Retiring soccer pro: Duke Health program helps transition to life after the game
Retired professional soccer players now receive medical as well as mental health support after their career ends.
Duke Health is one of only 3 FIFA Medical Centers of Excellence in the U.S. to help recently retired players make that transition.
Now, former local college and pro star Darrius Barnes is benefiting from the services.
The former Southeast Raleigh High School soccer star went on to play for Duke – then as a pro with FIFA's New England Revolution.
Barnes is no stranger to physical therapy and medical exams.
"Had a good nine year career, and then it goes by so quick," he said. "It goes by so quick. So quick."
He understands many players have trouble adjusting to life after their last game.
"So you definitely go through an identity crisis and just trying to figure out who you are in this next stage of life as you transition to a new career," he said.
That's why he's taking advantage of FIFA's new "After Career Consultation Program," which includes special sports-based medical assessments, as well as advice for adjusting to a new life schedule.
"They don't have coaches telling them what they need to do and or how nutritious they should eat," said Dr. Brian Lau, a Duke orthpaedic surgeon.
The program offers recently retired players reading material and guidance on “de-training." It also provides advice on diet, mental health and joint pain.
Ryan Kymball, a physical therapist for Duke Sports Medicine says, "Keep mentally healthy, physically healthy - and try to transition as best as we can from their prior, very well-structured routine - into this post career routine."
Barnes' new routine will be in the business office of Charlotte's new pro team - launching next year.
He's also planning to get married, which opens even more options – in coaching the next generation of athletes.
"Once I have kids, I'll coach my kids and coach the youth because that's the next generation. That's where the future of the sport is," he said.
