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In this episode, host Richard Graves sits down with former professional footballer Sam Winnall, who shares his honest reflections on a 15-year career across clubs including Wolves, Barnsley, Sheffield Wednesday, Derby County, Oxford United, and Burton Albion.
Sam opens up about the realities of life as a professional athlete, the highs of Wembley wins and Golden Boots, the lows of injury setbacks and contract uncertainty, and the immense physical and mental demands that most people never see.
More than just a career retrospective, this episode offers valuable insights into the mindset, resilience, and adaptability required not only to succeed in elite sport, but to transition into life after it.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
The hidden pressures of professional sport—why talent alone isn’t enough.
How dealing with setbacks, rejection, and injury shaped Sam’s career and character.
What a typical day really looks like for a professional footballer, from training to nutrition to recovery.
The crucial role of mental health and mindset in athletic performance and longevity.
Why transition planning and identity beyond sport are essential for athletes facing retirement.
The surprising ways Sam now channels his competitive edge into golf, padel, and personal growth.
Whether you’re a sports scientist, coach, practitioner, or athlete, this episode is for anyone interested in the human side of elite performance and what it truly takes to stay at the top, and how to support athletes through the challenges that come with it.
About Sam Winnall
FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL
SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241
Learn Quicker & More Effectively
4.7
3232 ratings
In this episode, host Richard Graves sits down with former professional footballer Sam Winnall, who shares his honest reflections on a 15-year career across clubs including Wolves, Barnsley, Sheffield Wednesday, Derby County, Oxford United, and Burton Albion.
Sam opens up about the realities of life as a professional athlete, the highs of Wembley wins and Golden Boots, the lows of injury setbacks and contract uncertainty, and the immense physical and mental demands that most people never see.
More than just a career retrospective, this episode offers valuable insights into the mindset, resilience, and adaptability required not only to succeed in elite sport, but to transition into life after it.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
The hidden pressures of professional sport—why talent alone isn’t enough.
How dealing with setbacks, rejection, and injury shaped Sam’s career and character.
What a typical day really looks like for a professional footballer, from training to nutrition to recovery.
The crucial role of mental health and mindset in athletic performance and longevity.
Why transition planning and identity beyond sport are essential for athletes facing retirement.
The surprising ways Sam now channels his competitive edge into golf, padel, and personal growth.
Whether you’re a sports scientist, coach, practitioner, or athlete, this episode is for anyone interested in the human side of elite performance and what it truly takes to stay at the top, and how to support athletes through the challenges that come with it.
About Sam Winnall
FREE 7d SCIENCE FOR SPORT ACADEMY TRIAL
SIGN UP NOW: https://bit.ly/SFSepisode241
Learn Quicker & More Effectively
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