Why Every Athlete Needs a Will (and a Plan)

When we think about endurance training, nutrition, or performance metrics, estate planning is probably the last thing on our minds. Yet as athletes who spend hours on the road, trail, or in the water, we put ourselves in situations where accidents and emergencies can happen.

That’s why this Find Your Edge episode features attorney Erin Edgar, “The Caring Attorney,” on why athletes (yes, even young and healthy ones!) should take estate planning seriously.

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Why Estate Planning Matters for Athletes

Most athletes are focused on their next race, training block, or fueling plan. But what happens if you’re in an accident tomorrow? Who makes your medical decisions? Who receives your hard-earned assets—from your bike collection to your home and retirement accounts?

Without a plan, state laws—not you—decide. And often, that leaves families unprepared, stressed, and sometimes in conflict. Estate planning isn’t just about money—it’s about values, care, and leaving a legacy, according to Erin.

Beyond Online Templates: Why a Customized Will Matters

Online forms don’t ask the right questions. They don’t know your family dynamics or whether your spouse is the best healthcare decision-maker.
They don’t update as your life changes. Marriage, divorce, kids, stepchildren, new assets—these all require updates.
They don’t capture your values. Planning is more than dividing assets; it’s passing down wisdom, supporting causes, and protecting the people you love.

What Athletes Should Consider in an Estate Plan

Emergency scenarios: If you’re hit by a car on a ride or collapse during training, who makes medical decisions?
Property & assets: From houses to bikes to investment accounts—where do they go?
Nontraditional families: Partners, stepchildren, and loved ones can be excluded without a will.
Healthcare directives: Do you want aggressive treatment, nutrition support, or specific medical interventions?

Erin’s Athlete-Friendly Process

Protect You & Yours Consultation (20 minutes): Intro call to ensure a good fit.
Two-Hour Deep Dive: A thorough session exploring assets, concerns, values, and goals.
Customized Plan: Wills, powers of attorney, HIPAA documents, trusts, and more—tailored to you.
Guidance for Loved Ones: Clear support for executors and family when it’s needed most.

“I help people do more work on the front end so their families have less work to do on the back end.” — Erin Edgar

Estate Planning Is a Gift to Your Family

Think of estate planning as another form of training discipline. Just like you prepare your body for performance, you prepare your loved ones for peace of mind. It’s an act of love—and a powerful way to ensure your legacy reflects who you are.

Quick Actions You Can Take Today

Start the conversation with your loved ones.
Write down your intentions—financial and personal.
Work with an attorney who understands athletes and can guide real-world scenarios.
Carry and emergency contact card when you run, bike, swim or race, or something like a Road ID.

Want to work with Erin, and you’re located in NC? Contact here here: https://erinedgarlegal.com/