Anonymous Author
Training for four hours each day, practicing six times a week, eating and sleeping to maximize performance - the term student-athlete quickly morphs into athlete-student. A recent study by the NCAA found that post-athletics, while 56% of athletes reported that they were thriving, 44% of athletes were left struggling to find purpose.
As a high school athlete who participates in the sport of rowing, I have witnessed countless individuals struggling to separate their identities from their sport. Rowing is a niche equivalency sport, as such most rowers regardless of speed can get recruited to row in college. Next, it is important to note that rowing is a purely physical sport (similar to track and swimming, very physical metrics-based) and athletes are particularly vulnerable to burnout, especially if they have been rowing for numerous years.
By their senior year, students may be driven by competitiveness rather than genuine enjoyment of the sport. Some students have expressed their desire to quit the sport due to the mental challenges it presents. If young athlete’s identity revolves around their sport, they can get so caught up in recruitment they miss out on higher education opportunities that best align with their needs.
My entire life and mental health revolved around my sport up until recently. When I became injured and had no clear recovery trajectory, I was forced to open my mind to other plans that did not entail engaging in my sport in college. I joined a variety of clubs and organizations and discovered my interest in sociology, psychology, and behavioral wellness. Moreover, I self-reflected and learned about my strengths, weaknesses, and values, allowing me to strive for personal growth. I am aware that my injury and health issues could prevent me from engaging in my sport in college, so I have opened my mind and developed passions outside of the sport. I was fearful that without a sport I would be unable to achieve a healthy state of mind. Nevertheless, finding my purpose outside rowing allowed me to appreciate my body, embrace difficult workouts, and find joy in the sport.
I was able to redefine my identity by first acknowledging ‘the end’. Ultimately, despite how far you go in competitive athletics it will end, whether you play at the high school level or go to the Olympics. Your career could end by injury, failure to make the next level, or simply a shift in priorities. After acknowledging that your athletic career will end, you can brainstorm how you will keep connected to athletics after the ‘loss’ of your sport. For some retired student-athletes that may mean aspiring to compete in another different athletic endeavor such as running a marathon, completing a triathlon, etc. Others may value moving their body less competitively and will set aside time each day to be active. Lastly, some retired student-athletes who have both a love for their sport and aspirations to make a positive impact on others may consider coaching.
Next, it is important to pay attention to other aspects of your life. Strive to not neglect your studies, family and friends in pursuit of a sport; knowing that you have the ability to excel in other aspects of your life builds intrinsic confidence and less reliance on your sport. In tandem with not neglecting other aspects of your life, embrace change. If you have the opportunity to try something new, expand your network and embrace these opportunities wholeheartedly.
Ultimately, when our identity is consumed by sports our mental health may be at risk. On some teams mental health conversations are taboo, and coaches may expect their athletes to prioritize their sport over everything. This culture contributes to an increased risk for depression and anxiety while also shaping a team perspective that lacks empathy. In an athletic setting, we are often encouraged to only focus on our sports. Nevertheless, if you don’t take the time to develop your identity outside of sports, an injury or the inevitable end of your sports career can derail your life.
You are more than your sport, and you are not alone.
