Welcome to Inside the Football Factory.
Hi all – I’m Johnny. A former academy and professional footballer, and now a trainee Clinical Psychologist.
First and foremost, this Substack is for:
Released players – navigating life after football
Parents of academy players – understanding the journey and protecting your child
and Coaches, player care officers, welfare staff and wider professionals – seeking change
After much observation and personal experience throughout my time in the football industry – as well as stories shared from friends, teammates, and many an acquaintance along the way – I had been aware that the beautifully curated football world isn’t quite all it seems. What goes on behind the scenes is drastically different to the viewpoint of avid fans, casual observers, and most of all, the young kids and their families that start getting invited to trials and signing for academies for the first time.
I originally couldn’t think of anything worse than re-immersing myself back into research about all of this – I was keen to go off and do something more psychology related. But that all changed when I heard of the death of Jeremy Wisten – who took his life in late 2020, after being released by Man City.
I have since learnt of four other similar tragedies: Josh Lyons, Joe Darlington, Matthew Langton, and Rheiss McLean.
Since Jeremys death, I have published a paper, trying to understand what happens to young footballers after they get released.
I interviewed 8 former players who gave insight into losing their identity, issues faced transitioning out of the game, and the apparent lack of Aftercare provided by their clubs.
I want to make this research more accessible. And shine a light on the many issues young footballers face when they leave the game. Hence why this Substack exists.
I’ve not fully got my head around Substack yet and as I’m currently completing the Dclinpsy so I’m not sure exactly how much I will, or wont, be writing (assignments and new research etc. may get in the way). I’m also dyslexic so speed isn’t my strong point so bear with me.
There will likely be some psychology. And some life stuff too. But we’ll start with the inner world of academy and professional football – and see where it goes.
Thanks for reading. And if you subscribe, I’m told it helps me grow on here – so thank you in advance.
Johnny
I’d also love to hear from you regarding any stories or issues related to academy or professional football.
Email me at: contact@johnnygorman.com
Click here for more articles and podcasts I feature on relating to this topic.
Please note: this Substack is separate from my clinical training and current research.
