Leadership Training for All Athletes
Posted on: 05 November 2018 by Emily Lake
“The corporate world is missing out on a wealth of wasted leadership talent because elite athletes are unaware of the skills they have developed during their careers, or do not have the confidence to step into a corporate environment,” says Leon Lloyd, CEO of athlete transition social enterprise, Switch the Play (StP).
Leon and his team at StP aim to change the landscape by developing an educational Masterclass that teaches elite athletes to identify the fundamental attributes of leadership they possess, develop those they don’t and demystify the boardroom environment.
As part of its research process, Switch the Play (StP) is asking athletes at all stages of their career to complete a quick survey. StP will use results to identify where support and education is needed.
Leon, CEO of StP and author of Life after Sport: Boot Room to Boardroom explains, “The confidence an athlete possesses in the Club environment doesn’t always naturally translate to the corporate environment and this is deterring many from pursuing careers in business.
“By undertaking this research, we will gain a better understanding of where the gaps are in knowledge and support for this type of training across sports. Our aim is to create a Masterclass that will empower athletes to pursue a sustainable career either while still competing or after.
“Too often, athletes don’t realise that the principles for success can be applied to both sport and business. Instead, their skills lay dormant because of a lack of knowledge and confidence.
“At StP we have seen the success athletes achieve when they receive the right guidance and support with many transitioning out of sport into fulfilling careers in business or even running their own companies. We want to see more athletes achieving a positive transition. The development of this Masterclass will go some way to helping Clubs to better support their athletes in preparing for their life outside of sport.”
For more information about Switch the Play email emily@switchtheplay.com.