By KLTV Newsdesk –

New biography sheds light on the dark side of professional sport and the hope that lies beyond addiction

A powerful new biography, My Redemption, by former professional footballer Tony Kelly, offers a raw and compelling account of his battle with gambling addiction, his life in football, and his ultimate journey to recovery through faith, resilience and inner strength.

A Candid Look at Addiction and Adversity

In My Redemption, Tony Kelly opens up about the harrowing grip of gambling addiction – a disease that cost him over £500,000, three homes, his long-term partner, and his mental health.

With unflinching honesty, he shares how the addiction spiralled out of control, leading to a £192,000 bankruptcy in 2009.

“I’ve lost over £500,000, lost three houses, my partner of 20 years, suffered with mental health, and went bankrupt back in 2010,” he says.

“But the most important message I want people to know is that recovery from any trauma or adversity is possible, and that gambling addiction is a serious mental disorder that ruins lives and takes lives.

“My story is about tragedy, inspiration, recovery, resilience, faith, and triumph!

“I want to inspire the next generation, and in particular young people, so they are aware that whatever they go through, there is a way out, and recovery is possible for anyone.”

Life as a Professional Footballer

Equally insightful is the book’s behind-the-scenes look into the world of professional football.

Kelly, who played for seven English Football League clubs, including Bristol City, Stoke City and Leyton Orient, made 210 league appearances during his career.

He also holds the record as the youngest ever debutant for Bristol City, taking to the pitch at just 16 years and 244 days.

From gruelling training sessions to the emotional toll of injuries, racism, and rejection, Kelly offers readers a rare glimpse into the pressures faced by aspiring and professional athletes.

His resilience, honed on and off the pitch, would later become a vital part of his journey to recovery.

Growing Up in Coventry: Roots and Resilience

The biography also paints a vivid picture of Kelly’s formative years in Coventry.

Beginning his football journey at the age of nine, he recounts the challenges of navigating a world that was often hostile to young Black players.

Enduring racism and repeated setbacks, these early experiences laid the groundwork for the incredible determination he would later draw upon in his recovery.

Faith, Recovery and Redemption

At the heart of Tony Kelly’s transformation is a renewed connection with his Christian faith, having been baptised in 2017, which played a pivotal role in his healing.

His founding of the Red Card Gambling Support Project in 2015—a charity that raises awareness about gambling harms and offers crucial support to those affected, also played a major part.

An Advocate for Change

Today, Tony Kelly is a prominent national advocate for gambling harm awareness.

He has delivered over 50 talks and webinars, and shared his story in more than 20 media interviews, including BBC Breakfast in 2013 and BBC Morning Live in 2024.

His first book, Red Card, marked the beginning of his public recovery journey.

Through his work, he continues to champion the importance of education, awareness and faith, particularly within the Caribbean community.

A Book of Hope and Healing

With problem gambling on the rise in the UK, My Redemption offers not only a gripping personal account, but also a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand or overcome addiction.

Whether you’re a football fan, someone affected by addiction, or simply in search of an inspiring true story, My Redemption is a powerful and thought-provoking read that proves no matter how far one falls, recovery is always possible.

About the Author

Tony Kelly is a former professional footballer and now a respected voice in the fight against gambling harm. He is the founder of the Red Card Gambling Support Project, a motivational speaker, author, and advocate whose mission is to inspire and support others in overcoming trauma and addiction.

My Redemption is available online and in all good bookstores.