Enna Hassinen reflects on athletic challenges and early retirement in Oulu, Finland

Enna Hassinen, a 19-year-old pole vaulter from Oulu Pyrintö, faced a significant setback in her athletic career due to injuries and a lack of support. In 2014, following an injury sustained during a competition in Norway, she returned home with crutches. Her decision to retire was also influenced by the end of a long-term coaching relationship a year prior.

Hassinen expressed regret over not having support during this challenging time, noting, “I would have appreciated discussing solutions for continuing my career together.” She felt isolated, relying solely on her family after her coaching relationship ended.

She is not alone in experiencing early career termination due to external pressures. Research conducted by Oulu Pyrintö in collaboration with the Polish sports club AZS Lodz indicated that many young athletes cited academic and work commitments as reasons for quitting. Project coordinator Vili Ikonen emphasized that the demanding nature of balancing sports with these responsibilities has led to athletes feeling overwhelmed, especially when they move out and begin to support themselves.

The survey targeted individual sport athletes aged 15 to 22, incorporating responses from about 50 Finnish and 100 Polish participants. Findings revealed that some Finnish athletes felt a sense of hopelessness regarding their careers, while Polish athletes highlighted issues like stagnant performance and disagreements with coaches.

Experts suggest that a lack of communication between young athletes and their clubs contributes to premature exits from sports. Hassinen, now a member of Oulu Pyrintö’s board, recognizes improved support for young athletes compared to a decade ago, encouraging the sports community to be proactive in assisting those facing challenges. Despite her retirement, Hassinen made a brief comeback for two years, leaving her with positive memories of returning to competition.