Friday, 5th of February 2010
Footballer With Dignity
ACCORDING to today’s national newspapers, it’s D-day for John Terry, who faces a make-or-break meeting with Fabio Capello to determine his future as England captain.
It’s the latest twist in a story that looks set to run and run.
The whole Terry saga has tarnished the image of the game and if rumours on the football grapevine are to be believed, there could be more lurid tales to come this weekend, involving more high profiles names.
Yesterday, however, a delegation from Viva saw a completely different side of football.
We were at Yeovil Town to handle the PR as midfielder Darren Way announced he was retiring from the game. (See Sky's coverage).
After a brave 13-month battle, 30-year-old Darren finally faced up to the painful truth he’s no longer physically capable of doing the one thing he loves best.
Enforced retirements are not uncommon in football, but Darren’s case is particularly sad because his career was cut-short as a result of a serious road traffic accident, of which he was the innocent victim.
With a civil court action pending, yesterday’s announcement had to be handled with great care. There were certain things Darren could not discuss from a legal perspective because it may have affected any future court action.
Our role on the day was to help steer Darren through the legal minefield, whilst also ensuring he maximised the opportunities to promote his forthcoming testimonial.
It was clearly an emotional day for Darren but, at the same time, it was also heartening to see a young man face up to his worst nightmare with such courage and dignity.
