[Football] Trent Alexander Arnold's After Academy to support released young players

[Ⓩ-Ⓐ-Ⓜ-Ⓞ-Ⓡ-Ⓐ]

Great work here, big respect. These teenagers can have their whole lives shattered when they get released from academies, much more support is needed.

Video here:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/65399672

 

[Normal Rob]

Have to say that, having previously had little time for TAA, this has changed my view completely. Personally funding the project for 5 years is a fantastic thing to do.

 

[Eeyore]

I remember seeing a piece about a boy who was at the Crystal Palace academy. He was about 13. He was absolutely driven and his parents were just the same. My immediate thought was how he would cope if he was released. Essentially these kids are operating in a world that only adults have to embrace. Competitive, dog eat dog. I'm really pleased that TAA has seen this. He always came across as a gracious and balanced lad.

 

[Binney on acid]

Offers hope to some incredibly vulnerable young people. Shame it's taken so long for a star player to come up with such a fantastic initiative.

 

[Farehamseagull]

Have to say that, having previously had little time for TAA, this has changed my view completely. Personally funding the project for 5 years is a fantastic thing to do.

What led you to have little time for TAA in the first place?

He might not be the best defender but he’s always come across as a decent lad.

 

[Weststander]

What led you to have little time for TAA in the first place?

He might not be the best defender but he’s always come across as a decent lad.

With incredible assists stats, a brilliant passer and he’s won the lot.

A long interview on BBC Breakfast this morning, they featured young men whose dreams had been shattered, this is a wonderful new resource for these folk.

 

[Pevenseagull]

Bravo

This should do some good.

 

[BNthree]

There’s a great book/video called No Hunger In Paradise about football academies and the young players.

 

[Normal Rob]

What led you to have little time for TAA in the first place?

He might not be the best defender but he’s always come across as a decent lad.

Yes, fair point. It comes across in print harsher than intended. I'm just not that familiar with him outside of 'on the pitch'

 

[Weststander]

From 1:06, interesting discussion on the life-changing setback in being rejected from the sport.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m001lbl8

 

[dejavuatbtn]

Many years ago I used to give digs to apprentices and triallists at the Albion. Apprentices did college once a week but treated it as a day off. For many it was their only chance in life as they either lost or had no other focus at school. For the vast majority it all ended in disappointment and an uncertain future. Good on TAA for his initiative.