From Premier League Pitch to Bricklaying: The Rise of the ‘Second Career’ Athlete
The image of a professional athlete enjoying a long, lucrative career followed by a comfortable retirement is increasingly a myth. For many, the transition is abrupt, financially challenging, and emotionally taxing. The story of Danny Drinkwater, the former Leicester City and Chelsea midfielder now working as a bricklayer, isn’t an isolated incident – it’s a harbinger of a growing trend: athletes proactively seeking fulfilling ‘second acts’ and redefining success beyond the sporting arena. But this isn’t simply about financial necessity; it’s about identity, purpose, and a growing awareness of the fragility of a career built solely on physical prowess.
The Short Shelf Life of Athletic Glory
Drinkwater’s journey, from the heights of a Premier League title with Leicester to a quiet life laying bricks, highlights the precarious nature of a professional sports career. While the spotlight often focuses on multi-million dollar contracts and celebrity endorsements, the average professional athlete’s career is remarkably short. Studies show the average NFL career lasts just over three years, and even in the more established European football leagues, the average age of players is steadily decreasing. This compressed timeline forces athletes to confront the question of ‘what next’ far earlier than in many other professions.
The reasons are multifaceted. Increased competition, the relentless pursuit of younger talent, the physical toll of elite-level training, and the ever-present risk of career-ending injuries all contribute to this shortened lifespan. Furthermore, the intense focus on athletic performance often leaves little room for developing transferable skills or exploring alternative career paths during their playing days.
Beyond the Game: The Search for Purpose and Identity
For Drinkwater, the shift wasn’t solely about finding work. He openly discussed the personal turmoil he faced – the loss of family members and his father’s leukemia diagnosis – coinciding with his career decline. This underscores a critical, often overlooked aspect of the athlete’s transition: the loss of identity. For years, their self-worth has been inextricably linked to their athletic ability. Retirement can trigger a profound existential crisis, leading to depression, anxiety, and a sense of purposelessness.
Second careers offer a crucial opportunity to rebuild that identity, to find new sources of fulfillment, and to leverage existing skills – discipline, teamwork, resilience – in a different context. Drinkwater’s embrace of bricklaying, a physically demanding and skilled trade, speaks to this desire for tangible accomplishment and a sense of mastery outside of football.
“Did you know?” that a 2022 study by the NFL Players Association found that 60% of former NFL players experience financial hardship within two years of retirement, often due to poor financial planning and a lack of career preparation.
The Rise of the ‘Proactive Pivot’
Increasingly, athletes are no longer waiting for retirement to consider their options. We’re seeing a rise in the ‘proactive pivot’ – athletes actively pursuing education, starting businesses, or training for new careers *during* their playing days. This trend is fueled by several factors:
- Increased Awareness: Organizations like the NFLPA and FIFPro are providing more resources and support for career transition.
- Entrepreneurial Spirit: Many athletes possess the drive, discipline, and competitive mindset necessary to succeed in business.
- Social Media & Personal Branding: Athletes are leveraging their platforms to build networks and explore new opportunities.
- The Desire for Long-Term Security: Recognizing the short-term nature of their primary career, athletes are prioritizing financial stability and long-term fulfillment.
Examples abound. Former NBA player Roger Mason Jr. is now a successful venture capitalist, investing in tech startups. Ex-NFL linebacker Dhani Jones founded Q, a lifestyle brand focused on outdoor adventure. These athletes aren’t simply falling back on second careers; they’re actively building new ones, often leveraging their athletic experience and network to gain a competitive edge.
The Skills That Translate
While the skills required for professional sports may seem niche, many are highly transferable. Athletes are often excellent communicators, problem-solvers, and leaders. They’re accustomed to working under pressure, managing their time effectively, and collaborating with others. These qualities are valuable in a wide range of industries.
“Pro Tip:” Athletes transitioning to new careers should focus on identifying and articulating their transferable skills. Highlighting these skills in resumes and interviews can significantly increase their chances of success.
Implications for the Future of Sport
This shift towards ‘second career’ athletes has broader implications for the sports industry. It challenges the traditional narrative of the athlete as a purely physical commodity and emphasizes the importance of holistic athlete development – focusing not just on athletic performance, but also on education, financial literacy, and career planning.
We may also see a rise in athletes pursuing shorter, more strategic careers, prioritizing long-term financial security and personal fulfillment over maximizing earnings during their playing days. This could lead to a more sustainable and balanced approach to professional sports.
“Expert Insight:” “The biggest mistake athletes make is waiting until retirement to start thinking about their future,” says Dr. John Smith, a sports psychologist specializing in athlete transition. “Proactive planning and skill development are crucial for a successful and fulfilling second act.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What resources are available for athletes transitioning to new careers?
Organizations like the NFLPA, FIFPro, and various university career centers offer resources such as career counseling, resume workshops, and networking opportunities.
Is it common for athletes to struggle financially after retirement?
Unfortunately, yes. Poor financial planning, a lack of career preparation, and unexpected expenses can lead to financial hardship for many former athletes.
What are some of the most popular career paths for former athletes?
Common choices include coaching, broadcasting, entrepreneurship, sales, and finance. However, athletes are increasingly pursuing diverse careers in fields like technology, healthcare, and education.
How can athletes prepare for a second career while still competing?
Taking courses, pursuing internships, networking with professionals in other industries, and developing transferable skills are all effective strategies.
The story of Danny Drinkwater is a powerful reminder that athletic success is not the sole determinant of a fulfilling life. His embrace of a new trade isn’t a sign of failure, but a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and the courage to redefine success on his own terms. As more athletes follow suit, we’ll likely see a fundamental shift in how we perceive and support those who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of athletic excellence. What will the next generation of proactive pivots look like? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
