Building Your Athlete Sphere

The Key to Success On and Off the Field

As an athlete, it’s not just about performing on the field or court anymore. Today’s athletes need to have strong business acumen to succeed off the field as well. But with so many people vying for their attention, athletes need to have a strong support system in place to help them navigate the business world and protect their interests. Just like a castle needs a moat to protect it from external threats, you also need protection to help you focus on your game and build a successful business.

Shown below is this circle, or “Athlete Sphere,” which is composed of four different tiers of people who play different roles in an athletes’ life and business.

Tier 1 – Close Family, Friends, & Consiglieres

At the center of your athlete sphere is your Tier 1, these are you close confidants or consiglieres. They act as your counsel for emotional and mental support. They are your last line of defense helping you keep a clear path towards your goals. In some cases, that would include family members and/or close friends but for the sake of this exercise we are keeping it strictly business. When considering family/friends for these roles, athletes must watch out for emotional blackmail and open trust as factors that can affect the sphere.

Tier 2 – Business Partners

Moving outwards, your Tier 2 is made up of key business partners such as managers, agents, and advisors who help the athlete make strategic decisions and manage their affairs. These people should be trusted professionals who have the athlete’s best interest at heart. These stakeholders are your generals that give you a map of the battlefield and find ways for you to win all areas of your life.

“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

- Jim Rohn

Tier 3 – Hired Help

Your Tier 3 includes people you hire for your business such as lawyers, accountants, and financial advisors, who provide essential support but operate on a contractual basis. These individuals should have limited access to the athlete’s personal life and only communicate with them on a strictly professional basis.

Tier 4 – One Way Street

Finally, your Tier 4, are the outsiders who have no business being in the athlete’s inner circle unless they can provide some clear value to the athlete’s business or personal goals. This also includes everyone else who should not have access to you unless you seek their help. This includes fans, marketers, opportunists and anyone else who may distract you from achieving your goals.

By building a strong athlete sphere, athletes can better protect their interests, make informed decisions, and stay focused on what matters most – their athletic performance and their business success. With the right support system in place, athletes can confidently navigate the business world and build a lasting legacy beyond the field.

Prefer to Watch A Video?