For Sharon Roberts, sport was never just a game. It was identity, community, and a connection to home — first in County Cork, Ireland, where she played Gaelic football and camogie for her club and county, and then in Calgary, where she continued with the Calgary Chieftains.

But after a series of concussions, Sharon faced a question no coach had ever prepared her for: What do you do when your body tells you to stop, but everything you love asks you to keep going?

The Unspoken Rules of Toughness

Sharon grew up playing at a high level during an era when mental health in sport wasn't discussed — it was avoided.

"In my younger years, I would definitely say support was lacking. I was young and playing at a fairly high level, and I think I had this mentality of 'play through your injuries or concerns, otherwise you'll be perceived as weak.'"

That pressure — to always be available, always present, always sacrificing — became part of the culture she played within.

"There was always an underlying pressure of always being available and present at trainings, games, sacrificing your social life and even relationships to make it all work."

She didn't question it at the time. That was just sport. That was just what you did.

The Shift

It wasn't until Sharon arrived in Calgary that something began to shift. Playing with the Chieftains, she started to reflect on what truly mattered — to her, as a whole person, not just as an athlete.

"I loved my years of playing GAA, but I also know I gave many, many years to the sport. And now I have no guilt in enjoying my weekends and evenings again."

The concussions made the decision feel urgent — but the wisdom behind it had been building for years.

Stepping away wasn't giving up. It was listening. It was choosing health over habit, self over sport.

What Mental Readiness Means Now

Looking back, Sharon says she wasn't even aware of the term "mental readiness" during her peak years. The concept simply wasn't part of the conversation.

"As I reflect now, I'm certainly more aware of my mental readiness or mental health in general."

She recalls that when her mood was low, her performance followed. And when she felt carefree and well, she could play at a different level entirely.

"When worries are low and mood is high, I feel like I can play with almost a carefree mentality."

The connection between the mental and physical was always there. She just hadn't been given the language — or the permission — to talk about it.

What She Wishes Had Existed

When Sharon thinks about what a program like HONE might have meant to her younger self, the word she reaches for is: massive.

"Being able to tap into the resources available would have for sure led to an even better mental wellness experience. I'm glad that mental wellbeing is being discussed more and that the stigma around it is starting to shift."

She sees progress in the cultural conversation around sport and mental health — but knows there's still more ground to cover.

"I think it's getting there. Having more transparent conversations will always help — but it's hard. There's still some shame around it. Even small change is good."

Her Message to Athletes

"Be patient and kind to yourself. This can be hard — particularly if you're going through an injury or something like that. You'll make it through the other side. And invest the time and money into your mental wellbeing. It'll likely be some of the best money you'll spend on yourself."

Sharon's story is about recognizing when the bravest thing an athlete can do is take care of themselves — and about building a culture in sport where that choice is not just respected, but supported.

Want to Learn More?

If you’re a coach, sport leader, or organization looking to build sustainable high-performance cultures, we’d love to connect.

👉 Book a walkthrough with our team and learn how HONE supports athletes beyond the spotlight.

👉 Learn about the HONE MPC Pilot Program for Youth Athletes and Parents

Let’s build athletes who rise - and stay strong - long after the final play.