At Indiana University Kokomo, sophomore volleyball player Avery Littrell starts her day
before sunrise. Morning weight training, classes, and team practices fill her schedule. By
the time she gets home, there is little time left for anything else.

For many college student-athletes, this cycle rarely stops. But beyond physical exhaustion
lies the challenge of figuring out who they are when that uniform comes off.

Experts say that pressure, burnout, and shifting priorities make it difficult for athletes to
separate their self-worth from their performance. When factors like injuries or graduation
take the sport away, some struggle to find purpose and direction.

“College athletes eat, sleep, and breathe their sport,” Littrell said. “My whole life has
revolved around volleyball. Most of my best friends have been or are volleyball players. In
college, you spend almost all of your time with your team, whether that’s on or off the
court.”

That intense commitment can make it hard to separate personal life from sports. While
Littrell values her teammates deeply, she sets aside time on the weekends to visit friends
and family.

Littrell has also found separation from volleyball in her job off campus. Two days a week,
Littrell works with physical therapy patients as preparation for her future career. She says
she enjoys interacting with her co-workers as well as her clients. “[This job] has been
extremely good for me,” Littrell said. “I’ve been able to meet new people and have new
experiences that aren’t tied to volleyball.”

Littrell is mentally stronger on and off the court because she has a well-rounded schedule.
Finding a balance between sports and personal growth is key, but not always easy. Some
athletes take a break to explore other interests, while others work to maintain a healthy
separation between their athletic and personal lives.

Developing hobbies, friendships, and goals beyond sports can help student-athletes build
a stronger sense of identity. Having something to fall back on not only reduces burnout but
also improves overall well-being. For many student-athletes, learning who they are beyond
the jersey may be their biggest win yet.