Australian Institute of Sport launches new initiative to help athletes tackle life after sport

Aware that many retiring athletes face challenges after their sporting careers ends, the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) has launched the ‘Retired Athlete Peer Support Network’.

Advising that the initiative is aims to help former athletes navigate life after sport, Federal Minister for Sport, Anika Wells advised "our athletes have so much to contribute beyond the podium and we are determined to see the sport sector and broader industries reap the benefits of their unique skill set.

“The Retired Athlete Peer Support Network is another example of our commitment to a culture of challenge and care which allows athletes to perform at their best and grow beyond their identity as 'sportspeople'."

According to Australian Sports Commission Executive General Manager of AIS Performance, Matti Clements strengthening support systems for alumni athletes is long overdue.

Clements advises "as a sector we do a good job of supporting athletes while competing, now we are supporting them throughout all the stages of their career.

“For many athletes, transitioning out of sport can be distressing, especially when it’s unexpected and can lead to complex mental health issues or an identity crisis.

“We owe it to these individuals who have dedicated their lives to representing Australia on the world stage to make the transition out of the limelight easier for them. That’s part of the Win Well ethos- supporting athletes’ holistic development.”

Backed by academics and psychologists, the Retired Athlete Peer Support Network is underpinned by Australia’s High Performance Strategy: Win Well which has a strong focus on supporting the entire athlete lifecycle.

It complements the existing suite of support services for retired athletes which includes access to free mental health services, career and financial support.

The next intake kicks off mid-July, with a handful of spots left for athletes to register.

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