What is athletic identity & why it matters

Athletic identity refers to the degree to which an individual identifies with the role of an athlete. It is a multidimensional construct that encompasses one's attitudes, beliefs, values, and behaviours related to sports and physical activity. For athletes, their athletic identity can be a powerful force in shaping their sense of self and providing a source of motivation, purpose, and satisfaction.

However, athletic identity can also have negative consequences for athletes when they experience a transition or retirement from sport. For many athletes, the end of their athletic careers can be a challenging and emotional time, as they are forced to confront the loss of their athletic identity and the sense of self that it provides. This loss can lead to a range of psychological and emotional difficulties, including depression, anxiety, loss of self-esteem, and a sense of purposelessness.

It is therefore crucial for athletes to consider their athletic identity as they prepare for transition and retirement from sport. By doing so, they can develop a more nuanced and flexible sense of self that can support their well-being and resilience during this challenging time. Here are three key reasons why athletes should consider their athletic identity in this context:

1. Athletic identity can shape how athletes approach transition and retirement. When athletes have a strong athletic identity, they may be more resistant to the idea of retirement and more likely to delay making plans for their post-athletic careers. This can lead to difficulties later on when they are forced to confront the reality of retirement and the need to transition to a new identity. By considering their athletic identity and the potential challenges of retirement, athletes can better prepare for this transition and develop a more proactive approach to planning for their post-athletic lives.
   
   

2. Athletic identity can impact athletes' mental health and well-being. When athletes are unable to transition successfully from sport to other aspects of their lives, they may experience a range of negative psychological and emotional consequences. These can include depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and a sense of purposelessness. By understanding the role that their athletic identity plays in their sense of self and well-being, athletes can develop strategies for coping with the challenges of retirement and transitioning to a new identity.
   
   

3. Athletic identity can influence athletes' post-athletic careers. When athletes have a strong athletic identity, they may be more likely to pursue careers that are related to sport or physical activity, rather than exploring other options. While this can be a positive choice for some athletes, it can also limit their opportunities and leave them vulnerable to career transitions later on. By considering their athletic identity and exploring a range of post-athletic career options, athletes can make more informed and flexible choices about their future.

So, what can athletes do to consider their athletic identity as they prepare for transition and retirement from sport? Here are a few suggestions:

• Reflect on your values and goals beyond sport. What other aspects of your life are important to you? What are your long-term goals? By identifying your values and goals beyond sport, you can begin to develop a more complex and flexible sense of self that can support you through the transition to retirement.
  
  

• Seek out support from other athletes who have gone through the transition to retirement. Connecting with other athletes who have experienced the challenges of retirement can be a valuable source of support and guidance. Consider reaching out to former teammates, coaches, or athletes in your community.
  
  

• Explore a range of post-athletic career options.
  
  

• Don't limit yourself to careers that are related to sports or physical activity. Consider a range of options and explore your interests and skills in other areas. This can help you develop a more diverse and flexible sense of self that can support you through the transition to retirement.

Further reading

• Life After Professional Sport
• Forbes: Professional Sports & Career Transitions
• Career Transitions: When All You Have Is Your Sport