Deaf Footballer’s Daughter with Epilepsy Scores Against Man Utd
Matt Crooks, a 30-year-old football star with epilepsy, has just secured a dream move to MLS side Real Salt Lake. The midfielder, whose father represented Great Britain’s deaf team, will now have the opportunity to come up against renowned players like Lionel Messi. Despite growing up supporting Manchester United, Crooks famously scored an equalizer against the Red Devils in the FA Cup, which led to a penalty shootout that Middlesbrough won.
Crooks recently bid an emotional farewell to Middlesbrough, expressing his gratitude for the memories he created during his two-and-a-half years at the club. He mentioned notable matches such as Reading at home, United away, Spurs at home, and Chelsea at home. As he joins Real Salt Lake, Crooks is looking forward to being deployed as a No.10 and facing some of the greatest players in that position.
MLS has been enhanced by the presence of players like Messi, which has contributed to its growing reputation and appeal. Crooks is excited about the opportunity to play in America and experience football and life in another country with his family. He is ready to embrace his role as one of the 10s for Real Salt Lake.
Crooks’ journey to America is not only remarkable on the pitch but also off it. He has overcome challenges such as the loss of a long-time footballing friend and growing up in a family where both his parents were deaf. Regarding his epilepsy, Crooks believes that he should embrace it as part of who he is and not live in fear of its consequences.
Notably, Crooks’ father, Dave, had an impressive sporting career representing Great Britain in football at four deaf Olympics. He won one gold, one silver, and one bronze medal. Crooks takes inspiration from his father’s determination to make sport a significant part of his life despite the challenges he faced due to his deafness.
In addition to his football career, Crooks is actively involved in two charities. The Peter Doody Foundation aims to normalize epilepsy, and the Jordan Sinnott Foundation Trust honors his late ex-Huddersfield teammate. Crooks serves as the vice-chair and trustee for the Jordan Sinnott Foundation Trust.
As Crooks embarks on this new chapter of his career, he continues to defy expectations and inspire others with his talent, perseverance, and dedication both on and off the pitch.