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Last week, the Sports Society hosted the three founders and directors of Rising Ballers. Eni Shabani, Brendon Shabani (current footballer for Leyton Orient), and Jamie Pollitt gave boys an insight into the youth football scene, as well as their views on some current issues in the wider footballing world.

Brendon and Eni explained how the idea and dream for Rising Ballers developed and how they set about making it a reality: creating a platform and page across social media channels which hopes to give academy players and young, talented footballers (especially in the London area) the opportunity to be scouted and make it in ‘the beautiful game’.

They now have a permanent men’s and women’s team, from which seven players have won professional contracts, including two to Premier League team Sheffield United. The boys were also given an idea of the challenges that many young aspiring footballers face in the modern game, including distractions from training and maintaining a balance between football and education. It was a fascinating discussion, and it was clear that Rising Ballers are helping to ensure the growing confidence and supply of quality young players throughout the footballing system.