Nathan, 21, had been struggling with his mental health. Between caring for his Nan through a serious illness and carrying the impact of difficult experiences from his younger years, the emotional toll had been building.
A lifelong Bluebirds fan, Nathan discovered the Cardiff City FC's official charity at a pivotal time in his life. Their post-school education became a safe space where he felt heard, supported and able to escape reality, using the power of football.
Since leaving high school, Nathan has attempted several courses and administrative roles, ranging from teaching assistant positions to school secretary roles. Despite not being able to speak until the age of six, Nathan has persevered - seeking a community with a hands-on support system to help him manage his needs.
As a loyal season ticket holder, football has always been a stress reliever for Nathan and a way to escape the pressures of home life. Discovering the NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Sport & Physical Activity at Cardiff City FC Community Foundation was a game-changer. It offered Nathan a fresh start, helping him build positive relationships and a renewed sense of confidence, all while managing the ongoing demands of caring for his grandmother.
The introduction to Futsal has also transformed Nathan's outlook on education and his future in football coaching. Since joining the course, he's become an assistant for the BTEC Level 2 cohort, always on hand for simple tasks like collecting cones or setting out bibs but also inspiring the team during moments when encouragement is needed.
Managing a heart condition, Nathan has found physical activity and sport essential for his well-being. Observing futsal training sessions with qualified coaches further inspired him to learn from their delivery style, constantly seeking ways to improve his game, reflecting his grit and resilience.
Due to his willingness to learn and passion for coaching, Nathan is now approaching the chance to coach at Cardiff City Soccer Schools, a holiday camp delivered by Cardiff City FC Community Foundation.
Nathan has also shown eagerness to participate in extracurricular activities whenever possible, including volunteering with the charity’s safeguarding team. Over the last year. He's contributed to the football club’s Anti-Bullying Week campaign and is an active member of the newly established Student Wellbeing and Focus Group.
His dedication was recognized with VIP hospitality box access and a meet-and-greet with Cian Ashford, also giving him a chance to meet founders of Mentality Clothing - an experience that inspired him to share his story.
The course has also provided a supportive friendship network of like-minded individuals and fellow City fans. Having a larger social circle has created meaningful opportunities to socialize more outside of college hours, which has actively contributed to his increased sense of security and self-worth.
Most of all, Nathan has found a safe space to voice his emotions, helping him stay on track with his learning. He’s now comfortable leaning on staff and support systems when needed - something that wasn’t available to him before. Nathan has now found his feet in an environment that supports not only his academic goals but his emotional well-being too.
Thanks to his new and broadened insight on the future, deep compassion for others, combined with the kindled sense of purpose and care provided by the Community Foundation team, Nathan is keen to explore coaching in less fortunate countries for those in need.
To reach his goals, he aspires to enroll in the Foundation Degree in Community Coaching, where Nathan can continue to gain invaluable skills from the supportive environment the charity has created, to help him thrive.
From starting the course burdened by stress, feeling isolated and alone, Nathan is now hopeful about life and has people he can rely on. He has been equipped with all the tools to reach his full potential, through education, physical activity, friendship, and guidance, which have laid the stepping stones to a happy, bright, and promising future.
Nicola Barry, Designated Safeguarding Officer at Cardiff City FC Community Foundation said:
“Nathan has been a pleasure to work with; he completely throws himself in to everything offered to him – outside of the normal expectations of his course.
He is passionate about making change for himself and his fellow students, and being part the student wellbeing focus group gives him the opportunity to share his ideas and add to the voice of all students.
I wish Nathan all the success as he progresses through his course.”
Nathan reflected:
“For anyone looking to study at the Community Foundation, I’d say take every opportunity you can. Learn new skills, expand your network, build confidence, and explore new paths. Seizing opportunities - even the small ones - really helps you step outside your comfort zone.”
Nathan's journey is being shared as part of Scan to Smile, a new EFL initiative designed to lift spirits during the January blues and shine a spotlight on the life-changing work delivered by football club charities.
Posters displayed around EFL stadiums from 23 – 31 January will invite supporters to scan QR codes, alongside codes on-screen during all live EFL games broadcast on Sky Sports. Fans can scan these to unlock uplifting stories like Nathan's, showing how football changes lives far beyond the pitch.
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