitioning into coaching and player support. Drawing on his own experiences…
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Tom Rennardson
PLAYER STORY “I want to be more than just a footballer” Tom Rennardson Former Grimsby Town scholar on resilience, education and creating opportunities beyond the game. Tom Rennardson spent two years in the academy system at Grimsby Town, enjoying memorable Youth Cup runs and opportunities to train alongside senior professionals. Despite performing well and being…
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Toby Bull
PLAYER STORY “Football gives you a career. Purpose gives you direction” Toby Bull Former Brighton & Hove Albion Goalkeeper, Entrepreneur and Content Creator. Toby Bull experienced the highs of academy and first-team football before seeing injury and circumstance alter the course of his playing career. Rather than viewing education and business as a fallback, Toby…
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Andy Liddell
PLAYER STORY “Nothing replaces playing football” Andy Liddell Fitness Coach, Preston North End | Former Professional Footballer Andy Liddell enjoyed a successful professional playing career spanning more than 20 years, representing clubs including Barnsley, Wigan Athletic, Sheffield United and Oldham Athletic. Following retirement, he transitioned into coaching and now works as Fitness Coach at Preston…
