Rich Wilkinson from Whitchurch is an ex-footballer who has taking part in a documentary called "Sidelined". Pictured here at local Whitchurch Alport FC ground
It was the summer just after his GCSEs when Rich was sent a letter to his family home to inform him that he’d been deselected and would not progress to become a first-team player.This life-changing news hit hard; Rich had always wanted to become a professional player and dedicated all of his time and effort to Stoke City Football Club.“They didn’t explain why, they just said that I wouldn’t be needed for the next season and all the best for your future.
“Through the course and personal therapy, I could go back to the trauma and process it safely through counselling.” Commenting on the documentary, Rich added: “It was an excellent opportunity to be part of something more visual than an article or research, giving me the chance to speak about my experience and study. Also, to raise awareness of academy players and families who are a big part of the academy.
“So when you lose that, it’s very difficult to cope with the new reality and to adapt to the real world with the identity that has been created.