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Athlete Personal Development

Retired Athlete Peer Support Network

A welcoming space where former athletes from different sports can come together to connect, share experiences and help each other navigate life after sport.

Life after sport can be challenging for retired athletes.

It can lead to feeling isolated, disconnected or uncertain about how to harness a wealth of experience.

We want to change this as we believe it’s crucial to support athletes in all stages of life and ensure their connection, knowledge and past experiences in sport are nurtured.

The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) is proud to launch the nation’s first ever peer-support network for retired athletes.

The network aims to create a welcoming space where former athletes from different sports can come together to connect, share experiences and help each other navigate life after sport.

Participants will lead the conversation and tackle topics or issues that matter most to them.

The AIS will host several intakes throughout the year which will run in six-week blocks. There will also be opportunities to meet face-to-face at events around the country.

The launch of this network follows extensive research and consultation with leading psychologists, coaches and athletes who see real value in connecting retired athletes.

So whether it’s been 12 months or 12 years since you last competed, we encourage all alumni athletes to register their details.

This work underpins the Australian sport sector’s pledge to ‘Win Well’ which is all about ensuring we support athletes in all aspects and stages of their life.

Important dates

  • First intake
    mid-May
  • Second intake
    mid-July
  • Third intake
    mid-October

Apply now

Benefits

  • Offers a sense of community and belonging
  • Provides a safe, supportive space to share experiences
  • Helps you reconnect with sport in a positive way
  • Offers a networking opportunity

Eligibility

  • You are a retired athlete who was categorised and /or represented Australia in a senior team at a World Championship, Paralympic, Olympic or Commonwealth Games for a recognised funded sport.
  • You are a retired Para athlete competition partner (e.g. sighted pilot, boccia director, alpine ski/running guide).
  • You can be located anywhere in the world!

Contact

For more information please email: kerina.alter@ausport.gov.au

Testimonies

27 former athletes undertook the pilot program with several claiming the experience was ‘transformational.’ Here’s what they had to say:

“I am now a completely different person. I’m at peace with everything and now thanks to some great advice from the group I am taking steps towards my career path.”
“Being part of this network has helped me feel less alone in my transition out of elite sport. Being able to share my experience with others who understand this journey has helped me process all the difficult emotions that arise from such a big change.”
“It’s not an easy path once you leave sport but when you feel the support around you it makes it that much easier.”
“This network has provided valuable support and inspiration for life after sport.”
“It felt good to know there are people involved in sport in Australia who are paying attention to athletes wellbeing, we’re not just machines that are replaceable.”
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