www.pfascotland.co.uk


CASE STUDY: SHELDON JACOBS


“While at Livingston FC and playing with the under 19s I was offered a first team contract. This was a big decision to make in terms of accepting the contract as I had to do well enough to get another the following year,


plus I had already deferred a place at University. As I could not delay the University course any longer I decided to reject the contract and pursue my degree in Business Studies and HRM, while playing for the University team. Being able to study and play regular competitive football was a major factor in my decision.”


“When I first arrived at University I was not offered a scholarship as I was a player with the 2nd team and on the fringes of the first team. However as I have progressed into my second year at University I have become more involved with the first team and was offered a small scholarship to help me with my finances. Looking ahead I aim to become a full scholarship athlete competing for regular first team football.” “The information provided at PFA Scotland’s Careers Day was invaluable in the choices I made and I am thoroughly enjoying my experiences at University.”


CASE STUDY: ANDY AITKEN


“Making the decision to stop playing and focus on a career outside the game was not a difficult one as I was at the latter stages of my playing career and aware of the need to look for alternative long term employment.


Joining the Police Force has offered a great opportunity in this sense and I have relished the challenges of the new job. While it may be daunting to begin a new career in your early thirties, I felt well prepared as a result of some of the skills I had developed through my football career; my experiences as a club captain and as part of PFA Scotland’s Management Committee developed my people and social skills greatly.” “Furthermore the fitness aspect of my role as a Police Officer was something I was in a fortunate position with due to my conditioning levels as a professional player. I appreciate I was fortunate to enjoy a career in football, with the highlight undoubtedly being playing in the Scottish Cup Final for Queen of the South against Rangers. However, I am extremely content in the choice I made to pursue a career in the Police Force as it is a rewarding and achievable option for players as has been demonstrated by others such as former Aberdeen and Falkirk full back Jamie McQuilken and ex Scotland under 21 goalkeeper Euan McLean.”


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