A young footballer from south London, Collin Skhoyimue, shares his challenging journey after being told he would never play the sport he loves again. At just 14 years old, Collin was signed to a League One club’s academy but suffered a debilitating knee injury during a match, leading to his release. Despite his dreams being crushed, Collin persevered and turned to coaching and mentoring young players. His story sheds light on the harsh realities of professional football, where players can be seen as mere assets rather than individuals with dreams and aspirations.
Growing up, Collin’s passion for football was evident from a young age. Starting at five years old, he created makeshift goals using his mom’s shoes and played solo matches in the house. His dedication and hard work paid off when he was selected for the League One academy, surprising his supportive mother Sylvia with the news. However, his joy was short-lived as a knee injury derailed his promising career, leading to a series of surgeries and setbacks that ultimately ended his playing days.
Despite facing adversity and being told he would never play again, Collin found solace in coaching and mentoring young players. He started a coaching business and began managing an under-7s team, aiming to provide the support and guidance he lacked during his difficult journey. Through his experiences, Collin hopes to inspire others, sharing his story on social media and hosting a series called Injured 2 Pro. His resilience and determination serve as a powerful reminder that setbacks can lead to new opportunities and personal growth
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