LIFE AFTER FOOTBALL

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According to a 2009 Sports Illustrated article, 78% of NFL players have gone bankrupt or face financial stress because of joblessness or divorce within two years of retiring. In fact, according to the NFL Players Association, at least 78 players lost a total of more than $42 million between 1999 and 2002 because they trusted money to financial advisors with questionable backgrounds.

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By common estimates among athletes and agents, the divorce rate for pro athletes ranges from 60% to 80%. In hopes of preventing clients from falling prey to these shocking statistics, P.L.A.N. creator Deryk Gilmore called upon NFL representatives, NFLPA representatives, financial advisors, life coaches, counselors, and other business professionals who are at the top of their respective fields to speak to its NFL players at bi-annual events. Each speaker has provided tools to help players avoid the traps that so many retired athletes have already encountered, helping them pave the way for life after football.

 

Deryk Gilmore also went one step further, pairing his clients with these top-level executives to serve as mentors. J. Leman, former linebacker for the Oakland Raiders, believed the event had a great deal to offer former players. He said, “I recommend going for anyone who played for years, and then you’re not sure what you want to do. It was great to learn about the full spectrum of options like real estate, coaching, and music.