Friday, 9 October 2025
Every now and then, a great story lands.
Helping former professional footballer John McCombe share his journey has been one of those ‘boom boom’ moments.
From the roar of the crowd to building a new life after loss, John’s story is powerful because it’s honest.
He’s open about the highs of his football career, the heartbreak of losing his mum and, for a time, the game that defined him.
But what stands out most is his resilience, and how he’s channelled everything he’s learned to help others build lives they love.
The feature has been picked up by local and regional media, and I couldn’t be happier for him. It’s well deserved.
I’m grateful John trusted me to tell his story, and I hope it inspires anyone who’s facing change or challenge.
I’m also thankful to Paul Swift, of Paul Swift Photography, my former West Yorkshire police colleague, for helping with the photos. They really capture John’s journey, enabling me to stay on my side of the pitch with words.
Because, as John proved, sometimes the greatest victories happen off the field.