Hanging Up Your Boots | Geoff Palmer

In a recent interview, former Wolves player Geoff Palmer discusses his experiences after retiring from football.

How did you feel once you stopped working?

As my football career approached its final 12 months, I realized it was time to start thinking about life after the game. A friend of mine, a police sergeant, and I used to hang out on Wednesday nights and play snooker in Wednesfield. I met some police officers there who would often ask me about my plans for the future. They would suggest different job opportunities and assure me that even though I was only 32 years old, I could still continue playing football. They mentioned the possibility of receiving a good pension as well. I decided to take some exams in Birmingham and passed them successfully. As the team began to break up, it became clear that I would be leaving at the end of my contract. I played my final game in September '86, where I believe we won against Preston 1-0. The following month, I officially joined the police force.

Did it require a period of adaptation for your life to settle into the new routine?

I continued playing football for the West Midlands Police, getting the opportunity to play at various stadiums I hadn't been to during my time at Wolves. This included Ibrox, home of Rangers, and Celtic's ground. Football remained a continued experience for me. After 24 years in the police force, I retired and that marked the end of my working life. Adapting to shift work was challenging, despite what older officers used to say about getting used to it. I worked on morning, afternoon, and night shifts for 24 years and never quite got used to it. It could be amusing at times, heading to work at seven in the morning while everyone else was rushing out. Despite the challenges, the work was interesting and I met many fascinating people. It did change me as a person though, after years of dealing with dishonesty. I became more skeptical of others and it gave me a different perspective on life.

What was the one thing you found yourself longing for the most when it came to football?

Many people talk about missing the sense of friendship and connection in the locker room, and I definitely feel that after spending 15 years at Wolves with some amazing guys. I stay in touch with John Richards, Scouse [John McAlle], and we all had a great relationship because we all worked hard together to win matches. There was a strong bond and some guys were jokes, but others were serious professionals like Scouse and Derek Parkin, who I truly admired. I miss the excitement leading up to the games on Saturdays. I always felt nervous and anxious before matches, but that feeling is something I truly miss now. When I go to Molineux and hear the crowd during games, I can't help but wish I was out there playing again because that's what I miss the most.

Are you still in touch with your fellow team members?

I still hang out with the guys I played with because we are part of an organization called the Former Players’ Association. John Richards leads the group, and I work alongside Phil Parkes, Matt Murray, and Andy Thompson on the committee. We plan events to stay in touch and raise money for charity. It's important for us to support local causes, but we also enjoy getting together. We attend golf days, special events, and even visit Molineux and Compton Park to see how things have changed for current players. It's a whole new world compared to our time on the pitch.

Are you still tuning in to football games and keeping up with the latest news in the sport?

I have been a dedicated fan of Wolves and I still make it a point to attend most games at Molineux. The team has a strong squad right now, despite some changes at the start of the season. The new manager has really rallied the team and they have been performing well in most matches. Many people doubted our abilities this season, but so far we have been holding our own and hopefully we can climb up the standings, especially if we can bring in new players in January.

If given the chance, would you choose to play once more?

The happiest moments of my life were spent at Molineux, playing alongside my teammates like Frank Munro and Derek Doogan. These were the days I cherish the most, and I wouldn't trade them for anything. People often ask me if I would still play now, with all the money involved in the game, but I wouldn't. I am content with the memories and experiences I had back then, and I have no regrets.

What are your aspirations for your legacy at Wolves?

All I hope to be remembered for is being a loyal supporter of Wolves and showing up every Saturday with everything I had. If people think of me as a good, reliable player, then I am happy. I was fortunate to have some great moments with Wolves, playing 496 games and winning a few cups, so I must have been doing something right.

This post first appeared in Wolves' official 2023/24 matchday program. You can still buy last season's programs online at Curtis Sports retailers.