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 released. Now, at the age of 19, he’s studying finance at the University of West Alabama, as well as playing regularly for the college football team.

After applying for the £1,500 grant last month, Ronny received the money from the Foundation within a matter of days: ‘I was buzzing! It was a fast, helpful process and I couldn’t believe how quick everything was. I know some lads who have to go home because they can’t afford to stay out in America, so this grant is massively important.’

Ronny has so far made more than 20 appearances for the West Alabama Tigers and relishes the opportunity to combine football and education.

‘Coming out here, you’ve got the best of both worlds. Professional football remains an option, but education opens so many other doors and jobs – with my finance degree, I could work out here or back home, it’s really exciting to have so many paths.’

It feels a lifetime away from the moment last year when Ronny learned that he wasn’t being offered a professional contract at Burton: ‘People say there’s more to life than football but when you’re sat down having a conversation that shapes your future, it feels like your world has ended and that you’ve lost your identity.’

And he added: ‘I’ve had to face the harsh reality, get my stuff together and move on with my life to the next chapter. I just want to carry on enjoying what I’m doing at university and know that I’m making everyone at home feel proud.’

The Student Living Expense Grant is designed to ease the financial burden of basic living costs, including rent, utilities and food, so that beneficiaries can focus on their studies and prepare for successful post-football careers.

Applications will remain open until October 31^st. You can apply here Student Living Expense Grant Application – The Players Foundation