ABSTRACT
The spread of Covid-19 has been a disruptive force on society, wreaking unprecedented havoc on people’s daily lives. Athletes represent a group whose experiences have been uniquely impacted, as for many, this unwelcomed disruption has mirrored elements of forced transition, bringing psychological symptoms and the psychosocial impact that has been previously seen in athletes whose athletic careers are unexpectedly terminated by injury, deselection, or another similar traumatic event. This paper highlights potential benefits that such a transition can bring in the career of competitive athletes, with a focus on the athletes who will have the option to return to competition in the indefinite future. Aspects of subjective well-being, athletic identity and its impact on multidimensional identity formation, reinforced motivational perspectives and specific strategies that this undesired time away can allow the athlete the time to develop, will be assessed. While this is not the optimal situation, it is argued that social distancing can be used as an opportunity to set daily non-athletic routines, explore new hobbies and interests, enhance interpersonal relationships, and discover non-sport-related personal qualities, all while still preparing for a rejuvenated eventual return to sport.
