Why it matters: The session provided rare access to a professional footballer's perspective on career development, mental health, and handling pressure – valuable insights for young people pursuing careers in sport.
The details: The learners from Suffolk New College are all on courses taught in partnership with the Ipswich Town Foundation, thanks to a deal signed between the two organisations in 2023. The partnership has created post-16 programmes to support those seeking careers in both football and sport in general.
During the talk, Young – who played 39 times for England and scored seven goals for his country – discussed his career, dealing with pressure, social media and the importance of looking after yourself.
What he shared: Young revealed that the highlight of his career so far was winning the Premier League and watching his son Tyler make his professional debut for Peterborough against Stevenage in 2024. He also told students that Messi was the best player he had played against, pasta was his pre-match meal, and the best derby he had played in so far was the Milan derby.
Looking ahead to the season with ITFC, Young said: "I've been welcomed with open arms and I'm looking forward to what is to come."
What the students said: Joshua Durrant, 17, from Holbrook, who is on a level three course with the college and the Foundation, said: "He was very articulate. Experiences like this get us ready for real life."
Ollie Head, 16, from Colchester, who is on a level two sports course, added: "He gave good advice – it was motivational."
What they're saying: Lee Mandley, director of service industries at Suffolk New College, said: "This partnership between Suffolk New College and Ipswich Town Foundation brought two pillars of the community together. Experiences like today are not the norm for students. It's been inspirational."
Robert Peace, head of education and employability at Ipswich Town Foundation, added: "Ashley gave insights into what it's like to be a professional footballer. The relationship between the college and the Foundation is hugely important."
The bottom line: A partnership between Suffolk New College and Ipswich Town Foundation is creating unique opportunities for sports students, providing them with real-world insights from professional athletes as they prepare for their careers.
