The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) is addressing the rising complexity of mental health issues among retired athletes by establishing a peer support network. This initiative comes in the wake of tragic incidents, including the suicides of twin brothers Troy and Adam Selwood, underscoring the challenges athletes face after their sporting careers. Although the network’s development began before these events, they highlighted the critical need for such support.
Prominent figures, including former Matildas player Elise Kellond-Knight, have voiced the emotional toll of adjusting to life beyond sports. Kellond-Knight described the Selwood tragedies as heartbreaking, reminding us how challenging it can be for athletes to transition away from a life they’ve known. The AIS has created an advisory committee, comprised of both current and former athletes like Olympic medalist Nina Kennedy and surfer Sally Fitzgibbons, to advocate for enhanced support for retirees.
Executive General Manager Matti Clements emphasised that many retired athletes express feelings of lost identity, complicating their emotional well-being. Participants in the peer support program noted that transitioning away from elite sports can lead to profound mental health issues, social isolation, and disrupted family dynamics. The new network aims to foster connection and shared experiences among retired athletes who often struggle to form new relationships outside their sporting circles.
Elise Kellond-Knight shared that in her own retirement journey, she effectively maintained her identity by continuing to engage in football through different avenues, such as playing in the Victorian Premier League and working as a commentator. However, she admitted to facing challenges related to maintaining her physical fitness without the structure of professional training.
The AIS will begin hosting virtual peer support sessions starting in July, alongside in-person gatherings in major cities for retired athletes. They encourage anyone who has competed at any high level to join the program, aiming to create a community where shared experiences can foster healing and growth. This network offers a unique opportunity for athletes to connect with others who have also navigated the difficult transition from competition to everyday life.
Drawing attention to current struggles in the athletic community, Kellond-Knight noted the pressures many athletes face while competing, particularly during high-stakes events like the Olympics. Her advice to current competitors is to maintain a balanced lifestyle amid their focused training, reminding them that their time in sport is finite.
For those in need of immediate support, Lifeline offers assistance at 13 11 14 or via lifeline.org.au. In emergencies, individuals are urged to call 000.