Careers After Football: Damien Lynch

Damien Lynch is now back in his native Ireland after a playing career in England which took him from FA Youth Cup glory with Leeds to Nottingham Forest. He then moved back to Ireland to play for Bohemians, and currently plays for St Patricks but has also used the time back home to further his education with the help of the PFA. Givemefootball’s Lawrie Madden caught up with the Irishman in Dublin to find out about his new vocation – and his time in England.Q. How did you enjoy your time in England?A. I enjoyed it at Leeds. I was there for five years and we won the FA Youth cup in 1997 and the reserves Premier League the year after. I had a year at Forest and then moved back to Ireland and played for Bohemians and now I currently play for St Patricks.Q. Did you go back because of injury?A. I could have stayed in England after Forest but the League of Ireland was starting to take off and I was going back to one of the top sides. I had a solid offer and we were in the Champions League qualifiers. In the first season we won the league in Ireland as well. I loved England but it was a good time to go back.Q. Despite being out of England, the PFA has still been of help?A. everyone at the PFA have been fantastic. I don’t think education is emphasised enough. I think there should be more emphasis on education because although you play football you are giving up a lot. Other people are getting degrees or professional qualifications. Q. How exactly did the PFA help?A. In the last four years I have been on different courses to further my education. I started doing a basic computer course and then did a diploma in it. I also took my exams to become an Estate Agent and Auctioneer. I am currently trying to qualify as a financial advisor and also doing event management and PR. I have done all this with PFA funding.Q. What made you go down this route?A. Well, playing full time means it is difficult to get courses to fit around your schedule. I did a broad course which had nine subjects which gave me a wide understanding of many areas.Q. Would you have gone on these courses anyway?A. I probably would but the financial help was great. I am married, have a house and a mortgage so any assistance helps. You know that whatever course you go for there will be some help. I wouldn’t have been as educated as I am now without the help of the PFA.Q. Would you recommend the PFA?A. Absolutely. I cannot emphasise how important education is. You may have a football background and it sounds good but unless you have something else you are limited, especially in the downturn.PLEASE NOTE: When searching for pic you need to type in Damian Lynch (not Damien with an ‘e’. Error on PA Photos.