The Dream of Being a Professional Soccer Player

Insights on Career Development Options of Young Irish Players

Bibliographic Data

ID2348802
AuthorsAnn Bourke (University College Dublin, corresponding author)
Year2003
Volume27
Issue4
Pages399-419
Publication date2003-11-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Sport and Social Issues (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0193-7235 • E-ISSN: 1552-7638
PublisherSAGE Publications Inc (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1177/0193732503255478
OpenAlexW2067849570
LanguageEN
Citations received31
References cited17

Because of the improved fortunes in international competition of the Republic of Ireland soccer team and increased media interest in the game, many youngsters embark on their dream to be a full-time professional player. Soccer in Ireland is mostly played on a part-time basis, with few openings for full-time professionals. English clubs are now recruiting youngsters at an early age through their football academies, and competition for playing positions is intense. This article outlines the implications for youngsters in Ireland of recent market developments in England and draws on theory and evidence to shed light on the nature of career planning undertaken by aspiring professional players. Details are also provided on the social networks that best facilitate a youth's career development given her decision to “go international” (to England)

Career development · Competition (biology · Dream · Football · Irish · League · Media studies · Pedagogy · Political science · Professional sport · Public relations · Sociology · Sociology of sport · Gender Studies · Law · Motivation and Self-Concept in Sports · Physical Education and Pedagogy · Psychology · Sport and Mega-Event Impacts · Sport Psychology and Performance · Sports Performance and Training · Sports, Gender, and Society