Well, my story begins with my football career. I enjoyed playing since I can remember. Over time, I reached the stage where I had to choose my scholarship program. What nobody knew is that, besides football and school, I also hung around with the wrong crowd and picked up their habits. At a young age, I found myself playing football every day, unable to hang around with the crowd due to being occupied with football, training, gym, games, and school. In a top club environment with great staff and teammates, I felt undeserving, accepting it bit by bit while still indulging in old habits like smoking cigarettes. Despite creating a system where I pushed harder in training for each cigarette, guilt set in, leading to a dual identity as a dedicated footballer by day and a smoker by night.
Having someone spot me smoking and report it marked a turning point. The head of the academy began paying more attention, especially during the last game of the league where I was subbed off at halftime. During the halftime talk, he mentioned someone in the group doing the wrong things, and I knew my secret was out. Despite relief, stress lingered as I wondered how he, like a second father, would react. He addressed the issue, promising to handle it in pre-season, making me fear potential release.
Two challenging days followed as I questioned why I couldn't quit smoking. Pre-season started with early, intense training and a game against an adult team. In a conversation, the head of the academy confronted me about my smoking. Admitting it shocked him, but he acknowledged my talent, emphasizing it wasn't worth jeopardizing. Determined, I spent a smoke-free day and resisted cravings until meeting a teammate who introduced me to Snus. Since that day, three years ago, I haven't touched a cigarette. Remember you are not alone!
Funny fact, in my career I came across big and small names in football , I was very fortunate to have played with bigger name in the English football and Pablo was always their go to , changing rooms were filled to the point it became the club's issue.
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