Balancing Act: An Occupational Lens on the Process of Becoming an Elite Athlete.

backgroundIn 2023, the International Olympic Committee identified youth elite athletes as a 'neglected population' and called for further research into their wellbeing. To date, limited research has explored the experiences of youth athletes, and existing studies predominantly utilise psychological perspectives.

aimTo use an occupational perspective to explore the process of becoming an elite athlete, drawing on the current experiences of youth athletes and retrospective accounts from experienced athletes.

methodsA convergent mixed-method design, combining data from a cross-sectional questionnaire (N = 39), and semistructured individual interviews (N = 8) with athletes.

resultsQuantitatively, gender and sport type (individual vs team) were associated with mental health outcomes across the sample, with females and athletes competing in individual sports reporting poorer mental health outcomes. Enthusiastic commitment was positively correlated with grit and negatively correlated with depression. Qualitative data identified six key factors impacting occupational balance, including elite as a time commitment, relocation for recognition, athletes as a commodity, meaningful relationships supporting life balance, access to formal support and superhuman barriers to help-seeking.

conclusionThese findings highlight the intricate and complex nature of athlete wellbeing during the transition process and promote occupational balance and occupational science as a nuanced perspective for identifying and addressing opportunities for imbalance for the athlete population. SIGNIFICANCE: This study used an occupational lens to shine a light on the process of becoming an elite athlete and why it is important to support youth athletes, not just in sport but in life. The findings emphasise opportunities for occupational therapy to contribute to sport as an emerging practice domain.