The athlete’s career isn’t as long as it may seem: one day, you’re loved by fans, the manager considers you as a key player, and money is flowing. But then you turn 30 years before you know it, there’s a more talented and promising youngster in the club who you need to for the spot with, and that injury still hinders you from performing to the maximum of your capabilities. Some players are smart enough to start using their enormous salaries to invest like ex-Barcelona player Martin Braithwaite did. He became the richest one in the club at some point, thanks to his business endeavours. Others, though, spend everything on riches and understand that there’s nothing left only at the end of their career.
Although many of the older ones perform worse, they still have a lot of experience to add to the team – that’s what any seasoned bettor knows when they place a wager at trusted mobile apps, like 1x, But there are a lot of different athletes who never had access to the fortunes that star players could afford, and when they finished playing had to think of another job. Here are some interesting options you could try.
Sports data analytics: Numbers that count
In an era where big data rules, sports data analytics has become a goldmine of opportunity. Your ability to read the game and understand tactical nuances can be gold in this industry. As a former athlete, you have a unique insight into how data can be translated into action on the field.
Imagine using your experience to help teams optimise their performance through advanced statistics and predictive models. You could work on anything from talent recruitment to in-game strategies. Your insights can be the difference between victory and defeat, just from the other side of the screen.
Athlete Branding: Personal legend lives on
Your career has given you a name. Now it’s time to turn that name into a brand. Athlete branding is about creating an identity that goes beyond sport. It’s a chance to use your platform to influence and inspire.
In this role, you can help current and future athletes navigate the complex world of social media, sponsorships and public appearances. Your experience in press handling and fan engagement is invaluable here. You can guide others through the pitfalls you may have experienced and help them build a sustainable career both on and off the field.
Sport psychology: Understanding the mind game
Sports taught you a lot about mental struggles and how to overcome them, so now you can share this knowledge. Sport psychology has become more and more popular and offers a lot of opportunities for those who can utilize their experience in work.
Of course, to pursue this path, you need to supplement your athletic experience with formal training. But your practical insight into the athlete’s mind is invaluable. You can help athletes overcome performance anxiety, deal with defeat and optimize their mental state for peak performance. Your own journey through the ups and downs of sport gives you a unique understanding that can significantly enrich the field.
Sports Diplomacy: Building bridges through sport
Sport has a unique ability to unite people across cultural and political boundaries. Sports diplomacy harnesses this power to promote international understanding and co-operation. As a former athlete, you can play an important role in using sport as a tool for peace and development.
In this role, you could work with international organisations or governments to develop programmes that use sport to tackle social issues or promote cultural exchange. Your experience representing your country or team at an international level will give you a valuable understanding of the unifying power of sport.
Next steps: A new career awaits
Don’t be scared that your name and career path that you chose defines who you are, because it never does. Professional sports shows that background can be a big influence and a solid foundation for a future choice, but what matters is your personal decision and desire.
Yes, you can take an easy path and become a manager or a commentator, because many tried. However, consider at least exploring other options and maybe you’ll find something that will become a lifelong endeavor for you. Hone new skills, experiment with an athletic experience and good luck in the new phase of your life.
