Lee Crinnion – From Quitting Football at 14 to Being Scouted at 20 

At the age of 14, Lee Crinnion walked away from football. With no academy experience and no offers on the table, he didn’t think there was a future for him in the game. Six years later, after giving himself one more shot, the 20-year-old striker is now heading into pre-season training with a professional club — all after being scouted at a UK Football Trials event. 

Lee’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams — and that raw hunger and persistence often count for just as much as natural talent. 

“I’d only ever played local football and had never been picked up by any academy,” Lee explained. “At 14, I stopped playing because I genuinely didn’t think I’d ever make it. But something inside told me to go back and try again. I realised you only get a short window in your life to play football. I didn’t want to look back and wonder, ‘What if?’ So I gave it one last shot.” 

That decision turned out to be a turning point. Lee started training harder, playing regularly again, and eventually signed for Daisy Hill FC, a well-established non-league club in Greater Manchester. But he knew that to progress further, he needed to get seen by scouts from higher-level teams — so he registered for a UK Football Trials event. 

“Being 20, it’s really hard to find a club. Most clubs are focused on younger players. That’s why UK Football Trials stood out — it gives players like me the chance to be seen and judged on performance, not background.” 

Lee arrived with something to prove — not just to others, but to himself. With over 20 scouts watching, the pressure was high, but so was the opportunity. His hard work paid off. After standing out during the trial, he was scouted and invited to join a club for pre-season training. 

“When I found out I’d been scouted, I didn’t think, ‘I’ve made it.’ I thought, ‘Now the hard work really starts.’ This was just another step in the right direction. I’ve now got a chance to prove myself and show what I can do when I’m given an opportunity.” 

Lee’s performances during the trial were marked by his work rate, attitude, and adaptability — three qualities that shone through, even in unfamiliar surroundings. 

“One thing I’ve learned is that talent alone isn’t enough. You’ve got to work hard, adapt to the situation, and stay ready. Turning up and playing at 100% — even when you don’t know the coaches or other players — that’s what makes the difference.” 

Reflecting on the experience, Lee credits UK Football Trials with giving him a realistic and valuable opportunity that he would recommend to any player serious about their football future. 

“I’d definitely recommend UK Football Trials to other players, especially those with realistic expectations. It’s not a magic door into pro football, but if you’re prepared to work hard, there are genuine scouts watching. Your ceiling is as high as you’re willing to push for — aim for the stars and grind every day.” 

Lee is now preparing for pre-season training with the club that scouted him, with a clear focus on making the most of this chance. 

“I don’t know exactly where this will lead, but I know one thing: I’m going to give it everything. That’s all you can do.” 

We’re excited to follow Lee’s journey in the coming months — and proud to have played a part in giving him the platform to be seen.