Like thousands of young people, 21 year-old Maddi Sweetman found it extremely hard to find employment during difficulties imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

She had dreams of working within the football industry, but struggled in the current job market as many were out of work following national lockdown. She believed the principle of “it’s who you know, not what you know” put her at a disadvantage. Her lack of success on the employment front was not due to Maddi’s lack of experience or abilities; she had achieved 8 GCSE’s A*-B, a host of voluntary experience as a coach & relevant qualifications in scouting, talent identification & mental health welfare. 

“I like to believe I have taken every opportunity to expand my CV and mind, so to not even get a response from some places was really hard on my mental health.”  Maddi explained. “My mental health has always been a struggle, from a young age I experienced trauma & issues that have shadowed me throughout my life. Finding a job is so much harder when you’re constantly battling with your mind & believing you’re not good enough.”

Despite going eight months without work during the pandemic, Maddi’s persistence paid off when a Kickstart position became available at her beloved AFC Wimbledon as an Assistant Community Coach. 

“To be able to have an opportunity – not only at the club I love – but just to get my foot in the door for a career in football is so fantastic. I’m so excited to get involved around the community. Helping is my passion, and to know everything I am doing is for a good cause and also representing my club – I just couldn’t have asked for anything better.” 

She was also full of praise for the assistance she received during her engagement with the Kickstart Scheme:

“I have been helped so much by Kickstart & I think it is so important to let others know about this opportunity.” 

Thrilled with the opportunity to represent The Dons, she added just how much she has missed Plough Lane:

“I am a dedicated home & away fan for Wimbledon, starting from childhood. I adore the club & have hated not being able to get to the games!”