Joe Thompson is a formidable footballer, who's on-pitch determination in the face of adversity has shaped him as a person, and a speaker. Following a battle with cancer, Joe has proved that mental strength and a positive attitude hold the key to self-motivation through life's challenges. Audiences are inspired by Joe's thought-provoking anecdotes, whether from the perspective of a footballer or a two-time cancer survivor. Joe is an award-winning athlete, his strategies for success are fuelled by a strong understanding of teamwork and leadership.
Aged just 16, Joe joined Rochdale Football Club, the team that he is famed for. He was awarded the League Two Apprentice award after just 13 appearances, a testament to his natural talent on the pitch. In 2009, after scoring a goal against Port Vale, he was awarded Man of the Match, the mark of a truly incredible player. Joe went from strength to strength, described by the Manchester Evening News as the "most improved member of the squad". With over 225 senior appearances, Joe scored 23 goals.
While in Tranmere Rovers' first team, Joe was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. He later signed with Bury, whose manager described his mental strength as inspiring. In 2017, after Joe had fought off cancer, it was announced that the disease had returned for a second time. He remained strong through the life-threatening challenge and, once again, beat cancer. As an after dinner speaker, audiences are inspired by Joe's story, as he discusses the highs of football success and lows of his fight with cancer.
For corporate guests, footballers can provide an insight into productive teamwork, leadership and peak performance, influenced by their first hand experiences. Joe's stories showcase football in all of its glory, including the support of an entire stadium when he was diagnosed with cancer. Knowledgeable, inspiring and highly motivating, a speaker like Joe can leave a lasting impression on event guests.
How to hire Joe Thompson
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Joe Thompson for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
When he's at corporate events, Joe is known to cover the following topics:
- Drive and determination
- Overcoming adversity
- Leadership and teamwork
Official Feedback From In-Person & Virtual Events
Feedback From In-Person Events:
"Joe's stories genuinely resonated with everyone present, providing insights on leadership, dealing with imposter syndrome, maintaining a positive mindset, the significance of resilience, and the power of facing life's challenges with a trusted network. His unwavering determination left a lasting impression on all of us. The difficulties he has faced coupled with his positive mindset led for a session that ensured people walked away feeling like they can defeat any challenge in front of them." - Craig, Vice President, JP Morgan
- 2023 - Inducted into the Rochdale AFC Hall of Fame
- 2021 - Published his autobiography "Darkness and Light," detailing his life and battles with cancer
- 2018 - Awarded the Sir Tom Finney Award at the EFL Awards for his inspiring comeback
- 2017 - Played a pivotal role in Rochdale's survival in League One by scoring the decisive goal against Charlton Athletic
- 2017 - Returned to professional football after battling Hodgkin lymphoma for the second time
- 2015 - Diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma for the second time and began treatment
- 2014 - Made a successful return to professional football after overcoming Hodgkin lymphoma
- 2013 - Diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and began treatment
- 2013 - Rejoined Rochdale AFC and helped them earn promotion to League One
- 2012 - Played in the League Two play-offs with Tranmere Rovers
- 2011 - Signed with Tranmere Rovers, becoming a regular first-team player
- 2008 - Established himself as a first-team regular with Rochdale AFC
- 2006 - Made his professional debut for Rochdale AFC
- 2005 - Graduated from Manchester United's youth academy and joined Rochdale AFC
