In today’s dynamic labor market, the importance of early career preparation is becoming increasingly evident. Research reveals that 85% of young athletes aged 14 to 19 struggle to recognize their own skills and career preferences, and over 75% lack access to specialized resources supporting dual career development. Many athletes, upon completing their sports careers, face difficulties transitioning into professional life due to gaps in experience, a lack of transferable skills, and limited career guidance.

To address these challenges, the SMART START for DC project was developed under the Erasmus+ Programme, with the support of key organizations from six European countries. The project specifically targets young high school athletes, aiming to prepare them for a smooth transition from sports into the labor market. By offering a comprehensive system of psychological assessments, personalized job recommendations, and skill-building through Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), SMART START for DC empowers student-athletes to build strong, versatile career foundations early on.

This project directly supports the European Union’s priorities on dual careers in sport, digital transformation, and youth employment, ensuring that young athletes are equipped with the necessary competencies for long-term success both on and off the field.