About Us
Our
Story
At Sports Social Work Network (SSWN), we believe athletes are more than their performance, statistics, or sport. SSWN was created to bridge the gap between athletic identity, mental wellness, career mobility, and life beyond competition, especially for athletes from underserved and low socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds. Our work is grounded in research, social work values, and lived experience. Through research-informed programming, scenario-based learning experiences, mentorship, career development initiatives, and community partnerships, SSWN helps athletes strengthen self-awareness, explore purpose beyond sport, and prepare for long-term personal and professional success.
Our flagship initiative, The 98% Experience, was developed from a doctoral scoping review examining career development supports for postsecondary athletes from low SES backgrounds. The findings revealed that while athletic identity can foster confidence and resilience, many athletes still face barriers related to transition planning, mentorship, career exposure, and culturally responsive support systems.
SSWN exists to help athletes leverage their identity, not become limited by it.
We believe every athlete deserves the opportunity to:
• Develop beyond the game
• Explore meaningful career pathways
• Build holistic well-being
• Access mentorship and support
• Decide who they are with or without the label
