Former All White’s CRAZY Stories from Alcohol-Fuelled Career

Dom Harvey

Episode Description

Former All Whites goalkeeper Michael Utting sits down with Dom for what could be his most honest interview ever.

From being drunk while representing New Zealand on the world stage to rebuilding his life in sobriety, Mike opens up about the highs, the deep lows, and what redemption really looks like.

Michael reflects on:

Playing against Thierry Henry and Ronaldinho

Getting kicked out of the All Whites after a drunken bender

His battle with alcoholism and multiple relapses

The moment he realised he needed to change - and how he stayed sober

Working with special needs kids and rediscovering purpose

Whether you're a football fan, someone who's faced addiction, or just love a brutally honest story - this one hits hard. ***

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*** Chapters

0:00 – Welcome & why Michael wanted to speak out now 2:40 – Growing up in Wellington & discovering sport 6:50 – Becoming a goalkeeper and the early football years 11:20 – Playing professionally in Australia and South Africa 20:30 – The car crash that broke his neck (and the comeback story) 27:50 – Representing New Zealand at the Confederations Cup 35:00 – Alcohol, addiction & self-destruction 48:00 – Rock bottom moments and fighting back to sobriety 1:02:00 – Working with special-needs kids & finding purpose 1:21:00 – Addressing the media scandals and his side of the story 1:32:00 – Regret, redemption & life lessons 1:47:00 – Sobriety, peace & what really matters now

Brief Summary

Michael Aring discusses his sports career, addiction struggles, health issues, and the impact of bad press on his life.

Key points

  • Life-Changing Heart Attack. Michael recounts the harrowing experience of his heart attack and the aftermath.
  • Induction into Hall of Fame. Michael reflects on his induction into the Wellington Football Hall of Fame and its significance.
  • A Life-Changing Injury. Michael reflects on the car crash that nearly ended his career, but ultimately led to his comeback.
  • A New Beginning. Michael's journey back to football culminates in a triumphant return to the field.
  • Valuing Memories Over Money. Reflecting on the importance of memories from playing at the world stage over monetary rewards.
  • Life After Alcohol. Discussing the impact of sobriety on life and mental health.

Ask about Dom Harvey

Episode highlights

Tension

60/ 100Some tension

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