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THE BLACK DIAMOND NEWSROOM
The people we work with are more than a headline, a statistic, or a role. Explore client features, career news, conversations from the Black Diamond Podcast, and perspectives from our team.


*SPKN EXCLUSIVE* The Athlete Identity Trap: Navigating self-concept and mental health in extended NFL career pursuits
By: Dr. Brandy Runyan This study explored the persistence of undrafted football players who continue to pursue National Football League (NFL) careers five or more years beyond their draft class. Despite systemic barriers and long odds, these athletes remain deeply committed to training, competing, and promoting themselves in pursuit of their professional goals. Guided by goal-setting theory, self-determination theory, and the constructs of resilience and grit, a qualitative p

Dr. Brandy Runyan
7 hours ago1 min read


The Psychology of the Upset: What Happens When Good Teams Start Falling Apart?
The Psychology of the Upset: What Happens When Good Teams Start Falling Apart?

Dr. Brandy Runyan
4 days ago7 min read


Dream Teams: When the Jersey You Grew Up Wearing Becomes the One With Your Name on It
Dream Teams: When the Jersey You Grew Up Wearing Becomes the One With Your Name on It

Black Diamond Staff
Oct 24 min read


The Cost of Unethical Agent Poaching in Football
An athlete’s uncertainty should never become another agent’s sales strategy.

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Oct 14 min read


How to Find a CFL Agent | Black Diamond
Learn how to find a CFL agent, verify CFLPA credentials, prepare your football film, compare representation, and avoid costly mistakes before signing.

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Oct 18 min read


Game-Changing Bonds: The Power of Relationships Between Football Free Agents and Their Agents
In the fast-paced world of pro sports, the bond between free agent American football players and their agents is crucial. It's more than just business; it's about solid communication. Whether they're shooting emails, chatting on the phone, texting, or meeting face-to-face, keeping the conversation flowing is key to a winning partnership. Good communication is like the glue that holds everything together. It helps both sides understand each other's goals, dreams, and needs. Wh

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Mar 18, 20242 min read


Inception of Article 28.1 CFL Collective Bargaining Agreement & the Importance of Working with a Licensed Agent
Collaborating with a licensed football agent is paramount for any aspiring football player navigating the intricate realm of professional sports. These agents serve as indispensable intermediaries between players and teams, overseeing negotiations, contracts, endorsements, and other pivotal aspects of a player's career. The significance of partnering with a licensed agent cannot be emphasized enough, as they bring professionalism, expertise, and legal protection to the forefr

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Feb 24, 20245 min read


Embracing Strength: Nurturing Positive Body Image in Female Athletes
Maintaining a positive body image isn't just about looking good; it's about feeling good and thriving in every aspect of an athlete's life, regardless of gender. Female athletes, in particular, face unique challenges and stereotypes that make nurturing this outlook crucial. Don't believe me? Ask any female athlete. The pressure is on and everyone is looking. At least that is what it feels like. How should female athletes adjust their mindset to feel more empowered while culti

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Feb 8, 20242 min read


The Hidden Struggles of Chasing Unattainable Sports Dreams: A Look into the Mental Health Implications
The Hidden Struggles of Chasing Unattainable Sports Dreams: A Look into the Mental Health Implications

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Jan 3, 20243 min read


The Essential Role of Mental Health Research in Secondary Professional Football Leagues
Football, widely celebrated as a captivating sport, enthralls countless fans globally. Beyond the glamour of elite leagues like the NFL and European championships, secondary professional football leagues are crucial for athlete development and community representation. Recently, the significance of mental health research in these leagues has gained increasing attention. This article delves into the reasons why such research is critical in secondary professional football. Rais

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Dec 17, 20232 min read


Reviving a Legacy: How the Chicago Blackhawks' Remarkable Turnaround Holds Lessons for Modern Sports Organizations
In the ever-evolving landscape of professional sports, the ability of sports organizations to adapt, innovate, and turn their fortunes around is more critical than ever. The story of the Chicago Blackhawks serves as a remarkable case study in the potential for revival and reinvention, even when facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. The Blackhawks' Darkest Days In 2007, the Chicago Blackhawks were a far cry from their glory days. The passing of owner Bill Wirtz left the

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Dec 13, 20233 min read


The Dark Side of Professional Football: Addressing Exploitation of Players
Professional football is a multi-billion dollar industry, with players being some of the highest-paid athletes in the world. However, behind the glitz and glamour of the industry, there is a dark side of exploitation that is often overlooked. Football players, especially those in lower leagues or in developing countries, are vulnerable to exploitation by clubs, agents, and other parties involved in the industry. In this micro-article, we will explore the exploitation of profe

Dr. Brandy Runyan
May 16, 20232 min read


The Dangers of Overtraining in Professional Athletes: Physical and Mental Health Implications
Overtraining syndrome is a condition that affects professional athletes who engage in excessive training without adequate rest and recovery time. This article gives a small glimpse into the negative impacts of overtraining on the physical and mental health of athletes. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of overtraining and taking proactive steps to prevent it. Professional athletes are known for their dedication to their sport. However, this dedication can

Dr. Brandy Runyan
May 14, 20232 min read


Upholding Ethical Standards in Sport Management: The Importance of Fairness, Respect, and Accountability
Sport management involves the planning, organizing, and administration of sports programs and events. It is a rapidly growing field that has become increasingly complex, with a wide range of ethical issues that must be considered. In this article, we will explore the role of ethics in sport management and the importance of ethical behavior in creating a positive sporting culture. The Importance of Ethics in Sport Management Ethics are the principles and values that guide huma

Dr. Brandy Runyan
May 13, 20232 min read


The Phenomenon of Identity Foreclosure in Professional Football Players
Identity foreclosure is a psychological term used to describe a phenomenon where an individual adopts an identity without exploration or consideration of alternative options. This phenomenon can occur in any profession, including professional football players. In this paper, we will examine the concept of identity foreclosure and how it can manifest in professional football players. Professional football players often experience pressure to adopt a particular identity that al

Dr. Brandy Runyan
May 12, 20232 min read


Mental Health Matters: Strategies for Maintaining Mental Wellness Among Football Players
Mental Health Matters: Strategies for Maintaining Mental Wellness Among Football Players

Dr. Brandy Runyan
May 11, 20232 min read


Female Football Players: Inspiring Positive Role Models for Young Girls
Female Football Players: Inspiring Positive Role Models for Young Girls

Dr. Brandy Runyan
May 10, 20232 min read


Discrimination of Female Football Agents:
Discrimination of Female Football Agents:

Dr. Brandy Runyan
May 8, 20232 min read


10,000 Hours
10,000 Hours

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Aug 12, 20201 min read


Ethics & Social Responsibility in Sports
Ethics & Social Responsibility in Sports

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Aug 2, 20203 min read
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