Co Antrim father who overcame stage four cancer and the loss of his son graduates from Ulster University

County Antrim man, John Marshall, as he graduates this week  from Ulster University with a degree in Sports Coaching and Performance

A Ballycarry father who battled stage four cancer, endured the heartbreaking loss of his young son and faced years of personal challenges is celebrating a remarkable achievement after graduating from Ulster University this summer.

John Marshall, who works as a Community Engagement Officer with the Irish Football Association Foundation, crossed the graduation stage having completed a degree in Sports Coaching and Performance while balancing family life, a full-time career and some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable.

For John, graduation represents far more than an academic qualification. It marks the culmination of years of resilience, determination and perseverance through adversity.

A journey shaped by extraordinary challenges

John Marshall

John’s path to university was never straightforward.

Before beginning his studies, he was diagnosed with stage four testicular cancer which had spread to his lungs.

The diagnosis led to extensive treatment, including multiple rounds of chemotherapy, surgery and rehabilitation.

Only after completing treatment did he begin studying on a part-time basis, allowing him to balance his recovery with family responsibilities and professional commitments.

Reflecting on that period, John said the experience fundamentally changed his outlook on life.

“Having cancer changed me as a person. It gave me a completely different perspective on life.

“The treatment affected me physically and mentally, but I believe my passion for health and fitness helped me through it. I’m grateful to be in remission.”

Throughout his recovery, he credits the support of his wife, sister and staff at Ulster University with helping him continue his studies despite the challenges he faced.

Inspired by a son’s courage

The family’s journey became even more difficult during John’s final year at university when their seven-year-old son died following significant medical complications.

John says the courage his son showed throughout his short life became the inspiration that carried him through some of his darkest moments.

“As a family, it has been utterly heartbreaking.

“In his short life, our son faced a number of medical challenges and showed such resilience. I found strength from him, and I wanted to make him proud of his dad.

“He has shaped my life massively in such a short time and, through some really dark times, I pushed through.

“Reaching graduation has shed some light during a very dark period. He has been my inspiration.”

The graduation milestone comes as one of more than 5,000 students complete their studies at Ulster University this summer, with ceremonies taking place over ten days in Belfast, Coleraine and Derry~Londonderry.

From the classroom to changing young lives

John Marshall in his role with the IFA Foundation as a Community Engagement Officer

For the past six years, John has worked with the IFA Foundation as a Community Engagement Officer delivering the award-winning Stay Onside programme.

The initiative uses football as a tool to engage with young people involved in the justice system, helping them build confidence, develop skills and create opportunities for a more positive future.

His studies allowed him to directly connect academic learning with his work on the ground.

Drawing on his frontline experience, John’s research focused on the experiences of facilitators delivering the programme within prison settings and explored ways future delivery could be strengthened.

“Sport has the power to change lives,” he said.

“Every day we see the difference it can make for young people who need support, guidance and a second chance.

“It was rewarding to see my research recognised, but what matters most is that the findings may help improve the programme both for facilitators and for future participants.”

Returning to education as a mature student

John’s journey into higher education began following a conversation with a former PE teacher who encouraged him to explore coaching qualifications and further study.

He eventually chose Ulster University’s Sports Coaching and Performance course because of the institution’s reputation and opportunities within the sector.

“My PE teacher introduced me to the Sports Coaching and Performance course at Ulster University and explained how it could broaden my knowledge and understanding of sport,” he said.

“I was drawn to Ulster because of its strong reputation both locally and internationally.

“Returning to education as a mature student felt daunting, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

John also paid tribute to the support he received from staff throughout his studies, particularly Senior Lecturer Tandy Haughey.

“I have been blown away by the supportive and guided environment that Ulster University has offered me through the most difficult times in my life.

“I owe my lecturer, Tandy Haughey, a great deal. I don’t think I could have done this without her support.

“If you’re struggling with personal issues, family challenges or health problems, the staff are there to support you.

“They are academics, but they’re human too. They only want you to do well and champion you.”

An example of resilience

Senior Lecturer Tandy Haughey described John’s journey as an example of determination and perseverance in the face of extraordinary circumstances.

“John’s journey is a powerful example of resilience and perseverance; overcoming significant personal challenges, he returned to education as a mature student, achieved excellence through his applied practice, and became an invaluable mentor to our younger learners by bringing real-world experience into the classroom,” she said.

Following graduation, John plans to continue developing his career with the Irish Football Association while also exploring opportunities for further study.

For others considering university later in life, particularly mature students who may be uncertain about taking the first step, his message is simple.

“Go for it.

“The combination of academic learning and practical experience is invaluable.

“Ulster University provides such a supportive environment, and you’ll learn things that can genuinely transform your career and your confidence.

“Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help or support if you need it.”

John’s graduation is ultimately a story not simply of academic achievement, but of resilience in the face of unimaginable loss, and of finding purpose and hope even during life’s darkest chapters.