What Your fellow athletes had to say...

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"The next step ready course was a brilliant experience and something I'd recommend to all athletes. I learnt so much about myself and what I can bring to the business world through my transferable skills. We were put under pressure through challenging tasks and became able to adapt and use our skills in new scenarios. I learnt from everyone involved: Chloe and Dean, the other athletes and the external guests, all of which I am delighted to have as contacts for the future. "

"I had no idea what to expect when I signed up to the programme and wasn’t sure it was the right thing for me as I don’t intend to stop sailing for another 4 years, but it was probably the singularly most useful thing I have done to prepare myself for whatever comes after sport. I wasn’t necessarily stressed about it before but now I feel almost excited for what is to come and I'm looking forward to using the connections I made to get some real work experience over the next few years."

“The Next Step Ready programme came at a brilliant time for me, I had recently moved abroad to play in the Premier League in Brussels. The monthly sessions provided a great opportunity for me to reflect on some personal traits and experiences which I would have not done otherwise. Chloe and Dean have been so engaging throughout the program and offered much support, acting like mentors on a number of occasions. We were also flung into numerous situations that were not comfortable. One of our final sessions, we were told we had 15 minutes to prepare for three separate interviews by experienced corporate leaders. It was a remarkable session and on reflection we were all so grateful for the opportunity to practice under pressure. If you are looking for something to focus on outside of your sport to further your career and development, this is a great place to start.”

  “This programme is invaluable for those wishing to get ahead with their next steps after sport. I wish I had done the programme earlier to save the time and effort it took to find my path."

 "This programme is aligned to supporting the Sport’s duty of care. I think it will improve retention for those worrying that they are missing out on career opportunities by staying in sport.”   

   “The Next Step READY programme fills a huge need which will help on the on-field performance of athletes and enable them to become more balanced individuals.”  

  "In sport we prepare for every eventuality, learn to build incredible relationships, get the most out of ourselves and those around us. Next Step READY translates these/your unique sporting skills to business and builds confidence that whatever comes next, sport has given you the skills to succeed." 

  “The Next Step READY programme helps remove the fear of the unknown for athletes; this gives people comfort that when they retire they can start their next journey.”   

  "As athletes on our NGB Elite teams we have world class support networks to make us ready to compete on the highest level. Next Step READY are part of that same support network, but to help us with what happens with life after our sporting careers."