Written by Alessia Iannizzi
At OPSM, we don’t just represent footballers… we represent people. Our commitment isn’t solely to the careers of our athletes, but to the individuals behind them. We believe that long-term success begins with supporting the whole person, because performances, contracts, and achievements mean much less without the wellbeing of the individual behind them.
As we conclude the month of june which is Men’s Mental Health Month, we’re taking a moment to recognize the importance of conversations surrounding mental health and reaffirm our commitment to supporting our athletes both on and off the field. Raising awareness is an important step toward normalizing conversations around mental wellbeing and encouraging individuals to access support when they need it.
Professional football comes with incredible opportunities, but it also presents unique challenges. The pressure to perform, recover from setbacks, manage uncertainty, and constantly compete for opportunities can place a significant mental and emotional strain on players. These pressures often go unseen, yet they can have just as much impact as a physical injury.
“Mental health is just as important as physical training because your mindset impacts how you perform, handle pressure, and respond to setbacks. Having the right support system allows you to stay focused on your goals while managing the challenges that come with pursuing a high-level career. The support from OPSM helps provide stability and confidence, which reduces stress and allows me to focus on becoming the best athlete and person I can be.”
– Carson Starrett, Orlando City Acdemy
At OPSM, we believe that mental wellbeing is a vital part of long-term success. A supported player is better equipped to perform, grow, and navigate the highs and lows that come with a career in football.
“ The best investment we can make isn’t just in a player’s career… it’s in the person behind it. Success on the field begins with well-being off it, and that’s why supporting our players’ mental health will always be a priority at OPSM.”
— Jeffrey Adai, Co-Founder & CEO, OPSM
Our role extends beyond negotiating contracts or creating opportunities. We strive to build genuine relationships with every athlete we represent, ensuring they always have someone they can turn to for guidance, encouragement, or simply a conversation. We are committed to standing alongside our players every step of the way.
As Men’s Mental Health Month reminds us, strength isn’t measured by facing challenges alone. It’s found in asking for support, building trusted relationships, and creating environments where conversations about mental health are encouraged, not avoided.
At OPSM, we are proud to foster a culture where our players know they have the support of our team behind them.