Welcome Retired Players
Life beyond competing in football isn’t the end — it’s a redirection.
Stepping away, retiring or leaving the game is a deeply personal experience, and one that begins to take shape long before the final whistle. For some, this transition is planned and self-led. For others, it may arrive unexpectedly — through injury, illness, non-selection, or circumstances beyond your control.
That’s why we choose to see this next chapter not as an end, but as a redirection — a phase where the skills, experiences, and a part of your identity shaped through football can be carried forward into new arenas.
This change or transition is real. And like all change, it brings adjustment — emotionally, mentally, physically, and professionally. Whether it was anticipated or came suddenly, having support through change can make a positive impact. This space offers resources, reflections, and guidance to help you start to navigate life beyond the pitch— in ways that are meaningful to you and at your own pace.
Q&A For Retired Players
What if I’m not sure how to start this next chapter?
It’s okay to feel uncertain — retirement from sport is a big shift. Whether you have a clear plan or you’re still figuring things out, it’s normal to need time and support to adjust. You’re not alone, and this space is here to help you reflect, explore, and take your next step when you're ready.
I didn’t choose to retire from playing and competing— what support is there for me?
If your transition was unplanned, due to injury, illness, or non-selection, it can feel even more challenging. We acknowledge that grief, confusion, and frustration can be part of that experience. You deserve support — emotionally and practically — and we want to walk with you through this adjustment phase.
How can I use what I’ve learned in football in life beyond the game?
You’ve developed more than physical, technical and tactical skills — your leadership, teamwork, resilience, discipline, and focus can be redirected and reframed as strengths that matter in all walks of life. Redirection is about recognising those qualities and applying them in ways that bring purpose and fulfilment beyond football.
There are also many avenues within the game to apply and redirect these skills. Through coaching, administration or other support roles at your local club and community. Learn more about Coaching
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I was a player who played for a professional team in Australia or overseas and I would have really benefitted from help when my career ended. Where can I get support?
You’re not alone in feeling that way — many former players have shared similar reflections. The good news is that career transition support has grown significantly in recent years, with greater focus on helping players navigate this important phase.
If you played professionally in Australia or overseas, support is available through Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) — visit pfa.net.au to explore what’s available.
If you have also represented Î÷¹ÏÓ°ÊÓ at international level, you can access support either via the PFA or by reaching out directly to one of our National Teams Wellbeing Managers, who are here to help guide your next steps with care and understanding.
If you were a categorised Alumni of the AIS/Î÷¹ÏÓ°ÊÓ Academy then you can also access psychological support via the Mental Health Referral Network [MHRN] ; career and professional assistance [CPRN] ; or apply to join the Retired Athlete Peer Support [RAPS].
More Resources
- Strategies for coping with change ()
- Female Performance Health Initiative ()