Gareth Southgate is a renowned figure in the world of football, initially as a player but perhaps especially as a manager. Internationally he represented England, earning 57 caps between 1995 and 2004. However, a distinguishing moment for Southgate came in the form of a missed penalty in the Euro 1996 semi-final shoot-out against Germany. A moment that scarred him mentally for a long time. But it’s how he dealt with this, how he used his own experience to improve that of others that is perhaps the most inspiring part of his story.
Growing up, Southgate’s football journey wasn’t without rejection. He was good, an exceptionally talented player who was picked up by various youth teams, but his smaller size meant he was dropped. He had a choice to make then. Either give up on his dream to be a footballer or keep going and play somewhere else. His determination meant he picked the latter and was invited to play for the Crystal Palace youth team.
Missing the penalty in 1996, Southgate found himself hiding from press and facing angry England fans with relentless mocking chants. It’s hard to imagine how this must have felt. For Gareth it meant he was then constantly worried about making a mistake, consequently effecting his performance.
Importantly, as he transitioned into management Southgate took his experience and was determined to shift the way the players thought about the game to be more positive. He nurtured the talent and is well known for his progressive approach to coaching.
In 2016 he was appointed the manager of the England men’s senior team and under his leadership the team went on to reach two European Championship finals, as well as the quarter and semi-final stages of the World Cup - making him one of the most successful England football managers of all time. Despite losses in the final stages, Southgate recognised achievement and always told his players to hold their heads up high. He knew how they would be feeling, and used his experience to build them up, not knock them down.
Southgate teaches us the importance of resilience. To stand up in the tough moments and importantly to come back stronger.
Zero to Hero
