When Sam James secured a place as a scholar at Newport County in 2014, he had dreams of achieving his ambition of a professional contract with the League Two club.
However, he was released two years later and decided to move to America, where he studied at university while maintaining a high standard of football. With a degree in physical education and coaching, and a master’s in business administration, he returned to the UK, well positioned to pursue a new career.
With the support of a Student Living Expense Grant from The Players Foundation, 28-year-old Sam is now studying to be a primary school teacher at Bangor University in North Wales.
‘I want to do everything I can to help the next generation, so being a teacher is ideal for me – more than anything, I wanted to work with people, making the most of my life experience in football and my education in the USA.
‘The impact of The Players Foundation grant has been massive. It really takes the stress out of paying for accommodation and allows me to concentrate on my studies and not have to work extra hours during a very intense course.’
And Sam has a strong message for other footballers who may be contemplating a potential second career: ‘I think there are a lot of opportunities out there for players who open their minds and focus on what interests them beyond football. I would encourage people to pursue any ideas they may have that could support them in the future as an alternative to professional football.’
Applications for Student Living Expense Grants will be open until October 31. Student Living Expense Grant – The Players Foundation
