Made in Sunderland: former footballer achieves new goal

The University's partnership with Sunderland AFC launched this week (20-24 April) and on matchday you can see some of the students, alumni, staff and friends of the University on display on the big screen in Keel Square who are “Made in Sunderland”.

Made in Sunderland is a week-long celebration of the stories, people, businesses and culture that make our city great. The week will culminate at the Stadium of Light when the Black Cats face Nottingham Forest on Friday 24 April.

Among those featured in the Made In Sunderland campaign is trainee barrister, and former professional footballer, Adam Bale. Adam played for both Sunderland AFC and Hartlepool United, until injury made him rethink his career path. After his career as a footballer ended he decided to study Law at the University of Sunderland, graduating in 2023.

“After graduation I worked as a paralegal in Newcastle, and now I’m working as a barrister,” Adam said.

“It’s been a long road, but at least now when I argue with people, it’s considered a skill rather than a personality flaw.

“I spent a few years as a professional footballer, and it taught me a lot: discipline, resilience, how to handle pressure, and how to get back up after a bad day.

“People see the matches, but they don’t always see what the job is actually like. It’s competitive, intense, and it can knock your confidence if you’re not careful. You’re constantly trying to prove yourself, deal with knocks, and stay sharp. But there’s a side to it that stays with you - the dressing‑room humour, the friendships you make, and the feeling of being part of a group all pulling in the same direction.

“Going from football into law meant starting again from scratch. One minute you’re doing pre‑season, the next you’re on your feet cross‑examining someone in court and wondering how life took that turn. But the mentality from football, taking setbacks, staying focused, and pushing yourself, made the transition doable. And honestly, it’s been extremely rewarding. Less running, more reading. Swings and roundabouts.

“Those lessons have followed me into law more than I expected. Staying calm, preparing properly, dealing with pressure, working with people - it all carries over. The only real difference is that in court nobody’s giving you a rating out of ten the next day.”

Adam is originally from Manchester but moved to Sunderland when he was 13. He is now back in Manchester working as a barrister, but still keeps a close eye on his old club.

“Though I’m based in Manchester for work I still follow Sunderland closely and get back when I can," Adam explained.

"I’ve also got family in the region, so I’m up there fairly often anyway.

"If you grow up in Sunderland, and especially once you’ve played for the club, supporting the club isn’t optional. It’s like a lifelong contract you didn’t realise you’d signed. You’re in for the highs, the lows, and the emotional damage in between.

“I’m proud to have graduated from the University of Sunderland. The University was genuinely supportive - great lecturers, proper guidance, and people who push you when you need it but also know when to put an arm around you. I’ve got a lot of good memories from my time there, and I always tell people to consider studying law. With the right support, it’s far more achievable than people think.

“Sunderland as a whole has that same spirit: hardworking, honest, and full of heart. The city looks after its own, and the football club reflects that perfectly.

“There is a loyalty and a resilience about Sunderland that stays with you, and it’s something I’m genuinely proud to be part of.”