In 2016 I denounced the philosophy that "athletics builds character" while filming a documentary highlighting my induction into the University of Cincinnati James P. Kelly Athletics Hall of Fame. Such conviction proved an obvious contradiction to the culture of nostalgia that we often ascribe to participating in sporting events. In the pursuit to provide the best environment and experiences for children the perpetuation of unfinished narratives is concerning. The expectation that simply enrolling adolescents in team activities yields an enhancement in their cognitive development is problematic and it's time to talk about it.
As a society, we have arrived at the consensus that student-athletes juggle rigorous academic schedules, increased team demands and precise constraints of both time and energy. Players are encouraged to ignore (or persevere through) pain as an added layer of their multifaceted roles. However, the systems by which competitors access mental health services are not necessarily prepared to address such a unique, spiritually underserved populace.
Then an injury occurs.
Researchers at the Department of Athletic Medicine at Princeton University theorized that "The psychological response to injury can trigger and/or unmask mental health issues including depression and suicidal ideation, anxiety, disordered eating, and substance use/abuse."1 Interestingly, Dr. Putukian speculated that stress leads to injury, and the resulting emotional cascade that student-athletes navigate for assistance is riddled with barriers.
"Athletes differ in their response to injury." Dr. Margot Putukian, Princeton University
Abruptly transitioning from active performance as a result of injury places an enormous mental and emotional burden on players that is compounded by physical displacement. Establishing effective coping mechanisms that are founded in resiliency, spirituality and a healthy sense of one's worth is the first step towards molding student-athletes for the challenges that await beyond the arena.
My service as a sports chaplain encompasses the art of unearthing and addressing the cultural minefields that are perpetuated within the realm of competitive athletics. I understand the pressures of competing at an elite level and wholeheartedly believe that we must first illuminate, then bridge the gap between performance and person. Learning to recognize the common signs of stress in athletes while facilitating a qualified system of support are important steps towards keeping our children safe.
I would like to learn more about keeping student-athletes safe.
A. Absolutely.
B. No, thank you.
C. This is interesting, but not my focus.
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1 Putukian M. Br J Sports Med 2016;50:145–148. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2015-095586
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