When athletes describe retirement from sport, they often describe feelings of loss and confusion. This is closely linked to the athletic identity they have created over the course of their career.
Grief, denial and acceptance are all part of the process of retirement from sport, however sometimes dependant on whether the athlete chose to retire at a certain point (preferable) or due to injury, age or overall lack of selection.
Having the right coping strategies as well as preparation for life after sport is key to a mentally healthy next step in a former athletes journey of life.