International soccer legend and ex-Socceroo, Andy Bernal, popped into the Salvation Army’s Dooralong Transformation Centre recently to share his story of conquering addiction and offer some hope to participants.
“I told them the story of a kid born in Canberra who went to all the football heights you can dream of,” Bernal said.
“I became a Socceroo, was the first Australian to play in Spain and to captain an English club; these are things I am very proud of.
“What I’m not so proud of is that I became addicted to cocaine after my football career ended.
“I suppose I was looking for something to equal the highs I enjoyed in football and decided to go down another path looking for that buzz.
“It was fun for a little while but then it became a life ruining habit.
“There were 10-15 years where addiction ruined my life, impacting in a negative and dark way.
“I hit rock bottom but it was a wake up call when I realised I risked losing everything.”
Bernal was able to conquer his addiction by finding sport again.
“I worked with the Australian boxing team for the 2012 Olympics and got back into an athletic lifestyle,” he said.
These days Bernal works with the Central Coast Mariners on athletic development and tries to inspire others with his story of recovery.
“I decided I was here for a reason,” he said.
“I wanted to be a better role model and I hope my story gives hope to others.
“I want to let them know that sometimes there is a lot of darkness in life but there’s always light if you look for it.”
Bernal’s story is documented in his autobiography, Riding Shotgun.
Support worker at the Dooralong facility Kristy said it was wonderful to have Bernal share his experience, strength, and hope with the community on site.
“It was such an inspiration,” she said.
Participant Chris said he found Bernal‘s story inspirational.
“I thought his story was true to heart, and something I could relate to,” he said.
“I found an important part of my own recovery the day he visited us, because of his rise back to the top from such a vulnerable low point in life – the journey of self-realisation encouraged us all.”
Fellow participant Mick said he was inspired by Bernal’s story of finding new ways forward, facing the past, and learning to look forward to the future again.
“It encouraged me,” he said.
Participant Luke said he found it inspirational that Bernal had turned his negative experiences into a positive career for himself.
“It was a weight lifted off my shoulders to see his life have such a good meaning after all he has been through,” he said.
“I love that the Central Coast Mariners are backing him 100per cent.”
Staff worker Chris said it was a “blessing” that Bernal shares his in story to encourage and inspire the next generation.
“We are grateful for the generosity, kindness and friendship shown to us by Andy, his wife Jaynie, and the Central Coast Mariners,” he said.
“It really encourages us to have their support as we close out this year and look forward to new opportunities together for 2023.”
The Salvation Army’s Dooralong Transformation Centre is Australia’s largest drug, alcohol and gambling rehabilitation centre providing residential support services.
For more information visit the Dooralong Transformation Centre website or contact the Centre on 4355 8000.
Terry Collins