OUR
MENTORS
MENTORS
BRIAN MCDERMOTT
Brian McDermott’s journey through professional football spans four decades, encompassing roles as a player, manager, and scout. His illustrious career took him from the pitches of Arsenal, Oxford United, and Cardiff City to the managerial helm of Leeds United and Reading, where he etched his name in football history.
Amidst the triumphs on the field, Brian’s life journey has been marked by profound challenges. Despite his successes, he battled with crippling self-doubt and struggled with mental health issues, grappling with the weight of expectations and the burden of ‘imposter syndrome.’ His inner demons led him down a path of alcohol dependency, a journey fraught with darkness and despair. Yet, it was in confronting his struggles head-on that Brian found his true strength. In 2018, he made the courageous decision to confront his addiction, embarking on a journey of recovery and self-discovery.
Today, he stands as a beacon of hope, using his own experiences to inspire others to seek help and embrace vulnerability. Brian’s willingness to share his journey, to confront stigma, and to uplift those around him embodies the ethos of Behind The White Lines. He stands as a key mentor, offering guidance, support, and unwavering encouragement to all who walk the path of recovery and resilience.
In his powerful story lies the transformative power of vulnerability, the resilience of the human spirit, and the boundless potential for growth and healing. Brian brings not only his wealth of footballing expertise but also a deep commitment to fostering community and camaraderie. His impassioned advocacy for mental health awareness and his dedication to supporting others make him a natural ambassador.
STEVEN REID
Steven Reid’s journey through the world of professional football is a testament to resilience, perseverance, and unwavering determination. Beginning his career at Millwall, he made his mark early on, playing a pivotal role in the team’s promotion to the English First Division.
However, Steven’s path was not without its challenges. Despite facing numerous setbacks due to unfortunate injuries, he continued to rise above adversity, showcasing his talent and tenacity during his tenure at Blackburn Rovers, Queens Park Rangers, and West Bromwich Albion.
His contributions extended beyond the club level, as Steven represented the Republic of Ireland on the international stage, earning 23 caps and leading his team as Captain in notable fixtures such as the 2002 World Cup.
Following his retirement from playing, Steven transitioned seamlessly into coaching and broadcasting roles, demonstrating his multifaceted expertise and deep-rooted passion for the game. From coaching positions at Reading, Crystal Palace, AFC Wimbledon, and West Bromwich Albion to joining Steve Clarke’s backroom staff with the Scottish national team, his impact resonated across various levels of football.
Yet, it was Steven’s profound understanding of mental health and well-being that ultimately led him to chart a new course. Recognizing the importance of mental resilience in professional sport, he made the decision to leverage his own experiences to support and mentor young players in improving their mental well-being, confidence, and leadership skills.
As an ambassador for mental health in professional sport and a key mentor for Behind The White Lines, Steven brings a wealth of experience, empathy, and insight to empower others on their journey to success both on and off the pitch. His dedication to nurturing the holistic development of athletes exemplifies the values and mission of Behind The White Lines, making him an invaluable asset to the organization and the broader football community.
WHY IT’S IMPORTENT TO US
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