Commonwealth Sport: Mentoring Matters

Marking the transition from Athlete Mentor development to mentor–mentee partnerships across the Commonwealth Club

Across the Commonwealth, something quietly powerful has been taking shape.

Over the past few months, a group of Athlete Mentors have come together—some recently retired, others further along in their journey beyond sport. Each bringing different experiences, perspectives, and stories, but united by a shared intention: to support others.

This week marks the end of the formal learning phase of the Athlete Mentor Programme - Common Ground, led by e.t.c on behalf of Commonwealth Sport. And while it signals the end of one chapter, it represents the beginning of something even more meaningful.

A Commitment to Innovation in Athlete Support

This programme reflects a growing commitment from Commonwealth Sport to think differently about how athletes are supported—not just in performance, but as people.

By investing in mentoring, they are helping to create spaces where athletes can connect, reflect, and grow through shared experience. It is an approach grounded in relationships, and one that recognises the value of lived experience—particularly from those who have navigated the transitions that others are now facing.

This is not just a programme. It is an intentional step towards building a more connected and human-centred sporting environment.

A Foundation Built With Care

Since the programme began, our athlete mentors have engaged in a rich and thoughtful learning journey.

Through a blend of online modules, live webinars, and reflective practice—hosted on the digital platform provided by MiMentor—they have:

• explored what mentoring is—and what it is not

• developed core skills such as listening, questioning, and offering feedback

• reflected on their own experiences and how these shape the way they show up for others

• begun to define their own mentoring approach and philosophy

The platform has acted as more than just a place to access content. It has been a shared home for the programme—housing the online courses while also creating a dedicated community space to support conversations, foster connection, and promote curiosity across the group.

What has stood out throughout is the level of care, openness, and curiosity the mentors have brought to this environment. They have not rushed to have the answers. Instead, they have leaned into learning how to be present, how to listen, and how to support.

Importantly, this phase has been about the mentors coming together—building their understanding, their confidence, and their readiness—before stepping into mentoring relationships.

Recognising the Mentors

To each of our athlete mentors: thank you.

Thank you for the energy and intention you have brought to this experience. Many of you have balanced this alongside training, competition, and life beyond sport—yet you have shown up consistently, with a genuine willingness to grow.

The diversity of your journeys—whether recently retired or further removed from competition—adds real depth to this programme. It means the support you offer will be grounded in empathy, perspective, and lived experience.

You are now stepping into a role that carries real responsibility and real potential.

Not to have all the answers, but to create space for others.

From Preparation to Partnership

With the formal learning phase now complete, we move into the next stage of the journey.

Mentor–mentee partnerships are beginning to form.

For many of our mentors, this will be the first time they step into a structured mentoring relationship. It is a moment of both excitement and uncertainty—and that is exactly as it should be.

Because mentoring is not about getting it “right.” It is about showing up with intent, building trust over time, and creating a space where meaningful conversations can happen.

It is within these partnerships that the real impact of the programme will begin to unfold.

Entering a Community of Practice

As mentors begin working with their mentees, they will continue to be supported through a Community of Practice.

This is not another formal course. Instead, it is a space designed to support learning in action.

Through regular “Coffee & Connect” conversations and ongoing engagement—supported by the community features within MiMentor—mentors will have the opportunity to:

• share their experiences and challenges

• learn from one another across different contexts and cultures

• reflect on what is working—and where they are being stretched

• continue to develop their mentoring practice over time

Because mentoring is not something you complete. It is something you continue to grow into.

Looking Ahead

There is real energy behind what is emerging here.

This programme brings together athlete experience, intentional learning design, and a clear commitment from Commonwealth Sport to do things differently.

As mentor–mentee partnerships begin, there is an opportunity to create something that extends far beyond individual conversations—a culture where athletes feel supported, connected, and understood.

For now, we take a moment to recognise the journey so far.

And then, we look ahead.

Because this is where the real work begins.

#MentoringMatters #CommonGround #CommonwealthSport