Nike Introduces GameOn: A Career Pathway for Athletes Transitioning to New Roles.

Global sportswear giant Nike has unveiled GameOn, a career initiative designed to support athletes as they transition into post-sports careers. This program offers a full year of professional development at Nike’s headquarters in Beaverton, Oregon, aiming to equip athletes with the skills and experiences needed to succeed across diverse industries. GameOn will launch its first cohort on February 4, 2025, and is open to all athletes, with a special emphasis on promoting disability inclusion in partnership with the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC).

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Nike's leadership recognizes the unique skills athletes bring to the workplace and seeks to harness these abilities in roles that go beyond sports. “At Nike, we believe in the power of sport to move the world forward,” said James Loduca, Nike’s VP and Chief Diversity Officer. “Our mission is to level the playing field, providing access to sport for all and expanding career opportunities for those who bring a passion for athletic excellence.”

The GameOn program was announced at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, where over 4,000 elite athletes competed. By launching GameOn at this global event, Nike underscored its commitment to inclusivity and support for athletes of all abilities. The initiative specifically encourages Paralympic athletes to apply, recognizing the potential impact of their resilience, discipline, and advocacy for disability rights in diverse fields.

Dr. Cheri Blauwet, a three-time Paralympian and Chairperson of the International Paralympic Committee Medical Commission, exemplifies the mission behind GameOn. Reflecting on her transition from competitive sports to medicine, Blauwet highlighted the value of a strong foundation for athletes entering new fields. “Paralympic athletes are shifting perceptions and inspiring change, and initiatives like GameOn are crucial as we redefine what athletes can achieve beyond competition.”

Participants in GameOn will gain hands-on experience and access to Nike’s innovative culture. Through rotations across departments such as inclusive design, business strategy, and global markets, athletes will engage in a range of learning experiences that translate their athletic strengths into practical skills for diverse careers. The program also offers benefits and relocation assistance for those needing to move to Beaverton, easing the transition to new professional roles.

For many athletes, GameOn represents an opportunity to channel their drive and discipline into meaningful careers outside of competitive sports. By connecting sports experience with career development, Nike’s GameOn initiative supports athletes’ post-sports aspirations, promoting not only inclusivity but also the idea that athletic skillsets can create lasting impact across multiple industries.