WHAT IS PLAYER CARE?
Introduction
Welcome to the new Player Care Group blog series; shedding light onto some of the key topics and major talking points in the world of Player Care across the sports industry. To begin with, we will delve into the meaning of Player Care; what it is; and why it exists in the world of modern sport.
What is Player Care?
In the fast-paced world of professional sports, the life of an athlete can be both exhilarating and demanding. While we often focus on the thrilling moments on the field, it's important to remember that a successful sports career goes beyond physical performance. That's where Player Care comes into play. Player Care reduces the risk to the value of players through a proactive support system.
Our Understanding
At The Player Care Group, we understand player care to be structured around three main areas of focus:
Operational: Operational Player Care is the backbone of proactive support in professional sports, managing various aspects crucial to player well-being and performance. From cultural integration to problem-solving and internal communication, professionals ensure minimal distractions for players, enabling them to excel on the field. This behind-the-scenes effort is essential for athletes to perform at their peak.
Personal Developmental: Personal developmental Player Care fosters athletes' growth on and off the field, emphasising education, life skills, and future planning. It equips players for success in their careers and beyond, supporting their well-being and fulfilment.
Welfare: Welfare and Player Care is a crucial support system in professional sports, focusing on athletes' mental well-being. It acknowledges the challenges athletes face, such as injuries, mental health issues, and personal crises, providing a compassionate environment for assistance and guidance. This includes mental health resources, safeguarding, and fostering a supportive atmosphere. It reinforces the importance of prioritising health and seeking help when necessary, promoting the idea that it's a sign of strength and resilience.
Successful Player Care
For the top athletes, who have already reached the pinnacle of their sport, the primary objective of care is to create an environment that minimises distractions and optimises their performance on the field. Hence, the emphasis in this context shifts significantly towards providing 80% support, which encompasses managing logistics, coordinating appearances, and ensuring a seamless matchday experience, among other aspects. The remaining 20% is dedicated to educational initiatives aimed at enhancing their skills and knowledge, enabling them to excel not only as athletes but as individuals within their chosen field.
Conversely, when it comes to Academy players and young athletes who aspire to reach such levels, the focus pivots toward their holistic development, laying the foundation for future success, both in and out of sports. Here, the balance tilts heavily towards 80% education, encompassing life skills, educational opportunities, and mentorship programs designed to equip young athletes with the tools they need for a well-rounded future. While support remains crucial, it represents 20% of the equation, providing the necessary assistance and guidance to navigate the complexities of the professional sports world.
Player Care operates proactively rather than reactively, aiming to anticipate and address the needs of athletes before issues arise. This proactive approach involves implementing measures to support players' well-being, performance, and personal development. By staying ahead of potential challenges, Player Care professionals can minimise disruptions and maximise athletes' ability to focus on their sport.
If you’re interested in learning more, visit www.playercaregroup.com and follow us on social media. Keep an eye out for our following blogs which will look at the history of the player care concept; where player care stands today; why it is so important; and how someone comes to work in the field.