Why We Exist
Historically, men are looked to as leaders, providers, and protectors. This preconceived notion encourages them to uphold this standard, which can increase their perceived stress. Men spend a majority of their time working to uphold those standards and often neglect taking the time to work on themselves. This kind of self-reflection is critical in allowing one to both prepare for and manage the ups and downs that they will encounter along their journey.
Furthermore, statistically speaking, the transition from adolescence to adulthood tends to be more difficult for young men. For this reason, young men tend to represent over half of the number of grade school and college dropouts between the ages of 16-24. Studies show that young men within this age group are more resistant to mental health treatment plans, because they feel that they have it “all figured out”. This resistance makes them more susceptible to become victims of isolation, depression, and suicide when faced with adversity.
As an organization with leadership experience across both collegiate and professional athletics, we understand the pressure that student athletes face. They are expected to juggle performing at the highest level not only academically, but athletically as well. Though athletics may become the central focus of a student athletes' identity, we know that less than 1% of all collegiate athletes will become professional athletes with that professional career lasting an average of 6 years.
We were founded with each of these statistics, situations, and circumstances in mind. We exist to act as a resource for these specific populations of young men in order to prepare them for transitions before, during, and after their careers come into fruition.