Pierce Brown, who is just eight years old, has worn glasses since he was three years old and has had a passion for football for as long as he can remember.
The youngster joined Pollok FC in 2021 through its Mini Kickers programme, but as he began developing his football skills, he found his glasses often got in the way.
Pierce said: “When I started with the team, I was wearing glasses while on the pitch, which was difficult at times as they would often fall off.
“I have broken quite a few pairs of glasses while playing football.”
With the support of his parents and coach, Pollok FC introduced him to sports goggles, and his game has transformed.
Pierce said: “I started wearing goggles last year.
“After wearing them for a while during games and training, I didn’t want to take them off as they’re really comfy and they look really cool.
“They just feel safer.
“I’m never without my glasses as I can’t see much without them.
“My goggles have really changed my performance.
“I couldn’t go back to wearing glasses on the pitch – my goggles have become part of the game for me now.”
Pierce’s story comes as part of a national conversation on normalising sports goggles for young players, championed by Scotland and Aston Villa footballer John McGinn.
McGinn’s now-famous goggles celebration was inspired by his nephew Jack, who also wears protective eyewear on the pitch.
Pierce said: “The John McGinn celebration has really given me confidence when it comes to wearing my goggles and glasses.
“He’s an icon in the football world, and it’s even better knowing he’s from Glasgow.”
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John McGinn first did the celebration for his nephew Jack. (Image: Specsavers)
Since beginning his celebration, John McGinn says he has been overwhelmed by the global response from parents and young players, receiving messages from across the world thanking him for raising awareness.
He said: “I love being able to be a positive role model.
“Having an impact on so many kids around the world is a huge reason and motivation to do it.
“For me, it’s a huge part of my game now and something I’ll keep doing for the rest of my career.”
The footballer has also emphasised the importance of safety when it comes to eyewear in sport.
He said: “The risk of a ball hitting a child wearing glasses is huge.
“Goggles protect their eyes, and with the technology available now, there’s no reason any child should feel uncomfortable wearing them.
“It’s about safety, comfort and enjoyment.”
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McGinn played his part in Scotland qualifying for its first World Cup in 27 years, last week. (Image: Specsavers)
Specsavers is currently supporting young footballers by offering a 10% discount on prescription sports goggles for club players under the age of 18.
The campaign aims to promote safety, confidence and inclusion on the pitch.
Jenny Stephenson, chairperson for Specsavers Scotland, said: “The new sports goggles campaign is about more than vision – it’s about confidence and inclusion.
“We want young players and their parents to see sports goggles as a normal, affordable and essential part of the game, so no child ever feels held back from playing the sport they love.
“Parents can be reassured by Specsavers’ care and expertise, while players can focus on performance – knowing their eyewear is safe, durable and designed for the demands of football.”
