Behind the Badge: From Rugby League to the Front Door at Fibre, Leeds

February 16, 2026
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Meet one of our Head Door Supervisors who’s recently stepped into a leading role at one of the biggest nighttime venues in our hometown of Leeds – Fibre. His journey into the security industry is anything but typical, shaped by professional sport, years in the motor trade, and a desire for meaningful, people‑focused work.

Finding Professional Security

He joined Professional Security in July 2024, after spotting a vacancy on the GuardPass app for a role closer to home in Huddersfield. Already working within the security industry in close protection, he was looking for something that would complement that work while offering a more social side of the industry.

“I wanted something that balanced what I was already doing – still professional, but more people-facing and social.”

Life Before Security

Before stepping into security, his career path took a few unexpected turns. During college, he signed a professional rugby league contract with his hometown club, the Huddersfield Giants. Unfortunately, injury brought that chapter to an early end.

After rugby, he transitioned into the motor trade, starting as a car salesman and steadily working his way up over 15 years to become a General Sales Manager. The experience gave him strong leadership skills, resilience, and the ability to manage high-pressure situations – all of which now translate seamlessly into his role on the doors.

Why Security?

The move into security was driven by a desire for change.

“I wanted to do something I enjoyed, not just something I knew. I also wanted more flexibility in when I worked.”

That mix of variety, challenge, and adaptability is what continues to motivate him today.

Breaking the Stereotypes

One of the biggest misconceptions about working in security is the idea that door staff are there for the image or the authority.

“People think we’re here because we like throwing people out or having a big ego because we’ve ‘got the badge’. In reality, we’re there to help. Every action we take is for a reason.”

It’s a role rooted in responsibility, decision-making, and keeping people safe – often behind the scenes.

Moments That Matter

When asked about a time he’s helped prevent an incident or supported someone in need, he explains that it’s difficult to pick just one – because it happens every shift.

All team members are First aid trained and that training is used regularly. One moment that stands out took place at a venue he wasn’t even working for at the time, where he assisted an unconscious female for 15 minutes until an ambulance arrived.

“Later finding out she was okay made it feel like all the training was worth it, just for that.”

Advice for Anyone Considering Security

His advice is honest and grounded in experience:

Simon George - Head Door Supervisor - Fibre

“Think about it seriously. A lot of people say they fancy having a go, but there’s more to it than that. It’s challenging, long shifts, a lot of standing, a lot of patience – and there’s always a safety risk to yourself and your colleagues.”

Security isn’t something you simply try out – it’s a role that demands commitment, awareness, and professionalism.

If Not Security…

If he weren’t working in security, the answer is refreshingly light-hearted.

“If I was younger with no family, I’d love to travel to less‑visited places and post content as I went – people seem to make a living from that now. Or maybe write and star in High School Musical 4 and cast myself as an older Troy Bolton.”

From professional sport to leading the front line at one of Leeds’ most iconic venues, his story is a reminder that security professionals bring diverse backgrounds, real-world experience, and a genuine commitment to keeping people safe – night after night.