THE ‘WHY’ BEHIND FOREVHER ATHLETES CO

LEXI REED, MS, CMPC, CPT, CNC

For as long as I can remember, sport has been one of the most formative parts of my life—not just because of the competition, but because of what it has taught me about who I am, what I’m capable of, and how I show up in the world. I’ve always been passionate about the female athlete experience and supporting girls and women in sport—not just while they’re competing, but in every chapter that follows.

Over the years, I’ve seen more resources and conversations begin to emerge for female athletes during their careers, and that progress is absolutely worth celebrating. But what happens after the final whistle blows? After the jersey is folded up for the last time? That’s where I’ve seen the biggest gap—and where I believe the most meaningful support is still needed.

As a former Division I athlete whose senior season ended abruptly in the midst of COVID, I know firsthand how confusing, isolating, and identity-shifting life can feel once the sport stops. But I strongly believe this to be true: once an athlete, always an athlete. Even though I’ve been “retired” from competitive sport for a few years now, the athlete within me never left. The mindset, the grit, the drive to grow—it’s all still there.

Even now—five years post-sport and having a much deeper understanding of who I am—I still catch myself asking: Who am I without it? What does strength look like off the field? How do I move, fuel, and live with purpose without the structure sport once gave me?

Through the processes of obtaining my Master's in Sport and Performance Psychology and becoming a Certified Mental Performance Consultant®, as well as in my experiences as an Athletic Administrator, Personal Trainer, and Coach, I’ve had the privilege of supporting and connecting with a wide range of female athletes through various stages of competition and transition. And through countless conversations, one thing became clear: so many of us are navigating the same challenges after sport—disconnected from identity, unsure how to move forward, and craving the sense of team and belonging we once had.

That’s why I created ForevHER Athletes Co—a connection-driven space for women who may no longer compete, but still carry the athlete mindset with them in everyday life and are seeking to be part of a team again. This team is full of other amazing female athletes who bring similar, yet uniquely diverse, journeys and experiences to our community.

Here at ForevHER Athletes Co, you’ll find a supportive, empowering community where you can reconnect with your identity and rediscover your athlete mindset while pursuing purpose beyond the uniform. And the best part? You aren't doing it alone- you're doing it alongside a community of other former female athletes who have experienced or are currently experiencing the same thing as you. So if you're looking for connection, conversation, and community in life after sport, you’re in the right place. We can't wait for you to be a part of our team! 💛