Rory McAuley spent time at the Academy speaking to the PDP (Professional Development Phase) players about his journey on and off the pitch.
Academy Head of Education Ben Seymour-Shove explained the purpose behind the visit and what the players learned from the experience.
"We were recently fortunate enough to have Rory McAuley come in and speak to all our PDP players to share his journey and experience, from playing in packed stadiums to facing significant personal challenges. Rory is someone that a number of our academy staff know well, and when the opportunity arose for him to come in and share his advice, experience, and knowledge, we felt it would be hugely beneficial for the players.
"Rory has experienced the highs of a successful professional football career, but he has also faced some incredible lows due to struggles with his mental health which to the world of drugs and dealing. He spoke about the importance of being accountable for your actions, surrounding yourself with positive influences, and prioritising mental well-being. Our players embraced Rory’s story, and there were several key messages they could apply to their own lives, especially as they embark on their football journeys.
McAuley had this to say about his time with our Professional Development Players. "It was great to have the opportunity to spend time with the extremely engaging Under-18 and Under-21 players at Peterborough United.
"It was a day where I shared not only my football knowledge but also my broader lived experience—from playing in stadiums to sitting in a cell. Embracing my story allows me to connect with people on different levels. Life offers us opportunities for growth, provided we are open to them. Thank you very much to the staff at the football club who were able to give me the opportunity to share my story with the players, I am sure they took something from it that they can apply to their careers."
Seymour-Shove continued: "As a football club a large part of our values is to expose players to important topics away from football that will help develop them as people, as well as players. This involves guest speakers and workshops as part of our Life Skills and Personal Development provision that will ensure they are developing key skills to support them in their careers. As well as this it is important that our players build a skill-set that they can take with them should they pursue a career away from the academy. We are grateful for Rory giving up his time and we look forward to seeing him again in the future."