By Constantinos Massonos, Contributor
Building Your Athlete Support Team for Success
Gaining elite athlete status and staying in top form requires hours of intense mental and physical training. Training takes up most of your day, leaving little time for everyday chores. You need a team to support you on your journey to excellence.
The choices you make during your career will affect your life after sports, financially and otherwise. You shouldn’t make these decisions alone.
Why a Support Team is Essential
The key to success is surrounding yourself with people who can advise you on sports, business, and personal finance. This small group of professionals guides your decision-making and provides critical input.
Your team offers objective and unbiased perspectives you might miss. That’s why family and friends shouldn’t be part of your core team.
Experts bring knowledge that helps you avoid mistakes and spot opportunities. Adding new professionals to your circle can expand your network and increase your influence.
Who Should Be on Your Team?
You likely already have some advisors, such as an agent, lawyer, or accountant. To find others, first identify your goals.
For example, if you want to invest in real estate, you need a realtor or mortgage expert. Evaluate your needs across different areas and start building a team of experts to assist both on and off the field.
Key Team Members and Their Roles
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Coach: Your most important team member. A good coach helps improve your technique, mentors you, pushes your limits, and supports your mental and physical strength.
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Financial Advisor: Helps you achieve financial goals and encourages ongoing financial education.
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Lawyer: Assists with contracts and legal issues. Choose specialists based on your current needs.
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Insurance Agent: Don’t choose based solely on price. Pick a reputable company offering comprehensive coverage.
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Tax Planner: Helps you keep more of your earnings by navigating complex tax laws.
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Sports Scientist: Works with your coach to monitor your body’s response and design training that improves performance and reduces injury risk.
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Nutritionist: Creates diets that improve health and optimize performance.
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Sports Psychologist: Uses mental strategies to help you overcome stress and pressure, achieving your full potential.
Building and Maintaining Your Team
Start with your current network. Referrals are often the best way to find good fits.
Meet potential advisors, explain your support needs, and trust your instincts. Not everyone will join, but those who do deserve professionalism and care.
Don’t fear change—new advisors may join while others leave over time.
Finally, remember that no one will care more than you about your money. Your financial decisions are ultimately your own. Your advisors just serve the purpose of informing you about all your available options. You can contact us at [email protected] for assistance in setting up a dream team, that will give you the tools as well as the peace of mind you need to focus on your athletic miracles.