Eastbourne Borough’s commitment to player welfare shines through the remarkable recovery stories of Camron Gbadebo and Alex Finney – two athletes who transformed devastating injuries into powerful narratives of human resilience.

Gbadebo played barely twenty minutes before rupturing his Anterior Cruciate Ligament in the 2-0 win at Welling United back in December, whilst Finney ruptured his Patellar Tendon in March.

Both have now re-signed for the Sports following successful recoveries, and have paid tribute to the work the club has done to assist their recoveries – and everyone at the club are excited to see them back in training.

“When we first took over, one of the first things we made a priority was the welfare of any player who joined us,” Borough Chairman Simon Leslie explains.

“We made a promise to every player who signed on that we would be there for them and help them should the worst happen, and in both of these cases the road to recovery hasn’t been easy.

“This reinforces our commitment to support our players through their careers – be it good or bad – and I’m excited to see them back playing.”

Finney’s injury away at Truro City back in March required him to be taken away in an ambulance.

After suffering another lengthy injury during the first part of the campaign, it was a difficult set-back for the defender.

“The recovery was hard. I spent three months in a brace – you don’t get a lot of blood flow and I was in excruciating pain.

“It was a big mental battle, and there were multiple times when I said maybe it’s time to call it a day – having a baby in that time as well I needed a bit more security – but you see the light at the end of the tunnel.

“I spoke to Simon quite a bit. He’s not just a chairman, he’s the life and soul of the club. Maybe people wouldn’t know what he does from the outside, but it’s  a personal relationship you have with him. He’s involved and he gave me a lot of support.

“He wouldn’t know when I was at my lowest, but both him and the gaffer (Adam Murray) would send me a message and perk me up and I wouldn’t be here without that support.”

What emerges is a profound story beyond mere sports recovery. Chairman Simon Leslie’s approach transcends typical club management, creating a deeply personal environment where players are seen as humans first, athletes second.

His consistent communication and practical support – including contributing to Gbadebo’s surgery – exemplifies a compassionate leadership that nurtures both physical healing and emotional resilience.

Gbadebo isn’t perhaps as well known to Borough supporters after a short cameo, but he also paid tribute to the club’s support.

“It was a long journey, I had some set-backs, but it’s made me stronger mentally and I’m raring to go,” said the 22-year-old.

“Simon remained in touch with me and helped keep me positive, as well as contributed to the surgery I needed so I couldn’t be more grateful.

“I hadn’t played under Adam when I suffered my injury, but despite that he would keep checking in on me and making sure I felt included in his plans and it gives you such a boost.”

This journey goes beyond football, and the club are committed to supporting mental health across sport and in our local community.

Their re-signing isn’t just a sporting transaction, but a testament to human endurance, institutional support, and the transformative power of genuine care.