We sit down with Oliver Soames, former first-class cricketer, to explore how life on the field shaped his approach to planning, networking, and building a purposeful career beyond sport.

Oliver reflects on the reality that not every career ends with a fairytale finish, and why that makes preparation and honest conversations so important. He shares how opening up to other athletes and leaning into your network can provide unexpected opportunities, valuable perspective, and even peace of mind.

From handling the emotional side of transition to understanding the power of using your platform while you still have it, Oliver’s story is a grounded and inspiring reminder that you’re not alone, and you’re more prepared than you think.

Key Takeaways:

• Use your time and network wisely
• Preparation brings peace
• You’re not alone
• Find your bubble
• There’s life beyond the scoreboard

About the hosts

James Rule, Co-Founder of ATA, is a seasoned leadership coach and former professional rugby player with extensive experience in high-performance sports management. Having held CEO roles at Super League clubs and senior positions in major sporting organizations, he understands the pressures of transitioning beyond elite competition. A passionate advocate for athlete development, James drives ATA’s mission to provide structured, research-driven support, ensuring athletes are equipped for long-term success beyond the game.

Karl Birch, Co-Founder of ATA, is a former rugby player turned coach, mentor, and leadership specialist. With over a decade in medical sales, where he led a team, he combines industry expertise with a deep understanding of the athlete mindset to help athletes transition into meaningful careers beyond sport. Passionate about early preparation and proactive career planning, he has guided former athletes through transition, ensuring they step confidently into their next chapter.

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Jess Roper

Connect and Contact

www.athletetransitionaccelerator.com

LinkedIn:

Athlete Transition Accelerator: https://www.linkedin.com/company/athlete-transition-accelerator/

James Rule: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-rule-77255520/

Karl Birch: linkedin.com/in/karlbbirch10

Instagram:

@ataccelerator https://www.instagram.com/ataccelerator

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