Case studies
Ethan’s Journey – From Professional Footballer to Career Mentor
Background
Ethan(23) was a professional footballer, playing for Southampton FC, Reading FC, Havant and Waterlooville (Loan), and Aldershot Town FC. His career was on track until a devastating fifth knee injury forced him into early retirement, leaving him uncertain about his future beyond football.
The Challenge
Like many athletes facing unexpected retirement, Ethan struggled with the transition. Football had been his entire life, and without a clear next step, he found it difficult to see how his skills could translate into a new career.
How Equilibrium Careers Helped
The Equilibrium Careers team immediately recognised Ethan’s potential and helped him:
- Identify his transferable skills, including leadership, teamwork, resilience, and discipline.
- Gain additional education and training to prepare for new career opportunities.
- Build confidence in his ability to succeed in a new professional environment.
The Outcome
With the right support, Ethan successfully transitioned into a new role and now works as part of the Equilibrium Careers team. His experience allows him to help other athletes navigate their own career transitions.
“I was unsure of what life after football would look like, but Equilibrium Careers gave me the confidence and support I needed. Now, I’m proud to help others through the same transition, ensuring they feel understood and supported—just like I was.”
Ethan’s story is a testament to how the right guidance and opportunities can help athletes build a fulfilling second career.
Ben Close – Expanding Horizons Beyond Football Background
Ben Close(28) built an impressive football career, making 300 professional appearances over 10 years while playing for Portsmouth FC, Doncaster FC, and Eastleigh FC. Having spent a decade in professional football, he knew that at some point, he would need to start thinking about his future beyond the game.
The Challenge
Like many long-term professionals, Ben wanted to explore new opportunities outside of football but wasn’t sure where to start. With so many potential career paths available, he needed guidance, connections, and a clear plan to help him transition smoothly.
How Equilibrium Careers Helped
The Equilibrium Careers team worked with Ben to:
- Explore career options beyond football, ensuring a smooth transition.
- Connect him with experienced professionals in industries that matched his interests.
- Provide ongoing support as he navigated new career opportunities.
The Outcome
Since working with Equilibrium Careers, Ben has expanded his career ambitions. He is now exploring opportunities in property investment, considering further education with a degree, and working towards his coaching badges.
“Speaking with Equilibrium Careers gave me a fresh perspective on life beyond football. They connected me with the right people and helped make my transition much easier. Now, I’m excited about the future, whether in property, education, or coaching.”
Ben’s journey demonstrates that footballers can build diverse and rewarding careers beyond the sport, with the right guidance and opportunities.
Liam – Finding Success Beyond Football
Background
Liam Kelly(23) was a talented footballer, playing for Portsmouth FC, Farleigh Dickinson University, and College of Idaho. With years of dedication to the sport, he aimed to make it as a professional footballer. However, after his last contract was terminated, Liam had to face the difficult reality that his football career had come to an end.
The Challenge
Like many aspiring professionals, Liam had spent his life focused on football. Without a contract, he found himself at a crossroads, unsure of what direction to take or how to translate his skills into a new career.
How Equilibrium Careers Helped
The Equilibrium Careers team stepped in to help Liam:
- Identify his transferable skills, including discipline, leadership, and resilience.
- Understand his value in the professional world beyond football.
- Gain confidence in his ability to succeed in a new industry.
The Outcome
With Equilibrium Careers’ support, Liam successfully transitioned into a new career. He has worked in fintech recruitment and has recently progressed into the rec2rec sector.
“Equilibrium Careers helped me realise the skills I had developed through football and taught me how to harness them to reach my full potential. Since their support, I have become more successful than I would’ve been had I continued pursuing a football career.”
Liam’s journey highlights how the right guidance and mindset can open new doors, allowing athletes to thrive in careers beyond sport.