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When transitioning out of their playing days, many athletes struggle with figuring out who they are outside of their sport—a phase commonly called “identity foreclosure.” Some have already spent time discovering themselves, while others may feel lost and need help finding their way.

Black athletes may especially struggle with identity foreclosure, says Brandon Crooms, Ph.D., who teaches sport management courses at �԰�����.

“Research has shown there is a direct correlation and association of racial identity and athletic identity amongst Black athletes,” Crooms says. “Essentially, that means a lot of young [Black] athletes have this expectation for them to be exceptional athletes because of the expectation that’s been placed on them by society.”

The relationship between racial identity and athletic identity is one area of Crooms’ research. As a minister, Crooms is especially interested in how the Christian faith affects that relationship; if athletes can place some of their self-worth in faith, how does that change their athletic identities?

For his research, as well as his work at �԰����� and in the community, Crooms was honored with a San Antonio Business Journal 40 Under 40 award this past spring. The award recognizes young business and community leaders making an impact on San Antonio.

Crooms is one such leader, offering motivational speaking, coaching, consulting, development, and mentoring for young athletes through his business, . He has also held virtual worldwide summits for leaders in athletics, mentored youth in Cape Town, and is currently working with the �԰����� men's basketball team on holistic identity and personal development.

“We talk about being disciplined, being proactive, and having purpose,” Crooms says. “I want to focus on them being successful, not just as athletes but also as students, and as students who are preparing themselves beyond their sport.”