Using free time effectively can serve the same purpose. “Utilise it well,” says Karl Fitzpatrick, CEO and
former head of player welfare at Warrington Wolves. “Focus and put your energies into life after rugby as
there’s only so many hours in the day you can focus on your rehab and recovery.” Whether it’s putting
together a post-retirement business plan or dedicating that time to education, a new focus can keep an
athlete from unravelling.
The transition out of sport – whether forced or voluntary – is yet another unavoidable mental stresser. But,
as with injuries, this particular trigger can also be combatted with the right approach.
“I think sport has a role to get players into the sport safely and out of the sport safely,” says Ian Thomas,
director of development and welfare for the PCA. Alongside its workshops and transition talks, the PCA
provides a ‘personal development plan’ for its members – 80 per cent of whom currently subscribe to the
scheme. This outlines what players want to do after retirement, their transferrable skills and how they can
go about achieving their objectives.
“The largest thing we do is fund their ideas,” adds Thomas. “Our players can claim for up to around
£15,000 per year to towards their course fees and that in itself is an opportunity and support from the game
to plan for the future.”
Sport needs more of those brave figures like
Aaron Lennon to share their experiences and
challenge the stigma surrounding mental health
(Getty)Rugby union has adopted a similar approach. The RPA runs an annual ‘transition’ weekend for players to
discuss the emotional impact of retirement, to formulate plans for the future and to propagate a general
sense of togetherness at what can be a difficult time.
“The more we can do to try and create opportunities for players to connect with others that have gone
through or are going through that transition, it helps manage the whole process,” says Caroline Guthrie, a
senior personal development officer at the RPA.
In forcing their athletes to acknowledge life after sport – and to prepare for it – cricket and rugby union
have raised a conversation which, although by no means a panacea, can help to soften the blow of
retirement.
Although more and more support now exists courtesy of the relevant organisations and governing bodies,
not all athletes are prepared to access it. Out of fear of showing weakness or losing a spot in the starting XI,
many remain unwilling to reach out.
For some, it’s the responsibility of the individual to take that final step. “It’s like leading the horse to water