Olympians' Hustle: Balancing Dreams and Finances

Olympians face a unique challenge - balancing the demands of elite-level training and competition with the need to earn a living. With most Olympic sports offering little to no financial support, these athletes must get creative to fund their dreams. From side gigs to entrepreneurial ventures, the stories of how Olympians make ends meet offer a fascinating glimpse into the realities of pursuing greatness on the world stage.

Powering Through the Grind: Olympians' Unconventional Paths to Funding Their Dreams

Exchanging Housework and Child Care for Rent

Many Olympians have found innovative ways to alleviate the financial burden of training and competing. Rowers like Grace Luczak have turned to local communities, placing ads seeking housing in exchange for services like babysitting. This "foreign exchange student" model allowed athletes to focus on their training while reducing the strain of rent and living expenses. Skeleton athlete Andrew Blaser even delivered notices to his neighbors about outstanding balances in exchange for discounted rent, highlighting the creative lengths these athletes go to make ends meet.

Side Gigs That Don't Take Much Effort

Supplementary jobs that provide flexibility and minimal physical or mental exertion are essential for Olympians. Rowers like Luczak found success in part-time retail and dog-walking, while Paralympic soccer player Adam Ballou balanced roles as a shoe salesman, referee, and English tutor. The key is finding work that doesn't interfere with the demanding training schedules required to compete at the highest level.

Double-Duty: Jobs That Help With Training

Some athletes have found ways to turn their sport into a source of income. Trampoliner Logan Dooley leveraged his skills as a freelance entertainer, performing at galas, parties, and events. This not only provided a steady income but also helped him develop the confidence and performance skills that translated to his competitive success. Rower Luczak later found a job as an instructor for the fitness platform Hydrow, allowing her to stay connected to her sport while earning a living.

Full-Time "Real" Jobs: Real Estate or Entrepreneurship?

For some Olympians, the path to financial stability involves pursuing traditional careers. Swimmers like Hunter Armstrong have found success in real estate, leveraging their strong work ethic and diverse skill sets. Paralympic swimmer Jamal Hill, on the other hand, has focused on building his own brand and business, recognizing the importance of diversifying his income streams. By aligning his personal brand with his athletic pursuits, Hill has been able to create a sustainable and profitable model that supports his Olympic ambitions.

You Have to Make the Money to Make It to the Olympics

The reality is that most Olympians must hustle to fund their dreams. Endorsements, scholarships, and stipends from governing bodies provide some support, but are often insufficient. Athletes like Andrew Blaser have found themselves working 70 to 80 hours a week, juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet. The notion of the Olympics as an endeavor for amateur athletes is quickly fading, as the financial demands of elite-level competition continue to grow. While some Olympians are compensated as professionals, the majority still face significant financial challenges, highlighting the need for more comprehensive support systems to ensure that the pursuit of athletic excellence is accessible to all.