We Need to Talk About Who Sport Psychology Still Misses

Key points

Marshawn Kneeland’s death reminds us that athlete mental health must be addressed proactively, not reactively.

Despite sport psych’s growth, men, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and young athletes still face major barriers to care.

Stigma, lack of representation, and poor access keep too many athletes from seeking needed support.

True progress in sport psych means building safe, inclusive, and accessible systems for every athlete.

The death of Marshawn Kneeland is a tragic reminder that athletes, even those rising to the top of their game, are human beings first. The best highlight reels can mask the weight of expectations and the psychological pain many athletes carry in silence. Sport psychology holds the power to support athletes as they navigate these pressures and sustain both their pe