Jermain Defoe has experienced numerous encounters with mascots, walking alongside many young boys and girls onto pitches before significant matches. While he was always attentive and kind, once the game began, the focus shifted as the mascots ran back to their families on the touchline.
However, everything changed in September 2016 when a frail six-year-old boy entered the Sunderland dressing room at the Stadium of Light before a match against Everton and met his idol. Defoe vividly remembers the moment when Bradley approached him, sat on his lap, and struck up a conversation about his boots. This encounter marked the beginning of a special bond that Defoe describes as magical and unlike any other.
Their friendship blossomed and endured until Bradley Lowery tragically passed away from neuroblastoma, a rare form of childhood cancer, in July 2017. Defoe remains deeply connected to Bradley’s family, profoundly impacted by the short yet profound relationship they shared. This poignant connection serves as a central theme in “Defoe: For the Love of the Game,” a documentary that delves into the life of the former England striker both on and off the field.
Scheduled for a one-night screening in UK cinemas on 29 February, the film offers insights beyond Defoe’s impressive record of over 300 goals during his 23-year professional career, spanning clubs such as West Ham, Bournemouth, Tottenham, Portsmouth, Toronto, Sunderland, and Rangers.
Throughout his journey, Defoe underwent various transformations, from adopting a vegan lifestyle to becoming teetotal. Amidst earning 57 caps for England, his personal life often made headlines, including the tragic loss of family members like his half-brother Jade and father Jimmy. The pain deepened with the untimely death of his cousin Hannah. Despite his prolific scoring, these losses weighed heavily on Defoe until his encounter with Bradley, which catalyzed a healing process from his past traumas.
Driven by a desire to give back, Defoe, influenced by his mother Sandra’s values of hard work and respect, established a charity foundation aiding disadvantaged youth in the Caribbean and the UK. This commitment led to him being awarded an OBE in 2018 for his philanthropic efforts.
While reflecting on his past mistakes and personal growth, Defoe now focuses on his coaching aspirations, aiming to become a first-team manager. He acknowledges the lack of diversity in coaching and managerial positions in English football, emphasizing the importance of representation and hoping for a more inclusive future in the sport.
“Defoe: For the Love of the Game” promises to provide a touching portrayal of Jermain Defoe’s life journey, showcasing his resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to both the game and making a positive impact beyond the field.