What happens when the race is run, and the spotlight dims? The transition from the track to the real world is a difficult battle for many athletes. Stripped of their routine and identity, they face a future where medals no longer define them. How do they channel years of discipline and dedication into a new path? Sekou Clarke, a former track and field star, recently shared his insights, shedding light on this overlooked yet critical phase of an athlete’s life. Could it be that the real race begins after the finish line?

In a recent episode of “Ready Set Go” former athlete Sekou Clarke shared the post-track life of an athlete. “The biggest part for us is after track,” Clarke said passionately. “A lot of agents don’t talk to their athletes about after track. It pains me when I see an athlete who was a medalist, someone doing extremely well, and post-track life isn’t anywhere close to what you would expect.” According to Clarke, this reality is rooted in a gap in the mindset and self-confidence among athletes.

Athletes often spend decades identifying solely as competitors. They build reputations for their speed, strength, and accolades. However, stepping into the corporate world or entrepreneurship requires them to redefine themselves. “Athletes don’t realize,” Clarke explained, “that all those skills like discipline, hunger, drive, consistency in habits are transferable. The average person cannot do what an athlete does.” 

Clarke spoke with visible pain as he described seeing former athletes struggle in unsatisfying jobs. “It saddens me when I see an athlete that was a medalist, doing extremely well, and post-track, it’s not anywhere close to what you would expect,” he admitted. Despite their talent and drive, many athletes settle for roles far below their qualifications, working alongside individuals who lack similar experience and dedication. Moreover, Clarke himself had an anecdote to share.

Sekou Clarke recalled his own experience of venturing into business consulting. “I had an interview at BCG, and I was in a room full of Harvard and Yale graduates,” he recalled. “He added that in his mind he was like, “Yo, these guys can’t beat me. That mindset is what carried me. Athletes need to transfer that same mindset into their post-collegiate lives.” However, not all athletes manage to make this leap. For instance, numerous Olympic medalists have struggled post-retirement, including those who ended up facing financial hardship or battling mental health challenges because they couldn’t find their footing in life without sports. These stories underscore the urgent need for better preparation and support systems.

The shadow of glory when the cheers fade

Retired athletes often struggle to adapt to life beyond their sport. While some athletes earn millions during their careers, poor financial planning, exploitation by agents, and excessive spending habits can leave them broke. Former boxing champion Mike Tyson, for instance, earned over $300 million during his career but declared bankruptcy in 2003. Similarly, NFL players like Terrell Owens can be another example.

The psychological side of retirement can be devastating as well. Athletes are conditioned to live for the next game, the next season, or the next medal. When that structure disappears, depression and anxiety can take hold. The sense of losing purpose can push some to destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, reckless spending, or even self-harm. The tragic story of NFL legend Junior Seau is a stark example. After retiring, Seau struggled with depression and the lingering effects of concussions sustained during his career. His death by suicide in 2012 shocked the sports world and highlighted the mental health crisis facing retired athletes.

However, to overcome this Clarke emphasized that preparation must start while athletes are still competing. He instructed athletes to use their transferable skills and recognize their worth. “You didn’t accept mediocrity on the track, so why accept it off the track?” he asked. For many, the struggle doesn’t lie in a lack of opportunity but in doubting their ability to succeed in other areas.”It’s not about me being fast and winning medals,” Clarke said of his journey. “It’s about what got me to win medals: discipline, hunger, drive, and fortitude. Those things can make anyone successful in almost any venue they walk into.” Clarke also stressed the importance of breaking free from the narrow identity of being a competitor.

 Sekou Clarke’s message is clear and loud that the finish line isn’t the end. It’s just a new beginning. The skills that make athletes great on the track can make them equally great in life. Have you seen athletes who’ve successfully navigated life after sports, or do you think more needs to be done to help them prepare? Share your views in the comments below!