From Athlete to Business Professional: My Playbook for Transitioning from Sports to Corporate Life

Introduction

?“Sports teaches you character, it teaches you to play by the rules, it teaches you to know what it feels like to win and lose – it teaches you about life.” — Billie Jean King

As a former professional athlete with over nine years of experience, I’ve seen how character can be the difference maker—in securing a contract, being a trusted teammate, or even shaping the length of a career.

My transition from the soccer field, to the classroom as an MBA student, and now to the office as a People Consultant at 安永 , has consistently reinforced one thing: while knowledge and technical skills can be taught, the unique traits developed as an elite athlete—resilience, teamwork, discipline—are invaluable in the corporate world.

This article reflects on my journey and lessons learned, with the hope of offering my “playbook” to fellow athletes navigating the transition into business.

1. The Reality of Life After Sports

Life after sports is an emotional rollercoaster. For those retiring on their own terms, there’s pride in achieving a career experienced by less than 1% of the population. For others, it may come with uncertainty and self-doubt.

You’re left asking: What’s next? Am I qualified? How do I recreate the sense of purpose I found as an athlete?

Through conversations with fellow athletes, I’ve learned these feelings are normal. While well-meaning comments like, “You have so many transferable skills,” can be encouraging, they can also feel overwhelming. Identifying and adapting those skills to an entirely different environment takes effort and courage.

For me, the key to a smoother transition began with a supportive first role—a ticket sales representative for my last professional organization, Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG) . Talking sports with fans and season ticket holders felt natural, and I had incredible mentors who encouraged my creativity and helped me learn the unspoken rules of corporate life. However, I realized there were gaps in my business knowledge.

Cue the decision to go back to school…

2. Leveraging an MBA to Bridge the Gap

Pursuing an MBA at the Alberta School of Business, University of Alberta was one of the most challenging experiences of my life (yes, even harder than preseason fitness!). After over a decade away from school, tackling the GMAT and adjusting to academic life was daunting.

The MBA became a bridge, allowing me to identify, refine, and build on the skills I’d developed as an athlete. It strengthened my problem-solving abilities, polished my communication and presentation skills, and deepened my understanding of business fundamentals.

The rigorous workload also tested my work ethic, teamwork, and time management skills in new ways. Most importantly, the MBA reminded me of the value of being a "rookie" again—learning financial literacy, statistics, and other new skills required me to seek help and embrace discomfort.

To my fellow athletes: you don’t need an MBA to transition, but you do need to take inventory of your skills and adapt them to fit new environments.

3. Transitioning to People Consulting at EY

Securing an internship with EY during my MBA was a game-changer. With mentorship from leaders like Juliet Nicol and an incredible team, I had the opportunity to combine the skills honed through athletics with a solid business foundation.

Working in People Consulting—helping organizations tackle challenges like employee engagement, workforce management, and change management—has been both demanding and rewarding. The fast-paced, team-oriented environment felt familiar, yet also pushes me to grow beyond my comfort zone.

4. Lessons Learned and Advice for Fellow Athletes

Transitioning from sports has been humbling, but also deeply fulfilling. There were many times when I doubted my ability to redefine myself; even now, I sometimes feel the weight of imposter syndrome creeping back in. While the path has been challenging, I am forever grateful for the family, friends, and colleagues that I have leaned on along the way. With their support, here are a few lessons I’ve learned:

• “Your past as an athlete is a superpower—use it” - Antoine Mindjimba . Leverage the resilience, discipline, and teamwork that set you apart.
• Build your support network. Surround yourself with people who understand and uplift you.
• Engage with your community. Seek opportunities to learn, whether it’s volunteering, networking, or pursuing further education.
• You belong at the table. Self-doubt is normal, but remember the unique value you bring.
• Lean into discomfort. Growth happens in uncomfortable spaces.
• Seek mentorship and ask for help. It’s okay to be a rookie again.
• Enjoy the process! You may not see it yet, but one day you will look back and realize how far you’ve come.

5. Closing Thoughts

Transitions are never easy, but they’re an opportunity to redefine yourself. There will be setbacks and moments of doubt, but perseverance—just like in sport—will carry you through. There is no such thing as a wasted rep!

To fellow athletes navigating this journey, know you’re not alone. There’s a community ready to support you. If this article resonates with you, or if you’d like to share your story, feel free to connect. Remember: teamwork is everything, both on and off the field.

Helpful Resources:

? Major League Soccer – League Access Program: An initiative designed to support current and former players in exploring career opportunities beyond their playing days. (Cc: Taylor Wells , Chidozie Ibeabuchi, MBA )

? AthLife Inc. : An organization that helps current and former athletes navigate career transitions, providing education, career development and life skills support (Cc: Maria Krauel, CCSP )

? "Personal Next": A guide for high achievers navigating major life transitions. Thank you, Melinda Harrison, PCC, OLY, Author , for your invaluable insights and connections!

? MBA Career Coaching: Personalized support for MBA students, including career strategy, interview preparation, networking guidance, and personal branding. (Cc: Paul Taylor )

? EY Counsellor Program: A mentorship initiative where experienced EY professionals provide personalized guidance, career development advice, and overall support. (Cc: Kevin Robson, Beth Rivard)

? #EYAthleteProgram: A program that helps current and former athletes transition to business careers through mentorship, networking opportunities, and professional development. (Cc: Joice Maduaka OLY , Chrissy Colizza )