Empowering Athletes for the Game of Life with Coach Tony Thompson

Being an athlete isn’t just about being good at sports. It’s about discipline, hard work, and dedication. Athletes put in countless hours of practice, endure physical challenges, and learn valuable lessons about teamwork and perseverance. But what happens when the final whistle blows or the last match is played? For many athletes, the transition from sports to the next phase of life can be daunting. However, it’s essential to recognize that being an athlete teaches valuable skills that can be applied beyond the field or court.

Being an athlete involves more than just excelling in sports since it requires preparation for life beyond the game. By prioritizing education, cultivating a strong work ethic, and building a support network, athletes can position themselves for success both on and off the field. Remember, talent is essential, but it’s dedication and hard work that ultimately led to lasting achievement.

Coach Tony Thompson is a father, sports coach, podcaster, and the president of The RIZE Nil sports agency, which connects athletes and brands to maximize exposure to clients worldwide. The “RIZE NIL” is a sports marketing agency focused on making sure our clients receive revenue opportunities for the work they put into expanding the Brands’ image. They also assist their clients in being part of an excellent opportunity to extend their careers as collegiate student-athletes while helping brands succeed in the marketplace.

In this special episode, I will share a candid conversation on the Pull Up podcast, where Coach Tony and I discussed a wide range of topics, from the intersection of sports and medicine to the importance of academics for student-athletes. We’ll talk about how women’s sports, especially basketball, are changing and what that means for upcoming players in terms of both potential and obstacles. We also had the opportunity to hear from Suzette, my daughter, who shared her passion for basketball and her aspirations for the future. Get ready for an engaging conversation about life, sports, and medicine, and how they all intersect to shape the future of athletics.

“Talent will get you so far but your work ethic has to meet your talent level at some point.” – Dr. Derrick Burgess

Topics Covered:

(00:01:12) Welcome to the Pull-Up Podcast Show

(00:03:13) All about Dr. Derrick Burgess

(00:05:34) Single Sports Specialization

(00:07:10) How Dr. Burgess developed his interest in medicine

(00:10:18) Prepare for life beyond sports

(00:13:22) Professional mentality and work ethic

(00:17:10) Advertisement: Are you prepared for life’s unexpected challenges? Dr. Stephanie Pearson and her team of skilled advisors at Pearson Ravitz are here to help you guard your most valuable asset. Go to https://pearsonravitz.com/ to make sure you are protected today.

(00:18:22) Suzette’s passion for Basketball

(00:23:21) Jackson State University’s women’s basketball performance

(00:26:48) The upcoming basketball matchups

Key Takeaways: 

“One thing we’re seeing now is single sports specialization, especially in basketball and in baseball where kids are playing that same sport and that’s setting them up many times for the overuse injuries.” – Dr. Derrick Burgess

” At some point, the ball is going to stop bouncing. You have to hang up the cleats and what’s next.” – Dr. Derrick Burgess

“I don’t discourage athletes, but I allow them to start thinking beyond the basketball court.” – Dr. Derrick Burgess

“It’s devastating when you’re dealing with 13- to 15-year-old young ladies and you’re telling them, hey, your knee will never be the same.” – Dr. Derrick Burgess

Connect with Dr. Derrick Burgess:

Website: https://www.drderrickthesportsdr.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderrickthesportsdr/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TimeOut.SportsDr

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-burgess-72047b246/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHGDu1zT4K_X6PnYELu8weg

Email: thesportsdoctr@gmail.com

This episode of TimeOut with the SportsDr. is produced by Podcast VAs Philippines – the team that helps podcasters effectively launch and manage their podcasts, so we don’t have to. Record, share, and repeat! Podcast VAs PH gives me back my time so I can focus on the core functions of my business. Need expert help with your podcast? Go to www.podcastvasph.com.