The Role of Coaches in Bridging the Education-Employment Gap for Athletes: A Case Study on Athlete Mentorship and Career Readiness in India

The transition from competitive sports to mainstream employment presents significant challenges for athletes in India, particularly those who discontinue formal education early. While elite athletes who achieve national and international recognition may secure financial stability through sponsorships, government support, or coaching roles, the vast majority struggle to find viable career paths once their playing years end. The absence of structured career guidance, coupled with a traditional emphasis on performance over holistic development, leaves many athletes without the necessary skills to navigate life beyond sports. This study examines the critical role of coaches in influencing athletes’ educational and skill development decisions. Through interactions with 35 athletes who had ceased formal education after class 12th, we identified recurring themes of low motivation, lack of awareness about career options, and the absence of structured mentorship. Most athletes believed that sporting talent alone would secure their future, while others were unaware of the relevance of skill development programs such as English communication, MS Office proficiency, or vocational training. Recognizing the trust and influence that coaches wield; we implemented a targeted intervention involving six coaches. These coaches were educated on the importance of athlete employability, skill-building, and career preparedness beyond sports. They, in turn, engaged with their athletes, emphasizing the value of education and employable skill sets. The results were significant—14 out of the 35 athletes reconsidered their stance and agreed to pursue skill development opportunities. These findings highlight the untapped potential of coaches as career mentors and the pressing need for structured mentorship programs within India’s sports ecosystem. If sports federations, associations, and policymakers formalize career guidance mechanisms within training programs, the long-term employability of athletes can be significantly improved. This study advocates for the integration of career mentorship into coaching certification programs, collaborations between sports institutions and educational bodies, and policy-level interventions to ensure that every athlete is equipped not just to compete but to thrive beyond their sporting career.