How to safeguard careers of young female athletes

Athletes such as Faith Kipyegon and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce are shining examples of women who have excelled on the track even after giving birth.

The key difference between these athletes and those who struggle to return to form post-maternity lies in careful planning and effective management.

It's concerning when an athlete at the pinnacle of her career chooses to become pregnant just months before a major event like the Olympics or World Athletics Championships. This highlights either poor planning or inadequate management.

For an athlete to reclaim her prowess after maternity, she requires extensive support from her surroundings.

Long distance runner Sarah Chelangat taking part in National Cross Country Championships

Marriage and childbirth are personal matters between athletes and their partners. While federations can provide guidance and support, the ultimate decision lies with the athlete herself.

Due to the demanding nature of athletics, coupled with inadequate management, many athletes find it challenging to balance marriage and sport. Consequently, some are compelled to sacrifice their athletic careers to fulfill familial responsibilities, with mixed results for those who attempt to juggle both.

To be clear, marriage and motherhood are aspirations for many women, but timing is crucial.

Presently, a significant portion of Uganda's elite athletes hail from the Sebei region. Unfortunately, some athletes married to partners unfamiliar with the demands of athletics find themselves facing undue control from their spouses. This often leads to difficulties in remaining committed to training camps and, subsequently, diminished performance.

Beatrice Ayikoru, General Secretary of the Uganda Athletics Federation (UAF), acknowledges the detrimental impact of unplanned pregnancies and overbearing spouses on female athletes' careers and performance. Consequently, UAF has launched a campaign to shield young athletes from predatory individuals.

"We have initiated the profiling of young athletes, ensuring their enrollment in school for closer monitoring. We aim to foster strong relationships between athletes, their parents, and their support networks. With access to their passports and knowledge of their ages, we will pursue legal action against those who marry athletes under 18," highlighted Ayikoru.

Athletes must understand that achieving success in their careers while married requires significant compromises. Delaying marriage until the age of 24, ideally by remaining in school, provides the best opportunity for athletes to excel. While it's possible to have children and pursue athletics simultaneously, robust support systems are essential for both endeavors.

"We've undertaken extensive sensitization programs for athletes and communities. Our efforts include radio programs in Kapchorwa to reach a wider audience," added Ayikoru.