This study sought to explore life "off the pitch" at one English Championship Youth Academy. Using concepts from Elias` figurational sociology to explore data from 12 semi-structured interviews, traditional notions of hyper-masculinity that are well-known on the pitch tracked into off-field behaviours. Friendships, banter, mandatory education were all themes of prevalence identified through thematic analysis. Key findings highlight that players did not associate with occupational inevitability; the notion that success at academy level translates to a successful career, however, a highly stringent athletic identity resulted in education being viewed with disdain and friendships of convenience being prevalent to protect themselves from the ruthlessness of the industry.
© Copyright 2024 Soccer & Society. Taylor & Francis. All rights reserved.