ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines how sports organizations can effectively support athletes in pursuing dual careers by implementing dedicated programs, tools, and services. It provides guidelines for designing and implementing dual career support structures within clubs, federations, and other sport bodies, emphasizing the importance of organizational commitment and cross-sector collaboration. Key components of successful dual career programs are discussed, including academic flexibility, career guidance, life skills training, financial assistance, and holistic support services. This chapter offers actionable advice for creating these support systems, with examples illustrating how certain organizations have facilitated athletes’ education and career development alongside sport. Additionally, methods for evaluating the impact of dual career programs are introduced. Tools ranging from performance metrics like academic success rates, post-sport employment, to feedback mechanisms like athlete surveys and advisory committees. Finally, emerging trends and innovations in dual career support are examined, such as digital learning tools, mentorship models, and the development of quality standards, pointing to future directions for enhancing support systems for dual career athletes.
