It has been a while since I’ve taken the time to write, reflect, and get my thoughts out of my head. Since the pandemic, there was a brief moment when I thought things might be turning around, but life had other plans. So, I’ve been absent from writing for a while. But I need to get back to it. Writing, for me, is more about the practice of expression and capturing a snapshot of my thoughts in time rather than sharing knowledge—because, let’s be honest, it’s been a long time since anyone asked for my opinion. I mainly wrote because my parents would read my work, but unfortunately, my two most frequent readers are no longer with us.

Over the holiday break—and really, since the summer of 2024—I have spent more time reflecting on my career and my place in the world of sport performance. During this time, I’ve had to come to terms with where I stand in this profession and what kind of legacy I want to leave. I use the word ‘legacy’ loosely, as it traditionally refers to something significant passed down—values, achievements, traditions—but mine will likely be much more understated. It’s more about how I’ll be remembered by the handful of people I’ve worked with over the years.

A few weeks ago, I was in a virtual meeting where I shared that my ‘superpower’ is knowing many professionals in the field while remaining largely unknown myself. I have always been that person who connects with many but remains inconspicuous.

Lately, one particular topic has come up repeatedly. The more people I talk to and the more questions I ask, the more it resurfaces. There’s a trend on social media where a woman looks into the camera and says, “Say the weird thing,” prompting people to share an unconventional thought that might cause a little shock and awe. So, from a sports science perspective, let’s say the weird thing: The status of sport today is financially driven far more than it is developmentally driven.

There, it’s out there. The current sports environment encourages young athletes to specialize earlier and commit more time to a single sport. There’s an increasing perception that they can’t diversify their experiences across multiple activities. Parents face mounting pressure to enroll their children in every possible event for their chosen sport or to constantly push them to do more, hoping to increase their chances of ‘making it.’ In reality, an athlete’s long-term success is influenced by many factors, most of which are not determined at a young age.

At a speaking engagement a few months ago, someone asked me, “If you encourage your athletes to try another sport, aren’t you worried they might leave yours altogether?” My answer was simple: “No.” If I guide a young athlete toward trying a new sport and they thrive in it, I’ve helped them discover a passion they may excel in. If they don’t, what’s the worst that could happen? They return to their original sport with enhanced skills and attributes that make them a better overall athlete. I struggle to see a downside.

I intended to keep this brief, but this topic is complex, with many factors at play. It’s a discussion that could go on for hours, but for now, it has helped me rekindle my desire to express my thoughts and find a space to store them. And who knows? Maybe these words will spark some thought in the one or two people who happen to stumble upon them.