It is easy to focus on the short-term rewards over the longer-term goals. For young people like footballers who are craving a professional contract, this is understandable. But that means that as parents, guardians and family members supporting those players, we need to focus on the longer term.
Claims that only 0.012% 'make-it' do little to advance our understanding of this topic and, therefore, are of little use for players trying to prepare for their careers or the parents and guardians supporting them. So let's dig a little deeper.
Over the years of researching this topic, I have read many stories of the treatment young players were exposed to. My research allowed me to dig deeper, and I have outlined some of it here.
Being viewed by others as "big time" is a risk in any professional football academy. It is a sign that you do not have a good attitude. But what is "big time", we can dive into the data to unpick that a little.
Society tends to simplify our worth down to our football performance, and many players internalise this message. We begin to believe that football defines us. But here’s the thing: Football is something you do, not who you are. That shift in perspective is vital.
This blog is inspired by a question posed by a Player Care Manager at a professional football club on LinkedIn. I was moved to respond to the question because of my experiences in this area and the data that supported my view.
Why would a professional football club look out for the welfare of a young player? The answer, in most cases, is they won’t. Read the full article to learn more.
Semi-professional football occupies a vast and unique space within the English football pyramid, bridging the gap between amateur and professional levels. But what is it like to play there?
We know that many young players have begun to disengage with education before they undertake their scholarship. We know that then they will be 'spoon fed' their education at an academy developing in them 'learned helplessness'. Despite this, we know that they will pass the qualifications.
In recent months, it has become clear that the financial rules clubs have to abide by have constrained them to sell academy players. But, why is this the case?
If you are a scholar, you will encounter authoritarian leadership. You need to be prepared for that or you will not last long in that environment
It is just as important to prepare yourself for getting a professional contract as it is for not getting one. There are few places this applies more than when it comes to the financial aspects of a career.
