In this profile, Scott focuses on meeting players where they are, and at their particular point of need.
The NFL Transition Coach program uses a peer-to-peer coaching model that empowers trained NFL Legends to serve as mentors, supporters and sounding boards for players transitioning out of the NFL. NFL Total Wellness provides at least 70 hours of training for Transition Coaches to give them the skills to build relationships with transitioning players and to identify when individuals are struggling or need additional support. This interview series briefly profiles the coaches who assist players navigating the challenges of life after the game.
Scott Galbraith was a tight end for the Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys, Washington Redskins, and Green Bay Packers. He was part of the Super Bowl XXVIII championship team over the Buffalo Bills in 1993. He is now a Chaplain of the Sacramento Kings and a licensed pastor. Scott has been a Transition Coach since 2012. In this profile, we have drafted a narrative based on a small section of Scott’s responses to three important questions.
"I probably learn more than I give them. I'm a sounding board not a mentor…In the easiest term, I'm a friend that doesn't know more than you, it just happened to me before you did…We find out what the player needs, and we help walk them through it. Not doing it for them."
A Transition Coach walks alongside players as they make their initial transition out of the NFL. Scott explains that this occurs by consistently supporting players across both triumphs and setbacks. Recognizing that the process of transition is a part of life, Scott focuses on meeting players where they are, and at their particular point of need. He particularly values the opportunity to provide emotional support and utilizing his training to offer a safe space for the many experiences that players must navigate during this time.
"One of the first things I tell transitioning players is to communicate to family that they’re really trying to downsize. 'I want you to help me make the transition out of the NFL.' Say it and ask for the person to assist you, emotionally."
Reflecting on his own transition, Scott acknowledges his own difficulty communicating his emotions to friends and family. As a result, he emphasizes the importance of communication during this time of change. For many, life after the NFL will require a player to downsize and adjust their spending accordingly. Communication and asking for support from family can decrease the level of financial expectation that may have existed during their playing career.
"I'm a pastor by profession…Since receiving my Transition Coach training on emotional management, I find most of my preaching has shifted into being more therapeutic, more psychology-based, and dealing with managing emotions."
Scott emphasizes the extensive training that Transition Coaches complete to develop the skills to work in this capacity, sharing that he has been able to integrate these skills into other areas of his life. He is excited about the opportunity to continue to serve the former player community in this way.
