Never Give Up: The Remarkable Rise of Dan Burn

I want to thank Craig Sammells from Orthex Group for sending me the link to the BBC article below on Dan Burn—the 6ft 7in footballer whose life has taken a remarkable turn.
 
Dan’s journey began with rejection, but he never gave up. He once pushed supermarket trolleys for a living while holding on to his dream of becoming a professional footballer.
 
Fast-forward to an unforgettable week: last week, he played a key role in helping Newcastle win the Carabao Cup—their first domestic trophy in 70 years. Yesterday, he was on the pitch representing England, helping them to victory in their first World Cup qualifier under new manager Thomas Tuchel.
 
What an incredible turnaround! It was a journey he may never have imagined, but one made possible because he refused to give up. Life has rewarded him with moments he’ll never forget.
 
 
Dan Burn has had to do things the hard way.
 
From being rejected by his boyhood club, Newcastle United, as a youngster to pushing supermarket trolleys, he could easily have given up on his football career before it had really begun.
 
The 32-year-old, who was initially a goalkeeper, also lost his ring finger on his right hand aged just 13 in a childhood accident.
 
Now, the 6ft 7in defender has the Three Lions—albeit so far only the training kit—on his chest as he reflects on the journey that has brought him to the week of his dreams.
 
Just days after receiving his first England call-up, Burn helped his beloved Magpies end a 70-year wait for a domestic trophy at Wembley with the opening goal against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final.
 
His attention now turns to a potential debut for his country – after being included in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad – when he would become the oldest player to make a first appearance since former Bolton Wanderers striker Kevin Davies 15 years ago.
 
“It was strange, as soon as I left the stadium [Wembley], it switched to this,” he said. “We got the bus back at 12 o’clock. It was getting rowdy, and I was ready to go back to bed.
 
“I’ve waited a long time for this opportunity, and I didn’t want to spoil it. He [Thomas Tuchel] said I’ve been playing well for a long time. I’m not just coming in to be a cheerleader – I want to play.
 
“Every little kid’s dream is to play in a World Cup. Knowing I have that opportunity if I take it is special.
 
“I feel like I’m a leader on and off the pitch. I fit into that role. That’s how I feel I can best help the team.”
 
 
There are some powerful learning points in Dan Burn’s story—here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:
 
1. Rejection Isn’t the End—It Can Be the Beginning
Newcastle United rejected Dan as a youngster, the very club he dreamed of playing for. But instead of giving up, he kept going. Rejection doesn’t define you—it can redirect you.
 
2. Stay Committed Through the Struggles
He pushed supermarket trolleys and worked outside of football, but he didn’t let that stop him from training, improving, and staying focused on his dream.
 
3. Resilience Is Built Through Adversity
Losing a finger at 13, especially as a goalkeeper, could have ended his career. Instead, he adapted and found a new path—as a defender. Life will throw challenges, but resilience helps you pivot and keep moving.
 
4. Age Isn’t a Barrier to Success
At 32, Burn is only now breaking into the England squad—proving it’s never too late to reach new heights. Patience and long-term commitment can pay off.
 
5. Dreams Can Come True in Unexpected Ways
To score at Wembley and, help Newcastle win their first trophy in 70 years, and get called up to the national team days later—that’s the stuff of dreams. And it happened because he stayed ready and never gave up.
 
Dan Burn’s story reminds us that setbacks don’t stop success—they shape it. You can fail, fall, and still rise if you keep believing in yourself.
 
 
Thoughts for the week. 

1. Rejection isn’t the end – It can be the start of something better.
2. Hold on to your dream – Even when the road gets tough.
3. Use setbacks as fuel – Let them drive you, not stop you.
4. It’s never too late – Success has no age limit.
5. This week, think about Dan’s story and how that can help you try one more time. 

 
Well, that’s it for this week. Have a wonderful weekend, and keep believing.
 
Warm regards
 
John

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