Transitions in life are difficult, even when they are expected. When the game is over for a pro athlete, that transition to life after sports can be extremely brutal and is reported to feel more like death. Up to this point, a pro athlete has experienced privileges, applause, and stardom that have shaped his identify for years. It has been the only role in his life that has given him meaning, structure and purpose. Now, often at a young age, many pro athletes face a significant transition into “retirement” that typically does not affect the average person for many years. The challenging transition pro athletes face when the game is over can begin for many expected and unexpected reasons.
The Top 3 Reasons Pro Athletes may begin their transition to life after sports:
- The transition may begin when a pro athlete is deselected or “released” from a team
- The pro athlete may suffer years of mounting injuries or a career ending one
- The pro athlete may be “too old” in the opinion of team management and traded out for younger stock that may yield more production. It has been reported that the oldest NFL team is less than 28 years old (Coakley, 2008). Coakley also found that professional sport opportunities, regardless of race and ethnicity, are short-term, averaging 3 to 7 years in team sports and 3 to 12 years for individual sports. This means that pro athletes are forced to transition into retirement from their sport at a very early age, which may create many challenges individually and for their families.
When the game is over, transition challenges include:
- Denial– Not being able to face the reality that the game is over and your life will be different.
- Drinking and Drug Use– Pro athletes may turn to alcohol, prescription and illegal drugs for emotional relief. Often this is an existing problem that becomes bigger during retirement.
- Divorce – Statistics are staggering! It is reported that HALF of NFL players divorce within the first year of retirement. Marriage therapy can be a helpful resource for pro athletes and their wives.
- Depression – Although the stress may lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, statistics are low that pro athletes seek or are provided with mental health therapy during the transition.
- Isolation– The pro athlete may feel “alone,” no longer part of a team. Anger and bitterness, lack of structure, and financial loss may increase the likelihood of isolation.
Come back Monday for tips to avoid or minimize these transition challenges.
Porsha Williams, LAMFT
Pwilliams@ GROWcounseling.com
