The League Football Education (LFE) has commissioned the Russell Martin Foundation to deliver a new programme of talks to professional clubs across the country, giving young players an honest look at the realities of a football career.

These sessions are led by Charlie Oatway, former Premier League and Championship player, whose journey in football includes both breakthrough moments and significant personal challenges. During his time at Cardiff City, Charlie served a prison sentence, an experience he now speaks about openly to help young players understand the pressures, pitfalls and decisions that can shape their futures.

Working with 16–18-year-old scholars, Charlie’s story resonates because it’s real. He has lived the highs of competing at the top level, and he has faced the consequences when things went wrong. His sessions blend honesty with practical guidance, offering:

• A grounded look at life as a professional footballer
• The mental and emotional pressures young players commonly face
• Positive coping strategies and support pathways
• Advice on balancing ambition with wellbeing and personal responsibility

RMF is proud to be supporting LFE by helping the next generation of footballers develop resilience, self-awareness and confidence both on and off the pitch.

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