Preparing players for life after football is a priority for Danish player association Spillerforeningen. At the heart of their programme is Rasmus Haagensen, who set up a dedicated player development unit over 10 years ago.

FIFPRO spoke with Chris Higgins who, alongside his playing career, is also working at PFA Scotland as player development manager.

Over 100 player development managers – 27 from FIFPRO – attended the three-day event on 21-23 June 2022, which focused on planning for the future of player development and wellbeing.

FIFPRO spoke to the Scottish player union about encouraging players to learn a new skill for life beyond football.

Former Scotland international Craig Beattie is a Player Relations Officer at PFA Scotland. The ex-Celtic and Hearts striker recounts his journey from the pitch to the union, and recalls the moment that inspired him to join a union.

As well as his success as a player, Paz has managed to obtain two university degrees: electrical engineering and public accountancy. He is doing a third university course – a master’s degree in sports administration.

After a 15-year career, former Premier League striker Rob Hulse became a physiotherapist in the U.K.’s public health service. This followed a physiotherapy degree at the University of Salford and assistance from England’s Professional Footballers Association (PFA).

Dino Kresinger recently retired from a professional career which saw him play at clubs such as NK Medimurje, Cibalia, and Western Sydney Wanderers. He undertook part-time studies in Sports Management and is currently the head coach of NK Varazdin U-17 team.

FIFPRO is launching a manual to help prepare footballers for life beyond sport.

Gareth Farrelly has progressed from playing in the Premier League to becoming a member of its prestigious judicial panel. Farrelly, who left school at aged 16, admits he had never sent an email as a player in the top English league for Everton and Bolton. He played against some big names in football including Frank Lampard and Rio Ferdinand (see picture).