DURING this current break in football, Brewers midfielder Ryan Edwards has spoken about how his psychology studies have kept him proactive and mentally fit during the lockdown period.
With Burton Albion and the rest of the EFL currently without games to play until at least April 30, the Australian midfielder has been keeping himself occupied to maintain not only his physical but also his mental health during this difficult period.
“I studying psychology now I am in my first year," said Edwards". "I have really enjoyed the content of the course which has helped me think of how we deal with things on and off the pitch as a footballer.
“It’s really important to try and stay proactive and keep your mind and body busy during these times, so when things go back to normal or when you achieve what you want to achieve you go back into it ready and firing.”
The attacking-midfielder has always prioritised and been focused on the mental aspect of football and life in general from an early age, having left Australia, where he grew up, as a 16-year-old to join Reading’s academy.
“From an early age I had to learn to deal with all aspects of life very quickly, so that’s a challenge in itself.
“I was really enjoying speaking about the sports psychology side of the game [at Reading] which was where my interest started.”
The 26-year-old believes sticking to a written routine has helped him during his career and especially during this uncertain time.
“I find when I write these things down in the form of a journal or a piece of paper it helps my mind stay clear without all these thoughts and things cluttering up in my head.
"It holds you accountable for things you want to achieve.”
Despite the 2019-20 season being on hold, it is clear that Ryan will be prepared for whatever the outcome may be and is ready to continue his progression on and off the field as a Burton player.