Former Footballers Abbie McManus and Jess Sigsworth Train as Firefighters

BBC Sport interviewed former Women's Super League players Abbie McManus and Jess Sigsworth about their transition from professional football to firefighting. The two athletes completed their playing careers and then began the training process required to become firefighters. BBC Sport met with them to discuss the steps involved in the career change.

Firefighter training includes physical fitness tests, written examinations, and practical instruction on emergency response procedures. Both former players are working through these stages after leaving competitive football. The program covers equipment operation, rescue techniques, and fire prevention methods.

McManus and Sigsworth described the differences between the training environment and professional sports settings.

Sigsworth said the decision followed the conclusion of their football contracts. They stated that the firefighter role offers a new professional direction after years in elite sport. BBC Sport reported that the pair are among athletes who have moved into public service roles after retirement from professional competition.