The 98%ers

 

 

 

As I look around the track industry, the majority of time I only see the 1 to 2% of sprint athletes dominating the market place, when it comes to public exposure, endorsements and rewards. It makes you  wonder, where is the  98% of athletic sprinters that make up the industry, what are they doing to stay relevant in sprinting. Do these athletes only train, what about their competitive market to stay relevant?

A few weeks ago I posted a comment on Instagram stating some facts about the percentage of athlete that make it to become elite sprinters.

The percentage of sprint athletes who make it to professionalism is relatively small. According to various sources, including the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), here are some rough estimates:

1. High school sprinters: About 1-2% of high school sprinters in the United States will go on to compete at the NCAA level.


2. NCAA sprinters: About 1-2% of NCAA sprinters will turn professional and compete at the international level.


3. Professional sprinters: About 0.1-0.5% of professional sprinters will win a major international medal (e.g., Olympic Games, World Championships).

So, if we assume that there are approximately 100,000 high school sprinters in the United States, the rough estimates would be:

- 1,000-2,000 (1-2%) will compete at the NCAA level
- 10-20 (1-2%) will turn professional and compete at the international level
- 1-5 (0.1-0.5%) will win a major international medal



Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and the actual numbers may vary depending on various factors, such as the country, and the level of competition.

These numbers are as close to the market place as your going to get so, that goes to say. What are the other 98% of talented sprint athletes doing outside of coaching, youth mentorship or some other profession in sports? The numbers are smaller that find jobs in the athletic industry therefore, they must leave their talent, accumulated knowledge, relationships and forge a new career.

 

I really don't want to focus on the 2%ers that the market speaks for... Sponsors, advertisers, corporations are all willing to throw money at their feet but, the real market and story is in the 98%ers. The athletes who don't become elite or professional sprinters possess an unique power in several ways:

1. Diverse skill sets: Many athletes have transferable skills, such as discipline, hard work, and teamwork, which can be valuable in various careers and aspects of life.


2. Community engagement: Non-elite athletes often participate in local sports clubs, leagues, and events, contributing to community development and social cohesion.


3. Inspirational stories: Their journeys, though not culminating in professional success, can inspire others to pursue their passions and strive for excellence.

 



4. Role models: They can serve as relatable role models for young athletes, demonstrating the importance of perseverance, dedication, and sportsmanship.


5. Support network: Non-elite athletes can form a supportive community for one another, sharing experiences and advice to help each other grow.

Visit our forum and keep the conversation going

 
6. Personal growth: The lessons learned and personal growth achieved through sports participation can benefit them throughout their lives.


7. Amateur competition: They help maintain a competitive and vibrant amateur sports scene, which is essential for the development of sports as a whole.


8. Volunteerism: Many non-elite athletes give back to their communities by volunteering, coaching, or mentoring, perpetuating a positive cycle of giving and growth.

These athletes may not achieve fame or fortune, but their contributions to society are invaluable.They are very much alive and active. Sprint Battle knows that these sprint athletes have a special talent that the world wants more of and Sprint Battle is willing to bring water into the desert (Isiah 43:19).

 

Do you see a sports market for the 98%ers in sprinting? 


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