Case Study: Navigating Loss and Family Struggles in Professional Sport

Alex*, a 27-year-old professional sportsperson, had always been known for their resilience in competition. A key figure in their team, Alex was a leader and a role model for younger teammates. But away from their sport, things were different.

Alex was bereaved of an important family friend, someone who had been a pillar of support throughout their career. At the same time, they were struggling with tensions at home. The grief was overwhelming, and the pressure to perform only made things worse. They hadn’t told their team or organization, fearing that if they spoke up, they’d be seen as weak or distracted.

The Hidden Weight of Grief

At first, Alex coped by throwing themselves into training and competition. But over time, their performance started to dip. They became more irritable with teammates, struggled to focus, and withdrew socially. Small injuries took longer to heal, and sleep became a problem. Yet, instead of asking for help, Alex kept pushing through, afraid that opening up could affect their place in the team or future opportunities.

Finding a Safe Space

Through a teammates recommendation, Alex reached out to WildKin for therapy privately, outside their organization. For the first time, they had a space where they didn’t have to perform. They could talk openly about their loss, the strain of trying to ignore this an plough on through had put on their relationships, and the fear that showing vulnerability might impact their career.

Rebuilding from the Inside Out

In therapy, Alex explored the impact of grief—not just emotionally but physically, mentally, and in their relationships. They worked through feelings of guilt and pressure, learning that grief isn’t something to get over or fix, but it’s more about a journey of learning how carry and hold these feelings and memories differently. They also found ways to communicate with their family, rebuilding trust and connection. 

As therapy continued, Alex was able to have individual and family sessions. Alex began to see their team not just as an organisation but as a potential support system. With guidance, they decided to have an open conversation with a trusted coach. Instead of judgment, they found understanding, support, and practical adjustments to help them through a difficult time.

The Power of Support in Sport

Alex’s story is one of many in professional sport. Grief, family struggles, and personal challenges don’t stop at the pitch, the court, or the track. Systemic psychotherapy can offer a way to process these experiences not just as an athlete, but as a whole person.

At WildKin, we provide a confidential space for sports professionals to navigate these challenges. Whether working privately with an individual or in collaboration with teams and organizations, our goal is to support athletes in thriving both in and beyond their sport.

*This case study has been written with permission, with names and some details changed to protect confidentiality.