Beyond Stigma: Mental Health in Women's College Sports jobs and careers

About Beyond Stigma: Mental Health in Women's College Sports

Beyond Stigma is a four-part documentary series that exposes the mental health crisis facing women’s college athletes, examining the cult-like regimentation of college sports and its roots in today’s commercialized youth sports pipeline. Drawing on powerful stories from current and former athletes, parents, coaches, and leading experts, the series reveals how a win-at-all-costs culture, body shaming, overuse injuries, and relentless time demands strip athletes of identity and joy. Created by Steve McWilliams, Linda Flanagan, Carly Ellman, Rick Eckstein, Ed Hastings, and Drew Peezick. Beyond Stigma goes beyond awareness to spotlight structural fixes—from NCAA accountability and less abusive coaching practices to rethinking pay-to-play youth sports and early specialization. The project’s goal is simple and urgent: to help create sports environments where girls and women can compete, grow, and thrive without sacrificing their mental health.