Footballer took his own life as career ruined by injuries
AFOOTBALLER who had represented Wales at youth level took his own life after a series of long-term injuries ruined his career, an inquest heard.
Joel Darlington also had trials with Manchester United and played for Bala Town’s Welsh Premier League side until injuries plagued his career.
The injuries left him suffering from anxiety and he dropped out of college courses which he had hoped would set him on a career as a fitness instructor.
The 20-year-old was found hanged in the family garage in Gellifor, near Ruthin, on March 18 and he left several notes indicating that he had intended to take his own life.
At a hearing in Ruthin John Gittins, coroner for North Wales East and Central, recorded a conclusion of suicide.
Joel’s parents, Shaun Darlington
and Dawn Davies, were not present at the hearing, at which the coroner read a statement from Mrs Davies outlining her son’s sporting background.
A former pupil of Rhos Street Primary School and Ysgol Brynhyfryd, Ruthin, he played for local junior sides from a young age and his training impacted on his social life.
His six-week trial with Manchester United ended when he broke his arm and he also had trials with Shrewsbury.
He joined Bala Town’s academy and was their top scorer in 2016-17. He left for a while to play for Denbigh Town but then returned to the Gwynedd Premiership club.
In June 2017 he had a back pain which was diagnosed as possible scar tissue from a slipped disc, and when physiotherapy failed to improve things in the long term he sought other solutions, including acupuncture.
Mrs Davies said Joel did not return to Yale College in October 2018, and suffered from anxiety. He withdrew from social life but appeared more positive about his future.
On the day before his death he spoke positively to his father about his future. However, when Mrs Davies returned from a trip to Wrexham she and her other son, Kyran, found the garage door locked. They later broke in and found Joel inside.
Following Joel’s death Andy Kelly, Bala Town’s academy administrator, described him as “an exceptional talent”.
“He was a pleasure for me to watch and coach during my time with him,” he said.
Wynne Davies, chairman of Ruthin Youth team, said that Joel had almost single-handedly won the League for the side when playing for the club’s under-12s.
“He had two great feet and was equally comfortable dribbling and shooting with either,” he said.
He also played for Llangynhafal FC in the Llandyrnog and District Village Football Summer League.
The club said they were “deeply saddened” by the news of his death in a statement at the time.
“Joel Darlington was a gifted footballer, but more importantly a deeply valued friend,” it said.
“Many of the lads have memories with Joel that will be cherished for a lifetime. We send our deepest condolences.”
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