Building financial foundations for young athletes starts early
By Athena Constantinou, The Sports Financial Literacy Academy, Nicosia, Cyprus
In sport, we often talk about preparation, which is essential for success on the field of play.
Training begins early, habits are formed young, and development pathways are carefully structured to give athletes the best chances of success.
Yet, when it comes to money, preparation often comes too late.
Financial challenges in sport rarely begin when athletes start earning. They begin much earlier, with a lack of exposure, understanding and structure.
By the time contracts, sponsorships or income arrive, many young athletes are already making decisions without the financial knowledge to support them.
Financial literacy should be part of the academy journey; the habits young athletes can build before they turn 18, and the role parents can play in shaping early financial decisions are of crucial importance. Early understanding can make future financial opportunities easier to navigate.
Strong sports careers are not just built on performance: they are built on preparation.
And that preparation should include understanding money long before it arrives on the scene!
Athena Constantinou may be contacted by e-mail at ‘
