Danny Mills spoke to a group of Year 11 students at Oasis Academy Shirley Park in Croydon about his career so far and the realities of life as a footballer.

Mills recalled his footballing journey, of coming through the youth system at Croydon FC and moving to Conference side Crawley Town - before signing his first professional contract with Peterborough United. It was a chance to speak to the students about the highs and lows of football and the importance of focusing on yourself, free from distractions.

Since joining Dulwich Hamlet this summer, Danny Mills has also been taking his coaching qualifications and is assistant manager of the club’s Under 18 side alongside Junior James. He is a firm believer in continuing his personal development throughout his career and he has recently passed his UEFA B licence and is now aiming to progress onto the A Licence.

There was also an opportunity for students to ask their own questions to Danny. These included:

• How did you find juggling education and football?
• Did you have an agent at the age of 15/16?
• What did it feel like to make your debut in the Championship at 18?
• How do you handle the pressure of playing football?

Speaking after the talk, Mills said, “My aim is to inspire and motivate young people aspiring to become professional footballers through my experiences and journey and show them the reality of how their journey could be. I also believe in the importance of education alongside football and having a plan B.”

Danny Mills is available to speak at schools and non-league/professional academies in London or the surrounding areas. For any enquiries, please contact dpmi11s91@gmail.com.