The importance of athletes to acknowledge: Who am I out of sports

The end of an athletic career marks a significant transition that can challenge an athlete’s sense of self and well-being. Awareness and development of one's personality outside of sports are vital in mitigating the psychological impacts of this transition. By understanding the importance of a multi-faceted identity and employing effective coping strategies, athletes can navigate their post-sport life more successfully, finding new avenues for growth and satisfaction.

Athletic identity is defined by Brewer et al. (1993) as the degree to which an individual identifies with the athlete role. This identity, while beneficial in driving commitment and excellence in sports, can become problematic when it dominates a person's self-concept to the exclusion of other roles and interests. Giannone's research (2016) found that athletes with a high athletic identity often struggle with depressive symptoms and anxiety post-retirement. The sudden loss of their primary identity can lead to an identity crisis, especially for those whose self-worth is deeply entwined with their athletic achievements. Athletes may find themselves grappling with questions about who they are without their sport, which underscores the need for a broader self-concept that extends beyond athletic performance.

Giannone’s study highlights that athletes with a high athletic identity often resort to less effective coping mechanisms like venting and self-distraction. In contrast, those who engage in adaptive coping strategies, such as seeking social support and exploring new interests, tend to navigate this transition more successfully. Sports psychologists and counselors can help athletes explore and understand their identities, develop effective coping strategies, and plan for life after sports. Interpersonal therapy, which focuses on role transitions and managing interpersonal relationships, has been recommended as a particularly effective approach for helping athletes adjust to retirement. Encouraging athletes to pursue education, engage in various activities, and build relationships outside their sport can mitigate the impact of career termination.

To conclude, the importance of self-reflection and identity development both during and after a sports career cannot be overstated. Developing a strong sense of self outside of sports is not only beneficial for mental health but also essential for long-term satisfaction and well-being. As athletes confront and explore their identities beyond their athletic careers, they can find new avenues for personal growth and fulfillment, paving the way for a balanced and enriched life after sports.

 Literature: Zarina Alexandra Giannone, Life after sport: the relationship between athletic identity and mental health outcomes after sport retirement (2016). UBC . doi: 10.14288/1.0223581