Kit Margetson | A Cut Above The Rest

Once a week, goalkeeper Kit Margetson swaps stopping shots for chopping mops after pursuing barbering alongside his full-time footballing schedule.

The 17-year-old – who signed a three-year professional contract this summer – has been utilising his skills at Gent’s of Mumbles barber shop every Thursday.

The Welsh international recently completed his level two certificate in barbering, swapping his goalkeeping gloves for a set of clippers as part of the academy’s life skills and education programme.  

The academy education programme plays an integral part in the development of Swansea City's young players, allowing them the opportunity to complete BTEC qualifications alongside coaching certifications with Uefa. 

The barbering course, run in conjunction with Gower College Swansea, provided Kit with the skills and knowledge to cut men's hair into basic looks and maintain facial hair shapes using simple cutting techniques. 

Many academy players have followed suit, starting their level one barbering qualification, with some scholars taking up plumbing and construction at BTEC level.

“It’s very important that we, as players, especially at this level, work hard outside of training to develop skills in other areas, because football doesn’t work out for everyone," said Margetson.

“I’ve been looking into getting into barbering for a while, and now it’s something I look forward to on my days off from training. 

“It’s something different to do alongside my sporting career, I like that contrast. Obviously in football you have a routine to follow, so to have something different and unique to do is fun, but also very useful. 

“I’ve been utilising my skills at Gent’s of Mumbles in Swansea. A huge thank you to Luke [Brown] and Matthew [East] - who own the shop - for letting me gain valuable experience of working in a barbers. 

“I’ve spent a lot of time watching and learning off them, and they’ve even let me cut their own hair!

“During the course I'd go to Gower College once or twice a week, where I’d also be learning about health and safety practices and promotions. 

“There were a lot of modules in the course, so the qualification covers a wide range of areas in barbering.  

“At the minute, I’m really enjoying doing something new, and I want to keep building on that and get even better."

Whenever he wasn't doing drills or putting in work in the gym, Margetson is giving his teammates fresh cuts as the under-18s' unofficial barber.

“I’ve cut a few of the lads’ hair on away trips, they’ve been brave!," he laughed.

“A massive thank you to the staff at the academy, also. They’ve helped me get onto the course and also pushed me along the way whilst earning my qualification."

Jack Pritchard and Jordan Morris, education assistant and head of education at the academy have been delighted to see Margetson enjoy completing his qualification, and the importance of maintaining their education alongside football. 

“On behalf of everyone at the academy, we are all extremely proud of Kit for the achievement of his level one and level two barbering qualification," said Morris.

“Kit is already applying these valuable skills in a barbering shop for work experience, exposing him further to the roles and responsibilities that are expected of him in this career choice. 

“For us as staff it is always refreshing to see these young men manage their academic and sporting aspirations through hard work, professionalism and commitment. 

“Kit, as we all know, is a fantastic player but he’s an even better person, someone who is highly thought of by all his teammates and staff that sets an outstanding example day in and day out.”