The High Performance Podcast Ollie Watkins: From Non-League to the Champions League, how I climbed football's most competitive ladder (E265)
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Jun 10, 2024 
Ollie Watkins, a Premier League footballer for Aston Villa, shares his incredible journey from non-league football to the Champions League. He discusses the rejection he faced as a child, the pressure of his first goal for Aston Villa, and the importance of humility and consistency. Ollie emphasizes breaking down mental health stigmas in sports while highlighting key mentors who shaped his career. His story showcases resilience, the value of patience, and the significance of a supportive circle in achieving success.
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Early Rejection
- Ollie Watkins was rejected by Exeter City at age nine due to his inability to concentrate.
- This rejection fueled his determination to prove them wrong, a drive that has shaped his career.
Non-Traditional Path
- Watkins believes his non-traditional path to the top, avoiding elite academies, has shaped him positively.
- He emphasizes that this journey taught him the value of hard work and humility.
Western-super-Mare Experience
- At 19, Watkins played for Western-super-Mare, far from the Premier League.
- He jokes about his journey from non-league football to potentially playing in the Champions League, highlighting the importance of his diverse experience.