Aaron Collins, a footballer for Bolton, has had an inspiring journey from working at McDonald’s to playing in the League One play-off Final at Wembley. When he was starting out at Newport, he didn’t initially receive a professional contract at 16 and had to work at McDonald’s to supplement his income. Juggling training, playing, and working at McDonald’s was not easy, but his determination paid off when he was finally offered professional terms by Newport boss Justin Edinburgh. Collins reflects on those days jokingly mentioning that he needed to pay for petrol for his moped to get to training.
Despite his humble beginnings, Collins continued to pursue his dream of becoming a professional footballer. He went on to play for various clubs like Maidstone and Morecambe before finding success at Bristol Rovers where he played a significant role in their promotion to League One. Collins scored two goals in a crucial match against Scunthorpe, helping Rovers secure automatic promotion by beating Northampton on goals scored. He describes the experience as unforgettable, emphasizing the team’s determination and the incredible vibe in the camp during the match.
Collins’ career took a positive turn when he signed with Bolton, becoming their biggest signing since 2013. His performance on the field has been exceptional, with nine goals in his last 14 games for the team. Collins joined Bolton intending to contribute and perhaps not start every game, but he grabbed the opportunity and has since excelled. He hopes to continue proving himself and aims for a chance to play in the Championship, expressing his desire to play at a high level and grow with the football club.
As Bolton prepares for the League One play-off Final against Oxford at Wembley, Collins is ready to give his best and help his team secure a victory. The promotion to the Championship would be another milestone in his career, and he is optimistic about the outcome. With his hard work, dedication, and the support of his team, Collins is confident that they can achieve success in the Final. His journey from working at McDonald’s to playing in a crucial match at Wembley symbolizes his perseverance, determination, and passion for the sport.
Collins’ story serves as an inspiration to many aspiring footballers who face challenges and setbacks in their careers. His humble beginnings and the hard work he put in to reach this point highlight the importance of perseverance and never giving up on one’s dreams. As he looks forward to the Championship, Collins remains focused on making the most of the opportunities he has been given and continuing to grow as a player. The League One play-off Final at Wembley represents a significant moment in his career, and he is determined to seize it with all the effort and dedication he can muster.
