As player advocates, we see our primary responsibility as protecting the welfare of our clients and preparing them financially and emotionally for a long period of retirement. This is particularly important since many pro footballers sign their first contract while still in their teens and have little life experience and a sudden infusion of cash. Our contributions can include instilling good money management habits and steering clients toward trustworthy financial managers and away from shady “investments.” An agent in a good relationship with a client can often be a parental figure who’s always ready to listen and to offer gentle guidance, and as parents, we know what’s in the best interest of the young player.