Wes Foderingham is well-known for his career as a talented goalkeeper and trophy winner. However, behind the professional accolades, he is a 33-year-old man whose journey began in humble circumstances in Shepherd’s Bush, west London. His early experiences, shaped by adversity and financial struggles, have left a lasting impact on him and continue to influence both his personal life and his approach to football.
Growing up, Foderingham’s family faced financial hardship, and while many children received presents like clothes, books, or video games, he often received little. The most memorable gift he received was a Rubik’s cube—a simple present that, despite its modesty, played a significant role in his development. Foderingham credits the puzzle with helping him excel academically, achieving eight A*s at GCSE, and fostering resilience during tough times. It was also a symbol of how dedication and persistence can lead to success, values that helped him rise to become a Premier League goalkeeper.
Reflecting on his childhood, Foderingham sees Christmas differently now that he has his own family. “When you’re younger, Christmas is all about the presents, but as you get older, it’s more about family and appreciating what you have,” he said. “Seeing my kids’ excitement on Christmas morning fills me with joy.” One Christmas, when his father was struggling, he received the Rubik’s cube, a gift that became a daily source of entertainment and problem-solving. “It taught me that when you focus on something and stick with it, you can overcome obstacles,” Foderingham explained.
Now a father of three, Foderingham feels fortunate to be in a position where he can provide his children with gifts and share the joy of Christmas with them. “It’s a time that everyone looks forward to, and it’s special to experience that with my family,” he said, adding that he’s grateful for the opportunity to create happy memories together.
While Christmas is often a time for relaxation and spending time with loved ones, for Foderingham, it’s also a period of balancing his professional responsibilities as a footballer. With over 450 career appearances, he has learned to adapt to the demands of the game, which often includes training or matches on Christmas Day. “People can’t believe we train on Christmas Day, but for us, it’s normal,” Foderingham said. “It’s hard being away from family, especially with young children, but it’s part of the job.”
Even though his time with family may be limited during the festive period, Foderingham values every moment he gets to spend with them. “We might open presents in the morning before training or spend the afternoon together, but even if it’s just for part of the day, it’s still special,” he said. He also enjoys a traditional Christmas dinner, mindful of his diet as a professional athlete. “I still have the Christmas dinner, just a bit more carefully,” he added. “It’s important to enjoy the day with your loved ones.”
For Foderingham, the busy festive period is also a time when football brings people together. “Christmas is when more fans are free from work and can come to games,” he said. “It’s a busy time for us, but also one that we take very seriously, as it’s an important part of the season.”
