Specialist help for athletes to find success and fulfilment beyond sport
Working with the human behind the athlete
Working with the human behind the athlete
Human First is the expert partner for athletes navigating the transition from competitive sport to a fulfilling life beyond the game. With a deep understanding of identity, mindset, and transformation, we guide athletes through the emotional, psychological, and practical challenges that come with leaving sport.
Our work is informed by ov
Human First is the expert partner for athletes navigating the transition from competitive sport to a fulfilling life beyond the game. With a deep understanding of identity, mindset, and transformation, we guide athletes through the emotional, psychological, and practical challenges that come with leaving sport.
Our work is informed by over a decade of research, personal experience, and a commitment to seeing the whole person, not just the performer. We’re here to help you reconnect with your authentic self and chart a course to lasting fulfilment.
The transition away from sport is more than just a career change—it’s an identity shift. For years, you’ve defined yourself by what you’ve achieved. We know the struggles of stepping into the unknown because we’ve been there too.
- Over 100 Athlete Stories: We began with interviews of over 100 athletes, revealing shared challenges and un
The transition away from sport is more than just a career change—it’s an identity shift. For years, you’ve defined yourself by what you’ve achieved. We know the struggles of stepping into the unknown because we’ve been there too.
- Over 100 Athlete Stories: We began with interviews of over 100 athletes, revealing shared challenges and universal truths about identity, change, and fulfilment.
- Research based - Our programmes are underpinned by rigorous academic research, developed in collaboration with Sheffield University. Peer-reviewed studies highlight the importance of social support and the transformative impact of addressing emotional and identity shifts. This research forms the backbone of our tailored interventions, ensuring they are both evidence-based and athlete-focused
Our team combines decades of experience in elite sport, psychological expertise, and personal transitions. We understand the unique pressures and opportunities because we’ve been there. Our programmes are crafted ‘by athletes, for athletes,’ ensuring every session resonates with your journey.
Athlete transitions often bring a profound emot
Our team combines decades of experience in elite sport, psychological expertise, and personal transitions. We understand the unique pressures and opportunities because we’ve been there. Our programmes are crafted ‘by athletes, for athletes,’ ensuring every session resonates with your journey.
Athlete transitions often bring a profound emotional journey, from feelings of grief and confusion to rediscovering purpose beyond sport. At Human First, we provide a safe and supportive space where athletes can explore these emotions, build resilience, and find new meaning.
Your journey begins with the courage to take the first step. This foundational programme helps you rediscover who you are beyond your achievements, creating space for reflection and growth.
- Format: Online / Virtual
- Focus: Mindset, identity, and emotional transition
- Duration: Five sessions over Six weeks
Residential Retreats
Immerse yourself in a supportive environment where transformation is possible. Our retreats provide the time, space, and expert guidance you need to embrace your next chapter.
- Format: 5-day intensive retreats
- Focus: Building purpose and exploring new possibilities
- Location: Details on 2025 sessions coming soon
For those seeking a personalised approach, we offer one-on-one coaching to address specific needs, from career transitions to redefining personal fulfilment.
- Format: Online or Face to Face
- Focus: A tailored approach to meet your needs. Combing coaching with therapeutic and contemplative practices.
- Duration: Initial packages of six sessions
Athlete transition is at the core of what we do.
Unlike programmes that simply relocate skills to new environments, we focus on deeper personal transformation.
Our goal is to help you:
- Break Free from Limiting Beliefs: Shed the "not enough" narrative and build a foundation of self-compassion.
- Navigate the Stress of Change: Learn how to handle the dissonance between expectations and reality during life shifts.
- Move Beyond the Mask: Step out of the role you've been playing and reconnect with your true essence.
With Human First, the transformation is not just about what you’ll do next; it’s about who you’ll become.
“the programme left an indelible mark on my life, helping me make informed decisions that extended far beyond the realm of sports and employment.”
“Rick provided a safe space within a small group setting to open up, explore our individual challenges and start a process towards self-awareness and progress that has been a truly transformational journey for me.”
“nothing prepares you as a sportsperson for the biggest contest you ever face, when the final whistle blows the game has only just begun and I don’t know the rules and even how to play”
Ready to embrace your transformation?
Contact us to learn more or join the First Steps programme today