Do you have a story?

In an interview I did with Kerri Pottharst, Olympic gold medallist in beach volleyball, she mentioned the importance of having a good story. Find your angle to share with journalists to build your newsworthiness and gain free publicity.
Now High Road Entertainment is seeking stories from athletes. Do you have a compelling and inspirational story? Some of my favourite movies are those involving sport and athletes overcoming challenges to make good. I recently watched "Invincible" the story of Vince Papale who got to live his dream when he joined the NFL at age 30. There is something about the athlete who defies the opinions of others, the rejection and the failures to continually strive to be their very best. It is listening to one's own heart that enables these stars to persist through the pain and shine.
It is this very tenacity that can be used to overcome the challenges of sporting retirement and to create success in something new. Has the fight left athletes when it's no longer about sport? When do people stop dreaming about their future? It's never too late to dream and to fight for that dream. Keep striving for success in everything you do.
What's your favourite inspirational sporting movie?

Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail

I just read that Scott Miller, Australian swimmer, was pleading his case in a sentencing hearing for drug-related charges.
Miller admits not knowing what do with his life when his career ended in 2004. Here is yet another tragic example of a gifted athlete, devoting his childhood and teens to a sport, and then having nothing to step into afterwards.
Athletes often think that they will deal with career and 'life after sport' when they stop playing. It's time to wake up and realise that that is too late. There are too many instances where this lack of planning leads to depression, drugs and unfortunately even suicide (Jobie Dakja).
There is a let-down after living in another 'stratosphere' for much of life likened to falling from the Gods. Back in the land of mere mortals and everyday life, there is less to get excited about unless you have a plan, a new passion and are prepared.
There are some systems in place provided by sporting organisations and yet athletes fall through the cracks. While programs can educate and support athletes, it is up to the athletes themselves to step up and receive the support. It is up to them to use the education to make plans and realise that all the warnings about life after sport are true. It can be a struggle so be prepared by doing something before retirement.

Relationships of Sportstars- Real or Surreal?

In the USA there have been a slew of reports on athletes and their adulterous lifestyles. Married NFL player Steve McNair was killed by his girlfriend. In Australia, NRL star Greg Inglis faces charges of assaulting his girlfriend.
These stories, and more, are not uncommon in the non-sporting world, so is it because of their media profile that it seems to be more of a problem within sport?
A recent article reported the divorce rate for NFL stars was 60-80%, much greater than the national average. Why is this?
Life and a relationship while playing sport may be very different when the sporting career is over.
In a piece on Deadspin, it introduces the problem that it's not only the athletes that need to adjust to a new life on retirement from sport. Their spouses are also experiencing change and coping with not only a change of lifestyle but also the change in personality the former athlete may demonstrate. The dynamics of the relationship can change and it may not be one either party had expected or want.
Even during sport their are challenges for relationships due to long absences and temptations. There is a long-accepted creed "What goes on tour, stays on tour" which goes to suggest that extra-marital relationships are condoned, perhaps even by the spouse. Simone, wife of Australian cricketer Shane Warne, regularly forgave him for his indscretions.
These acts may be less excusable when the athlete is retired, but are they still tempted towards old habits? How does a relationship survive sport?
I believe solid relationships are built on shared values, clear communication, mutual respect and a desire to grow together. A greater understanding of values and how they affect both the individual and the relationship can help.
What do you think?