A Review on Transitional Implications for Retiring Elite Athletes: What Happens When the Spotlight Dims?

Jennifer L. Smith, Alexandra McManus

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    Abstract

    The purpose of this investigation was to examine the factors affecting an elite athlete’s transition from the sports environment, and identify opportunities for interventions to facilitate a positive transition into post-sports life. Articles were identified through a systematic keyword and database search and were examined using the components of Schlossberg’s Model of Human Adaptation to Transition (characteristics of the transition, the individual and the pre and post environment). The greatest contributors to a difficult transition include involuntary retirement (injury or deselection), a strong, exclusive athletic identity, and lack of pre-retirement planning and support services. However, gaps exist in the scope of programs to address broader adaptation issues. Greater emphasis should be directed towards the psychological, social and physical transitions experienced by elite athletes prior to and after retirement to ensure a positive adaptation into post-sports life.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)45-49
    JournalThe Open Sports Sciences Journal
    Volume1
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2 Jan 2009

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