Switch the Play Foundation is the UK’s only charity supporting athletes as they transition beyond professional sport. Through personalised mentoring, career guidance, learning & development programmes, and mental wellbeing support, we help athletes build the skills and confidence to thrive beyond sport.
Challenge yourself in 2026 and fundraise to help athletes thrive beyond sport
From the Brighton and Manchester Marathons to 10-mile runs, half marathons and two European cycle challenges, our 2026 calendar offers something for every challenger. Push your limits while fundraising for Switch the Play Foundation and helping athletes build positive futures beyond sport.
Bath Half Marathon
Starting and finishing in the heart of the World Heritage City of Bath, this flat, PB-friendly half marathon takes place on Sunday, 14th March 2027, taking you on a scenic route through the city supported by cheering crowds, live music and an electric race-day atmosphere. Charity places are available for £40 entry, with a £400 fundraising target in support of Switch the Play Foundation.
Great South Run - 10 miles
Take on the iconic Great South Run on Sunday, 18th October 2026. Starting in Southsea, Portsmouth, this fast, flat 10-mile coastal route offers sea views, live music and an electric atmosphere to keep you going from start to finish. Charity places are £20 entry with a £300 fundraising target in support of Switch the Play Foundation.
Brighton Marathon
Be part of the UK’s third largest marathon on Sunday, 4th April 2027. Starting in Preston Park and finishing on the Brighton seafront, this vibrant course combines coastal views with cheering crowds and an unbeatable race-day atmosphere. Charity places are available for £40 entry, with a minimum fundraising target of £600 in support of Switch the Play Foundation.
Shaping Life After Rugby
Champions 2003 and Switch the Play have joined forces to transform life after rugby for professional players. Through mentoring, wellbeing support and career development, we're helping athletes thrive off the pitch and build exciting new futures.
FIND OUT MORERedefining Life After Sport
Discover real stories from athletes who have navigated the transition beyond sport. Hear their experiences and insights to better understand what to expect and how to prepare for your next chapter.
Who we work with
Sportspeople
Players and athletes across all sports, at any stage of their career. It’s never too early to prepare.
Sporting Organisations
Those who have a duty of care to sportspeople including national governing bodies, sports organisations, player care managers, coaches and parents.
Corporate Partners
Partners support and help develop our programmes through funding and the creation of opportunities for the sportspeople that we work with.
Latest news
Switch the Play takes on 20-mile challenge with partner YOUR PT to support athletes
Switch the Play joined partner YOUR Personal Training for the Race Across the Gower Challenge, taking on a demanding 20-mile route across the stunning Welsh coastline to raise awareness and support for athletes building their next chapter beyond professional sport.
Switch the Play and Champions 2003 Foundation launch new Player Support Fund to help former rugby players thrive beyond the game
New grants of up to £10,000 will help to remove financial barriers to training, education and professional qualifications, supporting rugby players preparing for successful careers beyond sport.
England Futsal join forces with Switch the Play to provide athletes with support for life in performance sport
Switch the Play is delighted to announce a brand-new partnership with England Futsal, providing athletes across their, 'Performance Pathway' with access to mentoring and personal development opportunities that will support them to thrive in sport and beyond.
Want to be kept in the loop?
Sign up to our monthly newsletter for the latest news, inspiring athlete stories, programme updates, events and ways you can get involved in supporting athletes beyond sport.
SubscribeOur Partners
Who we work with