A parent’s dedication knows no bounds, a truth that Marcia Lewis-Skelly embodies as she champions her son, Myles, a promising 17-year-old at Arsenal. Currently on a pre-season tour in the U.S., Myles is eager to catch the eye of manager Mikel Arteta and secure a spot in the first team.
Marcia’s path to becoming Myles’s agent has been nothing short of extraordinary. Formerly a leader in learning and development at an investment bank, she transitioned into the football world—an environment that was initially alien to her. In a candid chat with The Athletic, she recalled a pivotal phone call while Myles was in Spain for a tour. Initially anxious, she quickly learned it was an agent reaching out to discuss representation.
Despite regulations preventing agents from engaging with players until they turn 16, interest often comes early. Marcia, unfamiliar with the football landscape, found herself navigating offers for Myles, who had joined Arsenal’s academy at Under-9 after trials with Chelsea and Tottenham.
When a major sports brand sought to sponsor Myles at just 12 years old, Marcia felt the enormity of her responsibility. Lacking a network or family ties in football, she was determined to safeguard her son’s future. Myles, on his part, remained blissfully unaware of the complexities, simply focused on his passion for the game.
To bolster her confidence, Marcia reached out to other parents involved in football, finding support and guidance. She also took her commitment a step further by enrolling in a master’s program in football business and dedicating countless hours to prepare for FIFA’s agent exam. This initiative not only equipped her with essential knowledge but also allowed her to formally represent Myles.
Marcia emphasized, “There are plenty of capable agents, but we needed the time to forge connections and truly grasp their role.” Now, with millions of children participating in organized football, she is passionate about sharing her insights and experiences, helping others navigate the intricacies of the sport with confidence.