Over 30 players have benefitted from attending bespoke barista courses across Scotland in recent months. The course is one of the more popular personal development opportunities provided by PFA Scotland and we spoke to former team-mates Michael Devlin and James Penrice about their experience.
Courses have so far taken place in Dundee, Brechin, Glasgow and Edinburgh, with more planned for the rest of the season. Course providers teach attendees over one day, allowing them to understand the process of coffee making from start to finish and how to develop their skills in making their own as well as what’s involved in starting in the industry.
PFA Scotland Chairman and Ayr United defender, Michael Devlin, highlighted why he jumped at the chance to get involved.
“I love the social aspect of coffee. I’ve got a machine of my own and I’ve always liked the thought of maybe having my own shop in the future after I retire.”
Devlin was one of a group of 10 who took part in a course focused on players based in the west coast and the defender illustrated the importance of having a focus on other ventures whilst still playing.
“These courses are great as you are joining other boys and girls, some you might know. It’s always a good environment and this course specifically was an eye-opener. I’ve got a much better understanding now and it’s a great glimpse into what a future idea of a business might be.”
“I’m a big advocate of having a focus away from football. We are all confronted with stepping away from football and the transition in doing so, its ultimately a short career. To have an eye on what you might do after is important, its good to dip your toes in to different things as we have put our everything into football from a young age. It’s a big decision to find out what’s next after football, so that’s why I always encourage as doing as many of these opportunities as possible.”
Hearts defender, James Penrice, was a Livingston team-mate of Michael’s and was similarly enthusiastic about the prospect of mastering the craft of coffee.
“I decided to join mainly due to my love of coffee. We’ve got a machine at the club but maybe I’m more focused on perfecting it at home first!”
The flying full-back is enjoying a standout season at Hearts and highlighted why he thinks it’s important for full-time players to find more opportunities off-the-pitch.
“It’s massive for players in Scotland. Most of us in the league probably won’t go into a career with a football background after they finish. It’s important to try new things, see what’s out there and I’m really enjoying it.”
Devlin, who spoke to PFA Scotland about other topical issues facing members at the moment, spoke about how personal development opportunities could ultimately help players both on and off the pitch.
“You need to find new things to do as a footballer. You can then fine-tune what it is you enjoy. It’s also a welcome distraction at times, whether that be – and I know through my own experiences – you’re fit and healthy and you’re playing, or you’re not playing and you’re struggling, which can lead to considering your purpose and values. I think keeping busy is key.”
The union is keen to support members through any opportunities of their choosing. Devlin highlights that PFAS staff can help identify new courses for players at any point of the season.
“I’ll always advise members, whether that’s in my changing room or elsewhere, to get in touch if they’re thinking of starting something new. Chris Higgins as Player Services Manager is always more than happy to find something to suit the needs of a member. We deliver regular courses throughout the year and raise awareness of those, but Chris is also excellent at finding opportunities for members whenever they ask.”
With more barista courses on the horizon, as well as new opportunities elsewhere, the coffee culture in football is not going anywhere anytime soon – get in touch with Chris Higgins to learn more.
