Student Athletes' Perceptions Of Academic Support, Career Support And Personal Support

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to explore the perceptions of student athletes
concerning self identity, academic support, career support, and personal support.
Qualitative methodology was used to gather information through in-depth focus groups.
Participants were male and female student athletes from a mid-size Midwestern Public
University.
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Findings indicated there is an inherent struggle to balance multiple roles with one
usually elevated over the other. Second, participants appreciated the academic support of
the university, but indicated its influence ranged from extremely helpful and appreciated
(Athletic Academic Support Staff) to moderately helpful (Major Specific Academic
Advisors) to least helpful (Regular Academic Advisors). Third, participants
acknowledged that misunderstandings hinder faculty-student athlete relationships;
improving these relationships is valuable for future success. Participants appreciated
support from coaches regarding transition from sport to career but coaches do not possess
the expertise that career counselors may offer in preparation for life after athletics.
Recommendation for future research and implications for practice are included in
the discussion of the study.

Date of Award	2011
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Richard Roberts (Supervisor)