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Olympic champion Gabby Thomas has wowed fans with recent gesture, extending an olive branch for upcoming athletes to navigate challenges in their transition.
Olympic champion Gabby Thomas is stepping up to guide upcoming athletes through one of the most challenging phases of their careers, transitioning from collegiate track and field to the professional circuit.
After a stellar Olympic season where she claimed gold in three events, Thomas is channeling her experiences into mentoring those who might feel lost during this pivotal phase.
Thomas, known for her grace both on and off the track, acknowledged her own struggles when entering the professional world.
The three-time Olympic gold medalist took to her X account, encouraging aspiring athletes to seek her guidance, writing, "If you’re like me and didn’t know who or what to ask, my inbox is always open!"
Her gesture came in response to advice from Mo Wells, a seasoned American Director of Sports, who recently cautioned young athletes about signing with agencies without proper due diligence.
Wells urged athletes to research thoroughly, ask questions, and avoid jumping at lucrative offers without understanding the long-term implications.
Thomas has often echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the challenges she faced in her early professional career.
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19:00 - 27.09.2024
Gabby Thomas on how mean track & field environment was to her when she first turned professional
Gabby Thomas opens up about the challenges of adjusting to the competitive and sometimes unfriendly professional track environment after college while emphasizing the importance of self-belief, representation, and her drive to inspire others.
In an interview with Guardian Sport, she admitted that the professional track environment was initially unwelcoming.
“When I first came on to the scene after college, I was a little bit shocked by how catty, divided, and dramatic a lot of the environment could be. But it’s also a competition, so I understand that,” she shared.
Despite the initial hurdles, Thomas emphasized the importance of self-belief and representation, explaining how these values have driven her success.
“I always see myself as something bigger than just being a track athlete. My major goal is to show everyone that despite their background, they can be anything,” she said.
Thomas’ decision to offer mentorship is a reflection of her broader vision for the sport extending an olive branch to aspiring athletes to create a more supportive environment and help them navigate the complexities of professional athletics with confidence and clarity.
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