Danny Grant - Bohemian FC & U21 Irish International Striker
Daniel Grant is a 20-year-old footballer from Lucan, who is currently playing with Bohemians F.C, who are one of the best teams in Ireland playing in the highest tier in the League of Ireland.
This is the second time I have had the opportunity to meet Danny, the first time was at the FAI grounds in Blanchardstown' where One Recruitment organised a “believe in your dreams” experience for secondary schools. Danny gave up his time to support the event and to give back to the younger generation, just one example of how humble Danny is at such a young
age. I had the opportunity to ask Danny about his own journey to date and his plans for the future. The purpose of this blog is not to talk all about football, but to highlight how discipline and personal commitment is required to be successful, not just talent!
Was being a professional footballer always your dream?
Yes, but in my younger days I didn’t apply the right dedication it required. I had good ability, but attitude and application weren’t fully there. Like most young teenagers I was distracted, doing teenager things, “being one of the lads”. I think of this time as a positive learning experience, that has shaped me to apply the right application to my career, inside and outside of football.
Danny, where did it all begin?
''No idea it has all just flew in really'' I was playing in the Leinster Senior League on a sunny Dublin morning “doubt it was sunny” I knew there was scouts coming to watch my schoolboy team play but didn't know the extent of it. Four League of Ireland teams were present, looking for the next big signing before the start of the season. I scored so this always helps with your chances! After the game I had scouts ringing me directly, there was multiple options, but one stood out, Bohs. Later that week I went training with the under 19's squad, I scored an absolute ''cracker'' of a volley and put pen to paper later that night. The beginning had begun!
Plan going forward / see yourself in 10 years?
I am currently in my 2nd year of a three-year Business Management Degree in Maynooth, while also playing full-time with Bohs. I am doing something I love and obviously aspire to go the highest possible level within the game. The plan over the next ten years is being developed right now, I’m focused on educating myself both on and off the field to ensure I give myself the best possible opportunities in life.
Q- Messi or Ronaldo?
A- Messi
Q- Name your dream 5 aside?
Van Der Saar
Zidane, De Bruyne
Ronaldinho
Messi
Conor Ryan Opinion:
Danny is an absolute gentleman. As highlighted, I met Danny at the One Agency “believe in your dreams” event. After the event the team at One Agency and the school he supported on the day commented on how much of a nice guy Danny is. It felt like we knew him ages. Danny has worked hard to get to where he is and is taking nothing for granted, hence him completing his
degree in Maynooth. For such a young guy he has taken responsibility for his own destiny and I have nothing but admiration for him. Being in his company you are automatically joking and laughing, his personality is infectious “in a positive way”. Danny has a bright future, everything he is achieving is down to hard work and his vision. If reading this far, I hope you’ve taken motivation from Danny’s journey to date. I’d like to close this out by saying Danny is a gentleman, before being a footballer or student! Being humble, respectful and kind costs nothing, and I can honestly say Danny is 10/10, in every department. Best wishes to Danny this season, thank you again for time. CR
PS – I will, without doubt win in a 100m sprint and challenge you ANYTIME, maybe we can do it soon for a charity?