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I can state unequivocally that many of the top names and stars in football or athletics today began their careers as a side gig rather than as their primary focus.
To combat loneliness and peer pressure, some people started by joining a gym where they had to put in a little work. Others took an interest in track and field competitions. Some even began their football careers on a difficult path with no sign of a bright future, but as the years passed, their inherent talents began to shine through, their luck began to shine, and they developed a strong connection to a major league team.