Indian Athletes Explore Academic Paths Beyond Sports
A path beyond sport: Balancing act or safety net?
Hindustan Times
Image: Hindustan Times
Tejaswin Shankar, India's top decathlete, and Maana Patel, a swimmer, have shifted their focus from solely pursuing sports to academics after missing the 2024 Olympics. Their experiences highlight a growing trend among Indian athletes to seek balance and alternative career paths, emphasizing the importance of personal growth beyond competitive sports.
- 01Tejaswin Shankar and Maana Patel shifted focus to academics after not qualifying for the 2024 Olympics.
- 02Both athletes emphasize the importance of personal growth and balance in life.
- 03The Indian sports ecosystem traditionally encourages a singular focus on sports.
- 04There is a growing trend among elite Indian athletes to explore academic and career opportunities outside of sports.
- 05The experiences of these athletes may inspire younger generations to pursue diverse interests.
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In a notable shift for Indian athletes, Tejaswin Shankar (top decathlete) and Maana Patel (swimmer) have turned their focus to academics after failing to qualify for the 2024 Olympics. Tejaswin is pursuing a Master’s in exercise science at the University of Kansas, while Maana works in the developmental department at World Aquatics after completing her MSc in Sport Management at the University of Bath. Their experiences highlight a departure from the traditional Indian sports culture, which often emphasizes a singular focus on athletic performance. Both athletes have found that engaging in academic pursuits has provided them with a necessary balance and personal growth, allowing them to thrive outside of their sports. This trend may encourage future athletes to explore diverse interests and career opportunities alongside their athletic endeavors.
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This trend may inspire young athletes in India to pursue academic interests alongside sports, fostering a more balanced approach to their careers.
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