A developmental perspective on transitions faced by athletes

Abstract

507 To reach and to remain at the elite level in competitive sport require athletes—and those around them—to “invest” at different levels (e.g., physical, social, financial) during a long period of time. The termination of such a high-level athletic career can, therefore, be an emotional experience, not only for the athletes themselves but also for those in their close environment (e.g., parents, children, friends). Such a career end will also generate attention from the press, as reflected in these press clippings: