Draft Day is an event that has been around for many years, and seems to grow in notoriety year after year. It is practiced by all professional sports teams in the US. For the leagues, it is an opportunity to grab the latest talent, and for the athletes being drafted, it’s an opportunity for dreams to come true. Although the event is glamorized, it is common for mild stress to be looming within each athlete. Here is a list of five stressors that might be occurring, but not openly discussed.
Uncertainty
Draft day can be an extremely stressful time for athletes, as they may not know which team will select them or how much money they will be offered. This uncertainty can lead to anxiety and nervousness.
Public scrutiny
The public and media attention surrounding the draft can be intense, and athletes may feel a great deal of pressure to perform well in front of scouts, coaches, and fans. This scrutiny can be particularly stressful for athletes who are projected to be high draft picks.
Financial concerns
Draft day can also bring financial stress, as athletes may be signing contracts worth millions of dollars. Although NIL deals have allowed some athletes to earn millions of dollars while in college, it can be difficult navigating how to be financially responsible when a large amount of money comes at you at once.
Change of location
For many athletes, being drafted means moving to a new city or state, and possibly even a new country. They will also have new teammates, a new coaching staff, and all the responsibilities that come with a more elite level of play. This can be a stressful and disruptive experience, particularly if they have to leave behind friends and family.
Expectations
Drafted athletes may feel pressure to live up to high expectations, both from their new team and from fans. This can be particularly daunting for those who are expected to be key players or who are joining a team with a history of success.
If these stressors are weighing heavily on you or an athlete you know, it might be beneficial to find a long term therapist who can provide resources to help relieve some of this stress. Search the online directory by clicking here to find a great therapist that will provide just the right support you are looking for.
