Players at the Irish FA JD Academy have been learning about the realities of playing the game professionally.
The academy kicked off its programme of activities for 2026 with a workshop delivered by Michael Carvill of the Professional Footballers’ Association Northern Ireland.
Entitled ‘The Realities of Pro Football’, the workshop highlighted several challenges that young players will navigate throughout their careers.
As a former professional player with experience at Charlton Athletic, Wrexham, Linfield, Crusaders and Dungannon Swifts, Carvill used his personal journey to provide insights into the transition from youth development football to the professional game.
He highlighted several ‘real world’ aspects of the football industry that young players often overlook.
He also outlined challenges that young players face in the professional game. These included: professional representation: understanding the specific role and influence of agents; educational development: the importance of continuing education alongside football; financial literacy: managing earnings and understanding why financial health is essential; holistic wellbeing: recognising the mental and physical benefits of a balanced lifestyle.
Other topics were: social media management: navigating the digital landscape and avoiding common pitfalls; contractual awareness: the legal consequences of failing to fully understand player contracts; career transitions: preparing for the eventual shift from playing to post-playing roles.
Beyond technical advice, the session encouraged players to find their own voices and advocate for themselves.
The PFA NI chief also detailed the extensive benefits of PFA membership, which provides a safety net for players whether they are competing in Northern Ireland, England, Scotland or Wales.
"We are committed to supporting both the young player and the person. We provide the information, advice and support they will need to help maximise the opportunities that come with playing professional football," he explained.
Image: Michael Carvill of PFA NI at the workshop with players from the Irish FA JD Academy.
