Principle 8: Exiting

NSOs ensure that athletes are emotionally and practically supported when exiting a HP program.

The AIS acknowledges the importance of providing transition support for elite athletes at every stage of their high performance career, including during times of non-selection and when transitioning-out of HP sport.

NSOs should consider developing processes and policies that provide guidance to both HP staff and categorised athletes around the management and delivery of a supported transition-out of the HP program.

Appendix 1: Guidelines for exiting

When an athlete has relocated to be part of a HP program, exiting may pose added complications if relevant guidelines and processes are not in place. NSOs should develop transition-out guidelines that detail processes for managing an athlete’s exit from a HP program.

Exit plan guidelines should be attached to any relocation agreement in order that any risks and/or areas of negotiation are clear (for example: for how long is the athlete financially supported, if at all, after exiting? For how long is service access/provision available and what are the details around this?).

A successful and effective transition-out plan may include:

• Athlete exit interviews with all relevant service providers (for example: HP Director, Head Coach, AW&E provider, Doctor, Physiotherapist, Psychologist, Strength & Conditioning, etc.)
• Action planning and follow-up
• Referrals
• Guidance around financial obligations and/or responsibilities.