Former footballer Toby Egan on his new life: why he recommends learning a construction profession.

A New Path for Toby Egan

According to The Sun: Former footballer Toby Egan, who once dreamed of a career with the England national team, now claims he is happier as a bricklayer than ever in goal.

Toby started his journey at Ipswich Town at the age of 12. However, after seven years of fighting for a spot on the team, he was released at 19, which was a real shock for him.

At 24, Toby faces difficulties finding work, feeling 'unable' until he enrolled in training.

Now he has his own bricklaying business and feels he is in control of his future. Toby believes that 'Build A Better Britain' campaign from The Sun on Sunday is a great initiative.

We initiated this campaign to highlight the need for more British workers who can gain a profession instead of hiring migrants to do this work.

Toby noted: “I would urge other young people who once dreamt of becoming footballers to do what I did.'

“There are thousands of footballers across the country who are released at a similar age and who have no clear prospects, so I would definitely recommend the training route.'

Feelings of Loss and New Opportunities

“I felt lost after I was released in 2020.'

Toby recalls how he was invited to travel with the first team, trained daily with professional players, and then told that his contract would not be renewed.

“The club said: 'We are not offering you a contract, we do not consider you good enough'. It was brutal. I felt lost.”

He received a Level 3 BTEC certificate in sports, but this did not provide him with job opportunities. Toby tried to find any job but faced rejections due to a lack of experience.

Toby received a recommendation for training as a bricklayer at the National Construction Training Center in Cambridge, which he successfully completed with distinction in 15 months.

“Everyone in my course was great. I gained many skills and confidence, continuing my development and getting back on construction sites.”

Great Opportunities

Toby is happy that one day he will pass on his knowledge to his three-year-old son Brooklyn.

“When I was wandering between earnings, I realized I wanted to learn skills that I could pass on to him, and that he would be proud of me.”

Daryl Stewart, a former bricklaying apprentice and now NHBC commercial manager, praised the campaign:

“It is wonderful to see the The Sun on Sunday initiative breaking old stereotypes about apprenticeships and showing how much it can offer.”

• There are vacancies in all areas of construction. To apply, visit www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship.

The new stage in Toby Egan's life shows that even after a failed sports career, there are opportunities for growth. His transition into bricklaying has become not only a new beginning but also an example for others who have faced similar difficulties. The 'Build A Better Britain' program aims to emphasize the importance of training and preparing youth for a successful professional future, opening doors to new opportunities in the construction industry.