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Overseas Famous Newsletter
Tips for Athletes Transitioning After Sports & More
Kevin Owens
October 17, 2024
Hey Imports,
Welcome back to the Overseas Famous newsletter! We're here to bring you stories, advice, and opportunities from overseas athletes navigating life both on and off the court. Whether you’re still grinding or thinking about what’s next, we've got something for you this week.
Here’s what’s in store:
🏀 Overseas Life: Adapting to New Cultures as an Overseas Pro
Life overseas isn’t just about the game—it’s about adjusting to entirely new cultures. This week, we’re featuring an excerpt from our fearless leader Kevin Owens, who shares his experiences from playing in Australia, Poland, and Kosovo. From language barriers to figuring out new traditions, Kevin opens up about what it’s really like to adapt to life abroad:
"I was in a near-catatonic state when we pulled up to the make-shift restaurant that looked more like a cafeteria with long wooden tables and a group of people cutting up the long, delicious sticks of the burek. Stepping out of the cab, I turned to the driver to ask if he could wait for me since he knew where he had picked me up. By the time I opened the restaurant door and turned to make sure he was still there, all that was left was the cloud of exhaust. I took my place in the burek line.
Like Chipotle, one woman stood taking orders while the rest of the staff quickly chopped up the different pastries and put them on a tray as you moved along the glass partition quickly, paying at the end.
Finally, it was my turn. I had a toxic combination of hunger and anxiety, overtaking me as I stepped up to order.
“Çfarë doni?” the lady asked as I stared blankly at her. I smiled a big smile, thinking if she thought I was nice, she would understand I was an ignorant foreigner and just pass me my breakfast.
“Burek,” I replied.
“Doni të keni një të ëmbël? Ose do të donit mish, vezë dhe spinaq?” she asked.
Here we go again. I stared at her, smiled and repeated, “Burek.”
“Shkoj!” she shouted at me, waving her hand and shooing me down the line. The smile did not work as I had anticipated.
After what felt like an hour, the lunch lady slapped five large pieces of burek on the tray and shooed me along. The cashier must have witnessed my chaotic trip through the line. Not allowing me to make any more of a mockery, she shouted in broken English,
“Seventeen euro! You understand?”
I stood holding the money in my hand like Keanu Reeves’ character Marlon James in the 1990 movie I Love You to Death, another R-rated title I probably should not have been watching at ten years old. The angry lady snatched a 20 euro from my hand and dropped a few coins in return. I tried the smile again, and she shot me a face of pure disgust. Apparently, all the smiles in the world were not helping me win these people over. I took my tray and sat down to devour my expensive breakfast.
My hunger fog was lifted, and I began to have logical thoughts again. I realized I had absolutely no fucking idea where I was, and worse, had no idea how to get to where I was going."
📖 Like this excerpt? Purchase the Overseas Famous Book, where Kevin humorously breaks down the challenges of blending into a new culture while staying focused on the game.
🌍 Transitioning After Sports: Financial Planning for Athletes
Athletes often face uncertainty when their playing days are over. This week, we’re diving into financial planning, a key part of making a smooth transition.
💸Recently, Angel Reese, a rising star in women’s basketball, shared a video revealing that her salary wasn’t even enough to cover the cost of her apartment. It’s a reminder that, no matter your athletic status, financial stability can be fragile, and it can all change quickly.
Athletes often face pressure to live up to a certain lifestyle, but spending for status can lead to tough financial situations down the line. The truth is, it’s easy to lose control of your finances without the right guidance.
That’s why it’s so important to have the right people in your corner, who can help you make smart financial decisions and build a future beyond the game. Angel’s story is a lesson for all of us: managing your money wisely is key to long-term success.
💡 Takeaway: Build a team that’s invested in your future and make sure you’re living within your means.
As athletes, managing your money wisely is so important to securing your financial future. Here are 4 important steps to get started:
Live within your means: It’s tempting to spend big, but staying within your budget now will be worth it when you retire. Use that same discipline you used to become a pro, when it comes to irrational spending and overextending.
Create a budget now: Track your income and expenses so you can plan for the future. Even small adjustments can make a big difference over time.
Consult a financial advisor: Don’t do it alone! Find a professional to make the most of your earnings. The earlier you start, the better. We have a large network of financial agents, some who have played overseas.
Invest wisely for the long-term: Think beyond the short term…invest in assets that will grow over time and secure your post-career life. Follow the trends. CD’s are carrying large interest rates. Throw $10K or more into a 5% CD, and watch your money grow.
🔗 Read more on our Instagram post and start planning for the next chapter!
🧠 Mental Health Focus: Dealing with Homesickness as an Overseas Athlete
Being far from home is one of the toughest parts of playing abroad. Homesickness can affect your performance and mental well-being, but there are ways to manage it.
Here are 3 tips for overcoming homesickness:
Stay connected: Schedule regular calls with friends and family to stay grounded.
Create new routines: Find comfort in your new environment by creating daily routines.
Embrace the experience: Shift your mindset and see this as a chance to grow personally and professionally.
💡 Check out our latest Instagram post for more insights on dealing with homesickness while thriving in your career.
📢 Retired Athlete Spotlight: Chelsie Schweers Joins the Officiating World
Chelsie’s journey from playing to officiating is a testament to her deep connection with basketball and her willingness to embrace new challenges. After a decade of playing professionally overseas, including a particularly tough season in Portugal 🇵🇹 during Covid, she began thinking about the next steps. Coaching wasn’t for her, and with the uncertainty of another season overseas, she decided to try something different... officiating.
Chelsie always had a passion for the game, starting at age 5 and building an impressive career through AAU, college ball, and 10 years of pro hoops. When she attended officiating camps that summer, she knew she had found a new passion. Now, entering her 4th season as a college official, Chelsie is officiating all three divisions on the men’s side and continues to give back to the sport that shaped her.
We caught up with Chelsie to hear her thoughts:
"I was in my 10th season overseas in Portugal. I started thinking about what I wanted to do when I stopped playing basketball.
I had already tried out the college coaching route and I decided it wasn’t for me. During my last season overseas we were in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic. Life overseas during the pandemic was extremely challenging for me.
With contracts coming for the next season but being told we would still be without fans and take out only in restaurants. I was eager to try something new this off season.
What about becoming a referee? I know a lot about the game, it keeps me on the floor, and it will be another big challenge. I have played basketball since I was 5 years old. I started AAU when I was 9, played 4 years collegiately, and 10 years professionally. Becoming an official has taught me a completely different perspective of the game.
That summer after Portugal, I went to a few officiating camps and knew instantly I had found another passion.
I am starting my 4th season as an official. I will be officiating all 3 divisions on the men’s college side. I am looking forward to the season and continuing to grow the game I cherish so much."
💬 Want to get involved? Reach out to [email protected] and let’s talk about how you can support or collaborate!
🎧 Podcast Episode of the Week: Financial Planning for Athletes with Expert Jason Maile
This week on the Overseas Famous Podcast, we’re sitting down with Jason Maile, a financial advisor who specializes in helping athletes prepare for life after sports. We discuss:
Why budgeting during your playing career is crucial.
The importance of investing early and wisely.
Mistakes athletes make when planning for retirement—and how to avoid them.
Whether you’re just starting your career or nearing the end, this episode is packed with actionable financial advice to help you thrive long-term.
🎙️ Listen Now: https://youtu.be/J9bEj2XdSBs
💬 Support the Overseas Famous Mission!
We’re building something big here at Overseas Famous and need your help! Whether it’s growing our podcast or launching the upcoming community platform for overseas athletes, your support makes a difference.
Interested in contributing or partnering with us? Email us at [email protected] to learn more about funding opportunities and how you can get involved.
Until Next Week...
Thanks for tuning in! Stay connected, stay focused, and remember, life after sports is full of possibilities. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Cheers, Kevin Owens Founder, Overseas Famous