When Athletes LOSE Their Identity After Sports (ep 114)

In this episode of the Pain Free Athlete Podcast, host Dana Jones speaks with Alyssa Hermann and Alyssa Acompora, founders of Beyond the Athlete, a coaching platform dedicated to supporting former athletes in their transition out of sports. The conversation explores the challenges athletes face when leaving competitive sports, including identity crises, burnout, and the need for community support. The founders share their insights on coaching strategies, the importance of holistic wellness, and the creation of a supportive environment for former athletes to thrive beyond their athletic careers.

Alyssa Hermann, CEO

Former NIRSA Club Soccer Player

As a Registered Nurse, Board-Certified Nurse Coach and Former Athlete Transformation Coach, I am passionate about preparing athletes and former athletes for a fulfilling, healthy adult life. Soccer was the center of my world from the age of 5 until I graduated from the University of Florida and played my last game. I wish someone had been there to prepare me for the sudden loss of identity, passion, routine, community, and goals that came with leaving sports and transitioning into adult life. I found myself in a unique position as a Nurse and Former Athlete - I had the education, ability, and passion to empower others to create THEIR version of a healthy life AND I was part of a (former athlete/athlete) community that was severely lacking in support. Realizing this was my calling- I quit my traditional nursing job, became a board-certified coach, and dove head first into the world of supporting athletes and former athletes as they navigate life after sport.

Alyssa Acompora, COO

Former NCAA Division 1 Swimmer

As a Registered Nurse, Board-Certified Nurse Coach, and Certified Nutrition Coach, I pursued coaching because I am passionate about helping athletes and other high achievers pave a path of consistency and sustainable success, in all areas of life. When I was a D1 swimmer, my sport was everything to me. It’s hard to put into words the level of sacrifice and identity that goes into becoming an elite athlete. It took me almost 8 years as a nurse to realize how much the transition from “athlete” to “adult” shaped me into who I am today. Nowadays, I use what I learned as an athlete, nurse, and coach to lead a truly sustainable lifestyle. And while I’m grateful for my experience and expertise, I’m on a mission to ensure no other athlete is left alone to struggle through post-athletic life.

A-Team Links:

https://www.beyondtheathlete.net/

https://www.instagram.com/_beyondtheathlete/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2038323973027123/

https://open.spotify.com/show/4O3CAo0lia2A6B3D5XeUHN

Dana’s Links:

⁠⁠⁠https://www.painfreeathletepodcast.com⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠10 Day Journaling Journey⁠⁠⁠

Podcast Disclaimer:

The Pain-Free Podcast is presented solely for general information, education, and entertainment purposes. Any information presented in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional diagnosis. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. As always, users should not disregard or delay obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition that they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.