One important piece of advice for athletes transitioning to a new career after retirement is to recognize the value of their unique skills and experiences. For example, many athletes can successfully shift into coaching or broadcasting by leveraging their passion and knowledge of the sport. It's crucial to explore interests outside of athletics early on. In my experience managing athletes, I encourage them to build relationships in their desired fields while still active in their sports careers. Engaging in internships or volunteer opportunities related to their interests can provide valuable insights. We also focused on professional development, like attending workshops or pursuing relevant certifications, to equip them for their next steps. By taking these proactive measures, athletes can create a strong foundation for a successful transition, making the process smoother when the time comes to move on from competitive sports.
Transitioning from a career in professional sports to starting a real estate development business wasn't easy. I had no prior knowledge of the industry, no money, and no connections. But then, I reminded myself-I started from nothing once before. When I first began my journey in Track and Field, I had no guarantees, but I pushed myself, worked tirelessly, and quickly achieved great success. I knew exactly what it takes to be successful, and I channeled that same drive, focus, and determination into my new professional venture. My motivation in real estate wasn't just to succeed; it was to be a champion. Just like in Track and Field, I set my sights on reaching the highest level. I paid attention to every detail, put in countless hours, and pushed myself to work harder than anyone else. I applied the visualization techniques I had learned as an athlete-constantly seeing myself succeeding in this new venture, attracting the right connections, and landing the right projects. In just three years, I went from having $76 in my bank account and no network, to owning a thriving development business with 25 employees. Today, we are developing 127 homes and an 83-unit apartment building. All of this was built not from what I learned in school, but from what I learned on the track. It's about discipline. It's about work ethic. It's about putting everything you have into achieving a goal that seems impossible, even when no one else can see your vision. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that anything you can imagine-and truly believe in-can be accomplished. All it takes is the strength to trust your vision, the courage to put your mind and emotions into it, and the relentless work to make that future version of yourself a reality.