4,129 results on '"College athletics"'
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2. College Athletics: Education Should Improve Its Title IX Enforcement Efforts. Report to Congressional Requesters. GAO-24-105994
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US Government Accountability Office (GAO) and Melissa Emrey-Arras
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Title IX prohibits sex discrimination in educational programs that receive federal financial assistance, including college athletics programs. Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is responsible for enforcing Title IX by investigating complaints, negotiating agreements with colleges to address concerns, and monitoring agreements. US Government Accountability Office (GAO) was asked to review opportunities for women college athletes. This report examines (1) college athletic opportunities for women and (2) the extent to which Education oversees compliance with Title IX college athletics requirements. GAO analyzed the most recent available Education data reported by colleges for academic year 2021-2022 and analyzed OCR case management data for academic years 2008-2009 through 2021-2022, the most recent data available. GAO reviewed documentation for a nongeneralizable sample of 26 of 79 publicly available OCR athletics cases, selected to include a variety of athletics issues. GAO also interviewed Education officials and college athletic stakeholder groups, and reviewed federal laws and regulations.
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- 2024
3. Exploring the Imperative for Implementing Sports Development Officer Roles
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Crisanto V. Cipriano
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This integrative literature review explores the imperative for implementing Sports Development Officer (SDO) roles within higher education institutions (HEIs). The review synthesizes existing literature to highlight the importance of sports development in promoting holistic student development, enhancing campus culture, and fostering essential life skills. It underscores the need for dedicated SDO positions to address the evolving demands of sports management, provide strategic leadership, and optimize resource allocation. Best practices and innovations in sports management, including leveraging technology and promoting diversity in sports participation, are identified, offering valuable insights for HEIs. The review also discusses policy implications, advocating for institutional commitment to sports development and the professionalization of sports management through curriculum integration. By prioritizing sports development and embracing evidence-based practices, HEIs can enrich the student experience, promote well-being, and cultivate vibrant campus communities. This review provides actionable recommendations for policymakers, university administrators, and sports management professionals to harness the transformative power of sports within HEIs.
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- 2024
4. Understanding Academic and Athletic Transfer Patterns for Latina/o College Athletes
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Guillermo Ortega
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Using the Student Athlete Climate Dataset, this paper examined factors associated with Latina/o college athletes' intent to transfer for academic and athletic reasons. This study offers insight regarding how gender, NCAA Division, and geographic location can influence Latina/o college athletes' decision to transfer. In addition, the roles of faculty members and head coaches were significant in Latina/o college athletes' intent to transfer for athletic reasons.
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- 2024
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5. Institutional Effects of Adding Football: A Difference-in-Difference Analysis
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Welch Suggs, Alex B. Monday, Jennifer May-Trifiletti, and James C. Hearn
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Football teams draw the largest crowds of any American collegiate sport, and with them, both positive and negative attention for colleges and universities. Nearly 50 colleges have added the sport recently, but little research has examined the institutional effects of adding a team. Some of these institutions are regional research universities adding the sport as part of broad plans to transform campus identities, while at smaller public and private institutions, adding a football team (with approximately 100 members) appears to be an attempt to boost racial diversity and the number of male students. This study uses difference-in-difference models to find that adding a football team appears to have a significant, but short-term, effect on enrollment and tuition revenue. The long-term effects of adding the sport do not appear to be statistically significant. This raises questions about the costs and benefits of adding football at a time when higher education faces significant challenges attracting students.
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- 2024
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6. Graduate Prospects Explain Undergraduate Program Standing in University League Sports Science Tables
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Ole J. Kemi, Victoria Penpraze, Nairn Scobie, and Niall G. Macfarlane
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UK university undergraduate programs are compared by independent subject-specific rankings (Complete, Guardian, and Times), based on data from the National Student Survey, Higher Education Statistics Agency, Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, Research Excellence Framework, and the universities. The sports and exercise science program at the University of Glasgow has steadily risen to currently rank as the top UK program. This investigation aimed to identify the underlying factors that explain this. Therefore, we obtained underlying scores for entry standard, student satisfaction, research foundation, graduate prospects, staff-to-student ratio, expenditure/student, continuation, program support to students, and teaching quality from the ranking providers for years 2010-2024, and statistically modeled which factors significantly affected the rankings. We found that entry standards and graduate prospects strongly correlated significantly with ranking results. Principal component analysis indicated that a model of graduate prospects and entry standards explained 66.2% of the variance in ranking results. Multiple linear regression with all underlying factors included in the model indicated they explained 78% (R[superscript 2] = 0.78) of the total variance, while stepwise elimination of insignificant factors identified graduate prospects as the sole factor that significantly affected outcome by explaining 71% (R[superscript 2] = 0.71) of the variance. Therefore, the primary predictor of ranking success in UK university league tables for sports science is graduates' professional success (graduate prospects).
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- 2024
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7. Investigation of the Effect of University Sports Environment on Academic Motivation
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Çingöz, Yunus Emre and Altug, Tolga
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The aim of this study is to examine the effect of university sports environment perception on academic motivation. A total of 206 students studying at various faculties of Bayburt University participated in the research. In the study, the "Personal Information Form" created by the researchers to determine the demographic information of university students, the "University Sports Environment Scale" to determine the university sports environment, and the "Academic Motivation Scale" to determine the academic motivation levels were used. The analysis of the obtained data was made in the statistical program (SPSS 25). According to the results obtained, it was determined that male participants had higher perception levels of university sports environment and academic motivation levels compared to female participants. In the analysis of the data according to the age variable, it was determined that the participants in the age group of 24 and over had higher perception levels of the university sports environment than the participants in the 20-21 age group. When the data were analyzed according to the faculties of the participants, it was found that the participants in the faculty of sports sciences had higher perception levels of the university sports environment compared to the participants in the vocational school. When the correlation between Academic Motivation and University Sports Environment Perception is examined, it is seen that there is a positive and significant relationship between University Sports Environment Perception and Academic Motivation, and all of the University Sports Environment sub-dimensions are the predictors of organizational happiness.
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- 2023
8. 2023 Fact Book: Arkansas Public Higher Education
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Arkansas Division of Higher Education (ADHE)
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This publication provides governmental and higher education decision-makers a statewide perspective of Arkansas public higher education finance for the 2021-23 biennium, as well as trends for the past several years. It also contains a detailed financial profile of each institution and presents a basis for comparative assessments of revenue sources and expenditure patterns. The Fact Book contains seven sections: (1) the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board recommendations for appropriations for the 2023-25 biennium; (2) 2023-25 legislative appropriations; (3) funding history of Arkansas higher education; (4) history of current fund revenues and expenditures; (5) history of unrestricted educational and general and auxiliary revenues and expenditures; (6) history of athletic revenues and expenditures; and (7) miscellaneous supplemental information. The Financial Profiles section of the 2023 Fact Book relies on Series 17 information submitted by institutions of higher education for revenue and expenditure breakouts. Also, in an effort to assist the reader in analyzing specific trends, Section 5 focuses on individual institutions with profile sections that contain five years of data. [For the 2021 Fact Book, see ED616686.]
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- 2023
9. Team Cohesion in Records/Martial Arts Sport Athletes: Transformational Leadership and the Role of Narcissism
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Youngtaek Oh
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This study aimed to determine the relationship between narcissism and team cohesion of transformational leadership and individual sports athletes interactions. In particular, individual sports can present a model to verify the level of perception of team cohesion according to the type of record sports and martial arts sports. Transformational leadership, narcissism, and team cohesion were measured among 225 college athletes. SPSS 24.0, Amos 24.0, PROCESS Macro programs (Model No. 5) were used for data analysis. The analysis includes frequency analysis, Cronbach's alpha values, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), Pearson's correlation, and moderating effect. Transformational leadership significantly positively affected team cohesion and narcissism. Non-narcissism also significantly positively affected team cohesion. The interaction between transformational leadership and individual athletes was significantly higher for martial arts sports. Team cohesion was also important for athletes in individual sports, thus expanding the boundaries of transformational leadership theory. To cultivate a sports team (organization), strategic sports management will be necessary to enhance team cohesion.
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- 2024
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10. Transgender Athletes in College Sports: A Human Resources and Legal Perspective from 2020 Forward
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Jon Armstrong and Mark Fincher
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From the chaos of 2020 arose many social conversations, among which were the legal rights of gay and transgender Americans. Landmark cases established precedents for potential legislation and reform regarding the transgender community. One particular issue is that of transgender athletes in college sports. While many are in staunch opposition to a future where people who are born male may play on women's sports teams in college, legal battles indicate the possibility that gender may cease to be a deciding factor in participation on national and collegiate sports teams. The appropriate management of transgender athletes related issues has consequently become an important issue in human resources for colleges and universities. While college athletes are not currently seen as employees, the people who work with them are. The purpose of this paper is to examine, from a human resource management and legal perspective, the issue of transgender athletes playing college sports in both the court of law and the court of public opinion.
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- 2024
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11. Analyzing International Students' Social Support through Intercollegiate Sport Team Identification
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Kim, Kibaek, Stokowski, Sarah, Lo, Wen Juo, and Han, Jinwook
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International students often experience difficulties acclimating to campus climates in the United States. While identifying oneself as a fan of college sports has been shown to assist domestic students in their social adjustment to college environments, little is known about the relationship between international students' college sports team identification and their social adjustment. As such, the purpose of this study is to determine the effect of team identification on international students' sense of community and social capital and the conceptual relationship between the sense of community and social capital. Analysis of the hypothesized model with a sample of international students (n = 487) revealed that international students' team identification develops their sense of community and social capital. Implications focused on how the international student office and athletic departments can utilize intercollegiate sports to support international students and assist this population in adapting to campus life in the United States.
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- 2023
12. How Should College Physical Education (CPE) Conduct Collaborative Governance? A Survey Based on Chinese Colleges
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Jianyi, Ding and Phucharoen, Thongchat
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Background and Aim: College physical education (CPE) is a Key Stage in the transition from school physical education to national sports. Collaborative governance is an effective new type of social participation, but there is not much research on CPE collaborative governance. The purpose of this study is to describe the interrelationship of multiple subjects in the College Physical Education (CPE) collaborative governance and explore the specific influencing factors that affect the effect of CPE collaborative governance. Materials and Methods: This study uses the Delphi method. A total of 18 experts conducted two rounds of expert consultation questionnaires with the Delphi method and completed the CPE Collaborative Governance Scale. The scale includes four dimensions: Government-led multi-sectoral coordination, CPE internal governance, and external synergy, System design of CPE collaborative governance, and Mechanism construction of CPE collaborative governance. Three criteria for the inclusion of experts have been established, including educational background, professional title, and management experience, ensuring the authority of experts. Results: The theoretical model of CPE collaborative governance constructed shows the interrelationships among multiple subjects of CPE. The four dimensions of collaborative governance in college physical education are government-led multi-sector collaboration, internal governance and external collaboration of CPE, the institutional design of CPE collaborative governance, and the mechanism construction of CPE collaborative governance. The results show that after the expert consultation and verification of the Delphi method, the 4 Indicator Dimensions and 28 Specific Items in the revised CPE collaborative governance Indicator System have significance and reference value for CPE collaborative governance. Conclusion: The relationship between multiple subjects of CPE collaborative governance revealed in this study, as well as the quantified and validated indicators of collaborative governance effectiveness, have certain reference values for CPE to carry out collaborative governance work. CPE managers can use the results of this study to carry out CPE collaborative governance work based on the current situation.
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- 2023
13. The Effect of Motivation to Participate in Sports on Happiness Level in University Students
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Öktem, Tuncay and Çingöz, Yunus Emre
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In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of individuals' motivation to participate in sports on their happiness level. This study is a descriptive survey study on the impact of Bayburt University students' attitudes about sports on their levels of happiness. This study is a descriptive survey study on the impact of Bayburt University sports sciences faculty students' participation motivation to sports on their levels of happiness. The population of this study, which examined the effect of motivation to participate in sports on happiness level, consisted of students studying at Bayburt University. The sample consisted of a total of 357 people, 129 of whom were female and 228 of whom were male, studying in different departments of the sports sciences faculty of the same university. "Personal Information Form", " Participation Motivation Questionnaire " and "Oxford Happiness Questionnaire-Short Form" were used as data collection tools. SPSS 25 package program was used for statistical analysis. Normality test, spearman correlation and simple linear regression analysis were used in the analysis of the data. When the effect of the participants' motivation to participate in sports on their happiness levels is investigated, it is seen that motivation to participate in sports has a significant effect on the happiness levels of university students. In conclusion, considering the findings obtained from the research, it is seen that there was a relationship between motivation to participate in sports and happiness in the study, and that motivation to participate in sports had an effect on the happiness levels of individuals.
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- 2023
14. Collegiate Athletes' Motivational Styles and Athlete Satisfaction in Team Sports
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Washington, Dalonie
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The purpose of this quantitative correlational study was to examine if and to what extent there is a correlation between athletes' motivational styles (intrinsic, external, identified, introjected, integrated, and amotivated) and the individual performance construct of athletes' satisfaction within a two-year university system in the Western United States. The theoretical framework for assessing the correlation between athletes' motivational styles and satisfaction is self-determination theory (SDT). Six research questions addressed correlations between athletes' motivational styles of intrinsic, external, identified, introjected, integrated, and amotivated, and the individual performance construct of athletes' satisfaction. The sample included 28 university student-athletes who play team sports within a two-year university system in the Western United States. The dataset included Sport Motivation Scale (SMS-II) and Athlete Satisfaction Questionnaire (ASQ) instruments, which collected data within a single online system: Survey Hero. Due to COVID-19, the research study site was shut prematurely. Therefore, a low number of responses was collected from participants. A Kendall's tau-b correlational analysis showed significant evidence to accept the null hypothesis and conclude there was no association between intrinsic tb = 0.262, external tb = -0.012, identified tb = 0.114, introjected tb = 0.23, integrated tb = 0.068, and amotivated tb = 0.075 motivation and athletes' satisfaction (M = 14.89; SD = 4.59). A post hoc analysis was then performed on each research question and concluded that there is at least a 90.7% chance of committing a type II error. The results may not fit the general population across other states.
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- 2023
15. The Changing Athletic Development Pathway: Is It the End of an Era for Multisport Athletes?
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Lynn Pantuosco-Hensch
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Across sports, there has been a dramatic shift toward earlier and more frequent specialization, leading to a decrease in multi-sport athletes at the high school level. A student-athlete may be able to participate in three high school sports, however it likely precludes them from devoting enough time to a primary, future college sport. The multi-sport logistics are increasingly difficult, and for many student-athletes there is pressure to choose a primary sport and invest fully in that pursuit. This article discusses athletic development models that attempt to provide more direction and guidance to the athletic development process.
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- 2024
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16. Defining Success: Student-Athlete Perspectives
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Christopher M. Kincaid
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With numbers over half a million, student-athletes are a significant, yet unique, population on college campuses. They encounter unique experiences and face unique challenges, not the least of which is navigating the competing roles of student and athlete. Navigating these roles within the high-stakes and competitive world of collegiate athletics is the context in which student-athletes must develop a definition of success. Based on the theoretical framework of Chickering and Reisser's (1993) vectors of establishing identity and developing purpose, the purpose of this qualitative, descriptive study was to determine how student-athletes define success from their personal perspective and move toward a more nuanced understanding of how the development of their student-athlete identity and perspective on career transition informed their definition of success. Seventeen former student-athletes were interviewed utilizing a semi-structured format with open-ended questions. Themes related to the student-athletes' definitions of success, how the definitions changed over time, and how their definitions of success impacted their career transition were identified from the responses. The results of the study suggest student-athletes participate in an iterative process of developing and refining their definition of success as they progress through various experiences and developmental stages. The process is largely reactive and highlighted by an overwhelming lack of intentional decision-making. Recommendations are made for how institutions can more fully support student-athletes through a proactive process of defining success. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
17. International Student-Athletes' Agency, Authorship, and Voice at U.S. Higher Education Institutions
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Malia Nicole Schimminger
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The purpose of this qualitative, case study research project is to explore international student-athletes' experiences at U.S. higher education institutions, probing how well nonimmigrant visa holders are prepared for postgraduate success through their college experiences. Six collaborators engaged in photo elicitation interviews to provide insight into how they have navigated their international student identity and student-athlete identity. Collaborators each shared 10-15 media files representative of their experiences, and then they engaged in 90-minute interviews to talk about what their selections meant to them and why they were significant. The frameworks of agency, self-authorship, and voice were used to gauge how the international student-athlete experience fostered collaborators' journeys from external influence to internal meaning-making and equipped them to become leaders in their global societies. This project offers considerations and strategies for college athletics staff and international services staff to better support the international student-athletes on their campuses. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
18. Examining the Individual Crisis-Related Experiences of Intercollegiate Athletics Administrators of NCAA Division I Institutions
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Marcus Ray Sedberry
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This qualitative phenomenological study explored the individual crisis-related experiences of administrative leaders in intercollegiate athletics. A crisis is defined as an unpredictable and unexpected event that interferes with normal operations of the organization, threatens the well-being of stakeholders, and can significantly negatively impact an organization's resources and reputation. This study considered crises experienced within the educational context. The author explored the needs of administrators during the three phases of individual-related crises--precrisis, crisis, and postcrisis. Individual crises are crisis situations specifically attributed to the actions of a specific individual. Individual crises include a controversial statement or action, personal lifestyle transgression, and internal criminal transgression. In addition, personal health-related incidents and individual tragic incidents, including ongoing crisis incidents experienced on a college campus were included. Finally, the perception of crisis preparedness for administrative leaders was examined. Participants in this study included 10 administrative leaders at NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision institutions. The study participants comprised individuals with at least three years of professional experience in intercollegiate athletics and professional expertise during an individual crisis. The author sought to not only understand the crisis situations experienced by participants but also aimed to better understand the climates of the participants and situations in hopes of elucidating the particular. Data was collected via semi-structured, non-anonymous one-on-one virtual interviews facilitated via Zoom software. In Vivo coding was used for analysis of the data. The study identified common themes central to the phenomenon of crisis management and crisis leadership in college athletics. Common themes were represented among crisis experiences, needs of administrators in all phases of crisis, and the perceptions of crisis preparedness. The experiences of administrators were significantly impacted by information sharing, the connection with internal and external stakeholders, as well as the connection to the organizational mission, vision, and values. The administrator needs included transparency, guidance, a reliable sounding board, and support during crisis situations. Participants also identified the need for follow-up and support postcrisis. Generally, participants perceived their administrative leaders to be prepared for crisis based on previous experiences yet acknowledged the lack of formal training for administrative leaders in college athletics. As such, they identified personal trial-by-fire experiences, learning from others, and avoidance as elements that influence their preparedness and strategy for crisis leadership. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
19. Exploring the Implementation and Impact of Organizational Ambidexterity in College Athletics
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Kyle Krueger
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For several decades business management research has addressed Organizational Ambidexterity (OA), an organization's ability to maximize their capabilities in areas of strength while also examining new techniques and areas of growth, in a variety of industries. Areas of focus in this area of research include the contributing factors to OA, how different characteristics of an organization such as age, size, and leader tenure impact OA, and the overall impact that OA can have on the success of an organization. Generally, organizations that older and larger that engage in OA tend to experience greater success, while organizations that are smaller and younger tend to benefit from focusing more in one area and less on ambidextrousness. By adapting existing survey questions, this exploratory study seeks to determine the extent to which college athletic departments engage in OA. Subsequently, by examining APR scores and winning percentages this is the first study to address of the impact that OA has on success within college athletics. While there are indications that the athletic departments at NCAA member institutions do engage in OA, this study did not find correlations between engagement in OA and athletic department success. There is some groundwork to explore if OA in college athletics leads to forms of success not examined in this study or if subsets within athletic departments benefit more from engaging in organizational ambidexterity. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
20. Playing in Fear: The Role of Religious Coping in Insecure Strivings and The DE-ED Continuum in College Athletes
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Julia DeVere Avila
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The present study is building off preliminary results in a previous study on college athletes in which positive religious coping moderated the relationship between disordered eating symptoms and competitive attitudes in NCAA Division II athletes (DeVere, 2021). However, further research is needed to gain a greater understanding of the factors impacting college athlete mental health outcomes. College athletes are at increased risk for both disordered eating and eating disorders given the unique stressors they face. Within this population, it is important to conceptualize eating disorders on a continuum, which allows for greater understanding and inclusion of the holistic experience of NCAA athletes. One athlete stressor is the mindset towards competitiveness and their motivation for striving for success, conceptualized as insecure strivings. The current study tested potential moderators of the relationship between competitiveness and DE-ED, namely the effect of religious coping. NCAA athletes at multiple institutions completed an online survey on disordered eating attitudes and behaviors, insecure strivings, and religious coping. Data was cleaned and analyzed in SPSS. Correlations and Model 1 of the PROCESS macro for SPSS v.4.2 written by Andrew Hayes (2017) for moderation analyses were run. Results suggested that disordered eating behaviors, disordered eating attitudes, and negative religious coping (religious struggle) were all associated with insecure striving in the hypothesized directions. No significant moderators were found for hypothesized relationships. The results of this study should be utilized to better understand the nuances of disordered eating attitudes and behaviors in college athletes and the cognitive, interpersonal, and spiritual factors that impact their mental health outcomes. Future research should evaluate college athletic department's psychological support for their athletes and how programs can be improved to engender increased positive outcomes for college athletes. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
- Published
- 2024
21. Exploring the Attitudes and Perceptions of Head Coaches toward Transgender Athletes in Women's College Sports before and after Intervention: A Phenomenological Study
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Sara Nicole Steinman
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This study investigates the attitudes and perceptions of head coaches towards the inclusion of transgender athletes in women's college sports, considering the impact of education and interaction. Despite increased visibility and advances in transgender rights, transgender athletes continue to face significant barriers in sports, rooted in societal biases and misconceptions. This research specifically examines the attitudes and perceptions of head coaches and the effects of interventions aimed at enhancing their understanding and acceptance of transgender athletes. Interviews were conducted with head coaches of NCAA Division III women's sports, before and after they participated in either an educational training or a panel discussion hosted by transgender athletes. Findings indicate that interventions, particularly those involving interaction with transgender athletes, can influence coaches' perceptions by increasing empathy and understanding, though shifts in attitudes were less pronounced. Key themes emerged around the complexities of fairness, the binary nature of sports, and the physical scrutiny of transgender athletes. The study highlights a persistent focus on physiological differences and competitive fairness, often overshadowing broader inclusion issues. Coaches expressed a need for clearer policies and better understanding of the physiological impacts of transgender athletes, reflecting deep-seated struggle to reconcile inclusion with fairness. This research contributes to the broader discourse on gender diversity in sports by highlighting the critical role of leadership in challenging prevailing stereotypes and advocating for equitable opportunities for all athletes. The implications of this study are vital for coaches and sport administrators aiming to promote inclusivity and fairness in sports. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
- Published
- 2024
22. Design of Basketball Teaching and Training System Based on 5G Technology Support in a Wireless Network
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GuoRong Huang, Xing Liu, and Hui Sun
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This research evaluates the efficacy of a basketball-based teaching and training system supported by 5G technology in a wireless network environment. Initially are information about the Chinese basketball students is first gathered and then divided into a Control Group (CG) and an Experimental Group (EG). The control group uses the standard method of collegiate basketball instruction, while the experimental group learns the game under the background of 5G technology. For transmitting the basketball teaching data in the 5G network, we proposed a novel routing protocol named Probability-based Coupling Zone Routing Protocol (PbCZRP). An optimization technique called the Shark optimization approach is used to enhance the performance of the routing protocol. Finally, a comparison of the two groups reveals that the experimental group's basketball players fared better than the control group. The basketball training plan powered by 5G will supply students with adaptive learning services that take into account their individual needs and strengths.
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- 2024
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23. Understanding NCAA Division I Latinx College Athletes' Perspectives on Activism
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Guillermo Ortega and Berenice Sánchez
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Despite the growth of attention on racial engagement in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), limited studies have examined Latinx college athletes' participation in activism. Guided by the student leader activist identity continuum framework, this qualitative study interviewed seven NCAA Division I Latinx college athletes to explore factors that encouraged or discouraged them from participating in activism. The findings revealed that athletic departments and families influenced students' decisions to engage in activism, as well as concerns about image. Participants also pointed to a lack of conversation on Latinx issues in the NCAA and college campuses. The article concludes with recommendations for academic and athletic stakeholders.
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- 2024
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24. Early Mental Health Interventions in a College Athletics Department: The Implications of the Development of an Embedded Mental Health Unit
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Lenecia D. Nickell
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In the last decade, the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) has significantly focused on student-athlete mental health, beginning with the NCAA Annual Convention in 2013 culminating in the creation of the Mental Health Best Practices document. This document and the 2023 NCAA Transformation Committee document provide suggestions for collegiate athletics departments to consider when providing mental health services to student-athletes. The purpose of this pilot study was to develop a program that provides specific structural suggestions for creating a fully embedded mental health unit within a collegiate athletics department using the guidance documents from the NCAA. This unique program engaged in the intentional training of non-mental health professionals in mental health intervention skills specifically focused on education in recognizing the signs and symptoms of individuals experiencing a mental health challenge. Additionally, the program included the development of a detailed handbook designed to provide a structured pathway for new athletic departments in creating an embedded mental health unit. Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), an evidence-based program found to increase mental health literacy and encourage health-promoting environments, was selected to demonstrate an actionable service option. Research questions for this study aimed to determine if training in MHFA increases participants' confidence to support individuals experiencing a mental health challenge, increases participant knowledge regarding common types of mental health challenges, and reduces the stigma attached to mental health for participants. This research aimed to educate individuals representing various employment positions in collegiate athletics: administration, sports medicine, staff, and coaches. Participants were trained in MHFA and Starting BLOCKS, an interpersonal processes training created by the researcher. The Mental Health Beliefs and Literacy Scale (MBLS) pre-survey was given prior to training in both interventions and the MBLS post-survey was disturbed three weeks after participants completed MHFA training. Data was collected and analyzed using quantitative methods, inferential statistics, and categorizing participants into two groups. The results indicated an increase in confidence for all participants when engaging individuals who may be experiencing a mental health challenge. Group one comprised sports medicine staff and showed a significant increase in confidence. Group two, consisting of other athletics department staff, indicated increased confidence, but not to a statistically significant amount. Developing a comprehensive handbook that specifies areas of focus for creating an embedded mental health unit is thoroughly outlined. This provides a structured pathway for new departments and proposes an assessment tool involving various stakeholders' input as student-athlete units and needs evolve. Implications for counselor education and athletics departments are addressed. These considerations include preparation for licensed mental health professionals, training options for non-licensed staff, and structure options for mental health units in collegiate athletic departments. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
- Published
- 2024
25. From Start to Splash: Exploring Retirement Preparation and Career Development for Retired College Swimmers
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Ariel C. Hodges
- Abstract
This study examined the concepts of career preparation and the lives post-sport of retired former collegiate swimmers. Swimming is a sport that has next to no opportunities to compete professionally, meaning that all swimmers must undergo career preparation and transition into full-time careers once their eligibility has expired. This study was guided by Schlossberg's 4S system, which looks at the Situation, Self, Support and Strategies employed throughout the transition process (Anderson et al., 2022). This study was also guided by the life-span life-space career preparation theory of Super, Savickas and Super (Brown & Brooks, 1996). This theory looks at career preparation through a rainbow lens and allows the reader to understand that different roles, phases, and importance may be placed on their careers at different points throughout their lives. Four main themes arose which answered the two research questions. The first theme identified was the unique journeys each swammer had when it came to their career preparation. No two individuals had the same preparation, but many utilized resources such as the career center, free tutoring, internships, part-time jobs and more. The second theme that arose was the concept of support. Support was prevalent throughout several of the participants' journeys. In this study, support came from family, friends, peers, coaches, and institutionally. The third theme addressed the swammers and how they gained meaningful employment. Their new roles allowed the swammers to be active in their communities and give back to those around them. Many of the swimmers chose service-oriented jobs, such as nurses, doctors, police officers, military officers, educators, and swim coaches. The final theme identified the strong swimming identities of many of the swammers and how the sport continues to be a key part of their lives until today. Implications for practice included the need for more coach support during the transition from competitive swimming, receiving more support and awareness from both the NCAA and the colleges they attended, and the idea to introduce swimmers to more jobs that would allow them to stay in the sport through a different avenue. Implications for future research address the need for more qualitative and quantitative studies done on both the sport of swimming and swimmers and more research on how to better support swimmers during their transitions. This is especially important from a mental health perspective, and determining if policies or procedures would be beneficial to implement at an institutional or NCAA level when it came to career development. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
26. NCAA Coaches' Perceptions of the Inclusion of Transgender Athletes: A Qualitative Analysis
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Macey L. Arnold, Kasey Chambers, and Trent A. Petrie
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The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) established policies for the inclusion of transgender athletes to compete in collegiate sport that align with their gender identity. Despite this access, the extent to which collegiate sport environments are welcoming, inclusive and supportive of transgender athletes is unclear. Understanding coaches' perceptions and attitudes is particularly salient given the critical, and often personal, nature of coach-athlete relationships and the impact coaches have on sport environments [Kuhlin, F., Barker-Ruchti, N., & Stewart, C. (2020). Long-term impact of the coach-athlete relationship on development, health and wellbeing: stories from a figure skater. "Sports Coaching Review," 9(2), 208-230; Stirling, A. E., & Kerr, G. A. (2013). The perceived effects of elite athletes' experiences of emotional abuse in the coach-athlete relationship. "International Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology," 11(1), 87-100]. NCAA coaches' perceptions of, and attitudes towards the inclusion of transgender athletes is unknown, and thus the degree to which coaches are creating safe, or harmful, environments for transgender athletes is unknown. The present study aims investigate coaches' perceptions to be able to inform policy and education for promoting inclusive, safe environments for transgender athletes. We asked NCAA coaches (N = 1358) to describe the reasoning for their beliefs regarding the inclusion of transgender athletes in collegiate sports. Through reflexive thematic analysis, we determined coaches' reasoning for their perceptions, within the context of five higher-order themes: (a) It's not right: Transgender identities as invalid, (b) A need to protect (cis) women's sports, (c) Transgender rights are human rights, (d) Sport's role in society and coaches' role in sport and (e) I am not sure what I believe. Analyses illuminate avenues for transgender athlete inclusion training for coaches.
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- 2024
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27. Reliving the Past or Nurturing the Future? A Heuristic Narrative Study on the Experiences of Former Division I Student-Athletes Now Athletic Advisors at NCAA DI U.S. Institutions
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Samantha Jody-Ann Williams
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This qualitative study explored the experiences of former NCAA student-athletes now serving as athletic advisors at Division I institutions across the United States, aiming to understand how their athletic past influences their advisory practices, with a focus on identity development and mentorship. The following research question and sub-questions guided the study: How does the personal experience of being a former student-athlete influence current athletic advisors' advisory and mentoring practices? 1) How do athletic advisors describe their lived experience as former student-athletes? 2) How, if at all, do athletic advisors perceive that their experiences as student-athletes have prepared them for their work as athletic advisors? 3) In what ways, if any, does the mentoring role show up in the stories athletic advisors tell about their lived experience as athletic advisors? Through interviews with nine advisors from public NCAA Football Bowl Subdivisions (FBS) institutions, findings were analyzed using Moustakas' heuristic process. Three themes emerged: 1) Influences on Student-Athlete Experiences, examining familial and internal factors shaping their collegiate journey, 2) Diversified Pathways to Athletic Advising, exploring varied routes to advisory roles and the significance of relationships formed, and 3) Supporting Student-Athletes through Mentorship Identity, revealing how advisors embody mentor roles beyond their advisory duties. The study highlights several implications with suggested recommendations: The unique skill set of former student-athletes now academic advisors. The impact of athletic advisors on high-achieving student-athletes. The commercialization of the academic side of athletics and social media influence. The importance of creating environments of belonging for student-athletes. "In loco parentis" role: balancing indirect creation and added burden amidst shifting landscapes. Future research avenues include investigating experiences without contextual parameters, exploring decision-making among student-athletes from different governing bodies, examining underrepresented backgrounds, and including perspectives of advisors who were not student-athletes. These findings address the research question: How does the personal experience of being a former student-athlete influence current athletic advisors' advisory and mentoring practices? [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
28. Food Insecurity among Female Collegiate Athletes Exists Despite University Assistance
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Crystal Clark Douglas, Simone P. Camel, and Wesley Mayeux
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Objective: To determine the prevalence and characteristics of food insecurity among female collegiate athletes. Participants: NCAA Division I female athletes attending a public university located in East Texas in 2018. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional online survey was employed to gather quantitative and qualitative data regarding food security status. Participants were instructed to complete the 26-item questionnaire, including the six-item USFSSM. Results: Participants (N = 78) were 18-22 years of age, largely white (75%). Despite most (89.74%) receiving some form of scholarship and 80% reporting provision of some meals, 32.10% were classified as food insecure. Barriers to food intake were two-fold higher among the food insecure (88% vs 43%, p < 0.001); limited time (43.6%) and finances (23.1%) were the most frequently reported barriers. Conclusions: Despite university support, food insecurity exists in female collegiate athletes. Outcomes warrant screening for food insecurity, referral to support resources throughout matriculation, and tailored intervention programs.
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- 2024
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29. A Longitudinal Study on the Influence of Peer Network Status on University and College Students' Academic Records in Hurdle Class
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Ronghai Su, Meiling Wang, Deng Wang, Lin Chen, Bingxin Su, Xuanyan Su, and Maochou Hsu
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Purpose: To examine the longitudinal impact and mechanism of peer network status on university students' hurdle running academic records. Methods: Conduct a follow-up survey in the hurdle teaching, an experimental class, and analyze the data using the latent growth model. Results: (a) The intercept and slope of peer network status positively predict the slope of academic records. (b) Peer network status influences the slope of academic records through the slope of learning engagement, and the intercept of learning engagement acts as a masking effect between the two. (c) Personality traits moderated the relationship between peer network status and the academic records slope. Conclusions: (a) The impact of peer network status on academic records exhibits social effects. (b) The impact of peer network status on academic records has a double-edged sword effect. (c) Extroverted personality is most advantageous in enhancing peer network status and predicting the rate of improvement in academic records.
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- 2024
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30. Varsity Athletes' Fitness Perceptions, Fitness-Related Self-Conscious Emotions and Depression When Sidelined from Play
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Alfred Min, Ross M. Murray, Tahla den Houdyker, and Catherine M. Sabiston
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Objective Explore the association between varsity athletes' fitness perceptions and symptoms of depression while sidelined from sport for an extended period, and test whether fitness-related self-conscious emotions (i.e., shame, guilt, authentic pride, and hubristic pride) mediate this relationship. Participants Varsity athletes (N = 124) from a large university in Canada where sports had been restricted for the past year due to the pandemic. Method Participants completed a cross-sectional self-report survey. Regression analyses testing mediation (i.e., direct and indirect effects) were used to explore the main research aim. Results Controlling for age and gender, separate models demonstrated significant indirect effects of fitness perceptions on depression symptoms through shame, guilt, and authentic pride, but not through hubristic pride. Conclusion Self-conscious emotions may be used as a tool to mitigate depression symptoms when varsity athletes are sidelined from sport for an extended period. Further research is needed to understand how self-conscious emotions develop when athletes are injured or retired.
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- 2024
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31. The Effect of Institutionalized Barriers on Historically Excluded Athletic Training Students
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Chelsea Kuehner-Boyer
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The Institute of Medicine has found that barriers exist that directly contribute to the underrepresentation of racial and ethnic groups in health professional education. Yet, little research has been done to evaluate the barriers that affect athletic training students. An integrative review was conducted to identify barriers that affect students in professional healthcare programs, and 52 articles were retained to create an original survey to measure the barriers faced by athletic training students. The purpose of this study is to understand the barriers that affect athletic training students, especially athletic training students from historically excluded groups. This study hypothesizes that athletic training students experience a variety of barriers throughout their professional programs, that historically excluded students experience barriers differently, and that there is an association between the frequency that students experience barriers and their desire to leave their programs. An explanatory sequential mixed methods approach was used which included an online survey completed by 301 athletic training students and athletic trainers and a qualitative journaling study completed by eight athletic trainers. The findings of this study confirm that athletic training students experience a wide variety of barriers, that these barriers affect historically excluded athletic training students differently, and that there is a strong positive correlation between the frequency with which students experience barriers and their desire to leave their programs. Possible implications for this study include an understanding of the barriers that affect athletic training students and insight into future research that is needed to effectively address these barriers. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
32. The Experiences of Senior Level Female Administrators at NCAA Division I FBS Institutions
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Jessica Reo
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Intercollegiate athletics has become a business enterprise which exists and thrives on higher education campuses. As the growth of intercollegiate sport has continued, women have been noticeably absent from leadership roles in this extremely male-dominated profession. With the passage of Title IX there was hope and expectation that women would be considered and accepted on both the playing field and in leadership positions. While the playing field has shown significant advances with approximately 50% of student-athletes being female, leadership has severely lagged behind. Slow in the evolution of female athletic directors, it is important to explore the reasons why and determine if there are opportunities for change. Speaking with women in senior leadership roles at NCAA Division I FBS institutions provides information and ideas for supporting young women who aspire to be athletic directors and leaders in intercollegiate sports. Using this exploratory study through the narrative inquiry process, women who assisted in leading their departments at NCAA Division I FBS institutions which were classified at the time in autonomy conferences were interviewed on the professional development, opportunity, and mentorship throughout their careers. The information shared was thoughtful and insightful and provides an opportunity for young women and men to understand challenges faced and opportunities for change moving forward in assisting and guiding young women into leadership positions within these departments. The feedback from these accomplished women provides leaders at institutions of higher education, search firms, and hiring managers with details and background that may assist in overcoming unconscious subjectivity or bias. Culture in intercollegiate athletics must evolve and adapt to the quickly changing landscape of intercollegiate sport. Allowing thought leaders in the profession to remain white and male will inevitably stunt the advancement of collegiate athletics overall. Diversity in gender, as well as race, will provide different perspectives to assist in understanding challenges that are faced by those that strive to be leaders in this environment. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
33. Theory of Planned Behavior-Based Predictors of High-Intensity Drinking Behavior among Undergraduate Students during College Home Football Games
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Kyle R. Loggins
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Each year excessive alcohol use costs the United States (US) economy $250 billion and results in 95,000 deaths. Binge drinking is a form of excessive alcohol use and accounts for over 70% of these statistics. High-intensity drinking (HID), an extreme measure of binge drinking, is operationally defined as drinking twice the gender-specific binge drinking threshold; 8+ standard alcoholic drinks for women and 10+ standard alcoholic drinks for men throughout one drinking occasion. Undergraduate students have a higher prevalence of HID than other demographics which results in more negative alcohol related consequences. The purpose of this study was to determine the extent constructs from the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) were associated with HID among undergraduate students throughout their Game Day experience. An online, theory of planned behavior-based instrument predicting HID was delivered to a cross-sectional convenience sample of undergraduate students attending a southeastern university that watched home college football games at various locations throughout the 2022-2023 football season. The instrument was operationalized by modifying previous items validated from two surveys that measured drinking in college students. A total of 444 individuals met the HID eligibility requirements. A majority were females (56.3%), white (92.6%), and had a mean age of 20.20 years old. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients revealed TPB relationships with behavioral intention for females (ATT: [rho] = 0.646; SN: [rho] = 0.300; PBC: [rho] = 0.516) and males (ATT: [rho] = 0.606; SN: [rho] = 0.324; PBC: [rho] = 0.205). Gender based multiple regression analyses revealed the female model (R[superscript 2] = 0.48) explained more variance than males (R[superscript 2] = 0.39). The three predictors regressed on BI resulted in ATT ([beta] = 0.53, t = 9.70, p < 0.007) and PBC ([beta] = 0.27, t = 5.19, p < 0.001) being significant for females and ATT ([beta] = 0.60, t = 5.02, p < 0.001) for males. A common theme of excessive alcohol consumption utilizing TPB explaining 44% of the variance on intention was explored. Future researchers need to analyze the gender differences of undergraduate college students HID at celebratory events. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
34. Down, Set, Spread: The Association between College Football and COVID-19
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Wanda E. Leal, Alex R. Piquero, Windy Dees, and Nicole Leeper Piquero
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Objectives: Before the Fall 2020 semester, college presidents and the NCAA made decisions about playing college football. The current study aims to examine the association between college football games and COVID-19 infections at universities. Participants: More than 1,800 college campuses nationwide from "The New York Times" database on COVID-19 cases on college campuses. Methods: Random effects negative binomial regression is used to analyze the association between college football games, membership to college football organizations, and COVID-19 cases at the universities studied. Results: The number of football games played was significantly associated with higher COVID-19 cases at the universities studied. Membership to certain college football organizations was also significantly associated with higher COVID-19 cases, particularly FBS and Power Five conferences. Conclusions: These findings provide a baseline for subsequent analyses across other sports and advocates for continued assessment of protocols that ensure the safety and well-being of student-athletes, fans, and university communities.
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- 2024
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35. Barriers to Concussion Reporting in Collegiate Athletes: An Analysis of a Peer-Led Worksheet Activity
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William Ernst and Meredith Kneavel
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Objective: To determine if a peer-led concussion reporting worksheet activity could elucidate barriers to reporting in collegiate athletes. Participants: Five hundred and three athletes from 7 universities across all three NCAA divisions. Methods: A supplementary qualitative analysis of responses to a concussion reporting worksheet completed during an RCT of a novel peer concussion education program. The first column of the worksheet required participants to list thoughts that prevent reporting and the second column required replacement thoughts that facilitate reporting. Results: A qualitative phenomenological thematic analysis of responses to the first column of the worksheets identified themes that coalesced into three areas: (1) missing out on athletic and social events, (2) losing one's competitive edge, and (3) negative interpersonal interaction/self-perception. Conclusions: Barriers to concussion reporting from several areas central to the collegiate athlete experience were identified. These barriers should be considered during clinical assessment and when developing concussion education programs.
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- 2024
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36. Diet Quality of NCAA Division I Athletes Assessed by the Healthy Eating Index
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Emily N. Werner, Chelsea A. Robinson, Jean M. Kerver, and James M. Pivarnik
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Optimizing diet quality is an important concept for college athletes. Purpose: To evaluate dietary quality of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletes. Methods: Total 94 college athletes (n= 21 male, 73 female) from 19 different varsity teams at a single university completed a 24-hour dietary recall using the Automated Self-Administered 24-hour (ASA24) Dietary Assessment Tool. Diet quality was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) with higher scores indicating better diet quality (range 0-100). Results: The average HEI score for the total sample was 59.2 ± 16.6 and only nine athletes achieved an HEI score = 80. There were no significant differences in HEI scores between sexes, class, majors, sport played, or those who did or did not report taking previous nutrition coursework. Conclusions: The dietary quality was poor based on US dietary guidelines for the general population, which could have negative effects on health and performance.
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- 2024
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37. Language Learning Strategies in Focus: Exploring Their Utilization by College Student-Athletes
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Shu-Hsiu Huang and Kuei-Lan Tsai
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This study explores the specific language learning strategies (LLS) employed by student-athletes in Higher Education institutions in Taiwan. Given these student-athletes' challenges in balancing academic and athletic commitments, understanding their adoption of LLS provides valuable pedagogical insights. This quantitative research gathered 150 responses, considering variables such as academic year, gender, duration of English study, and athletic specialization. Our findings indicate a moderate overall LLS usage, with a pronounced preference for metacognitive strategies. Strategies such as watching English shows and actively engaging in conversations were particularly favored. Conversely, kinesthetic and mnemonic approaches were less popular, such as acting out words or using rhymes. Delving deeper into the data, there were limited gender-based differences in LLS adoption. However, athletic specialization significantly influenced LLS preferences. Especially, martial arts or combat sports athletes had the highest LLS mean scores across all categories. These results highlight the distinct LLS preferences among Taiwanese student-athletes and suggest potential pedagogical adaptations to enhance their language learning experiences.
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- 2024
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38. Concussion History and the Impact on Softball Batting and Reaction Time in Collegiate Softball Players: A Pilot Study
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Kim J. Uyeno, Gail Frost, Nicole J. Chimera, Michael W. R. Holmes, and Jae Patterson
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The negative effects of concussion on cognitive and physical performance can linger beyond return to sport and may result in reduced sport performance. The effect of concussion history, including time since concussion and number of concussions, on sport performance is not well understood. The purposes of this study were to examine the effects of concussion history on softball batting measures, such as pitch recognition, swing timing, and swing decision making, and to compare a computerized reaction time (RT) test to a sport-specific RT test. A cross-sectional study design was used to evaluate softball batting and RT measures among collegiate softball players. Eighteen female collegiate softball players were recruited to participate. Participants were divided into two groups: those with previous concussion (n = 7; mean age, 20.7 years; mean number of concussions, 1.3; mean time since last concussion, 3.9 years) and those without (n = 11; mean age, 20.4 years). Pitch recognition, swing timing, and swing decision making were based on participants' responses to pre-recorded pitching videos. Computerized RT included simple, choice, and go/no-go tests. Pitch recognition, swing timing, and swing decision making were similar between groups. There was not a significant correlation between computerized RT and swing RT. The preliminary findings suggest that collegiate softball players with concussion history can perform similarly on sport-specific tasks to those without concussion history, and sport-specific RT tests may provide unique information beyond computerized tests about an athlete's ability to perform in their sport.
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- 2024
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39. Sockwear Influences Performance and Plantar Kinetics during Agility and Soccer Drills
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Ashley N. Buck and Sarah P. Shultz
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Textured grip socks are worn by soccer players worldwide to decrease foot movement within the shoe and improve athletic performance. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of textured grip socks on performance and in-shoe plantar kinetics during soccer-specific tasks. Eleven collegiate soccer players (4 male, 7 female) participated in this study. Performance and in-shoe kinetic data were collected under 2 sock conditions (normal soccer socks and grip socks) during 3 change-of-direction drills (45-degree, 90-degree, 180-degree changes-of-direction) and 3 soccer-specific drills (dribbling, ball striking, juggling). Kinetic data were recorded across 3 plantar regions (hindfoot, medial forefoot, lateral forefoot) via insoles worn in the shoe and utilized to calculate impulse and peak force. Performance was assessed via time-to-completion (change-of-direction and dribbling drills) or number of successful repetitions (juggling and ball striking drills). Compared to normal soccer socks, grip socks improved performance during dribbling (P = 0.02), dominant limb juggling (P = 0.03), and ball striking at 3 distances (P = 0.04, <0.01, <0.001). Grip socks decreased 180-degree change-of-direction performance (P = 0.03). Hindfoot impulse was smaller during the 45- (P = 0.02) and 90-degree (P = 0.02) change-of-direction drills in grip socks. Hindfoot peak force was smaller during the 90-degree change-of-direction (P = 0.05); medial forefoot (P = 0.02) and total foot (P = 0.02) peak force were greater during the 45-degree change-of-direction drill in grip socks. Despite improvements in soccer-specific performance with grip socks, the lack of consistent significant differences among plantar kinetics indicate that performance outcomes may be driven by at least one other mechanism (e.g., placebo, somatosensory feedback).
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- 2024
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40. Power 5 Conference Institutions' Summer Transition Program Physical Activity Promotion Efforts: A Review
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Oliver W. A. Wilson, Dean Gouda, Bradley J. Cardinal, Kelsey E. Holland, Lucas D. Elliott, Michele Duffey, and Melissa Bopp
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Objective: To review the physical activity promotion efforts of Power 5 conference institutions' summer transition programs. Methods: The websites of Power 5 Conference and affiliate member institutions (N = 78) were systematically reviewed and information on summer transition programs pertaining to health were extracted. Results: Most (n = 45, 57.7%) institutions had a summer transition program of some kind. Among those who had summer transition programs, 14 (31.1%) had a nonphysical activity health course (i.e. health and/or nutrition), while courses that incorporated a physical activity component were uncommon (n = 6, 13.3%). Only two institutions covered physical activity, nutrition, and health in at least one offered course. Conclusions: There is an opportunity for tertiary institution-level summer transitional programs to expand coverage to address a currently unmet need for physical activity promotion while avoiding perpetuation of existing inequities.
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- 2024
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41. Preferred Character Traits, Strategies, and Behaviors of a Softball Coach: A Model to Foster Individual and Team Performance, Team Cohesion, and Emotional Well-Being
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Michael R. Soto
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In this grounded theory research study, current/former collegiate softball players were surveyed using the Leadership Scale for Sports (LSS), followed by 13 open-ended questions, designed to solicit participants' preferences in character traits, behaviors, and strategies of a softball coach as they apply to individual and team performance, team cohesion, and emotional well-being. The primary research question was: What coaching leadership characteristics (BE), strategies (KNOW), and behaviors (DO) have the most favorable effect on positive outcomes of student athletes who play softball? Leader member exchange theory and the Army leadership requirements model were foundational theories in this research study. Survey results provided valuable data, which was sorted and chunked, and themes were established. Findings indicate participants in this study preferred a softball coach who is knowledgeable, professional, organized, and composed; who shows genuine care and concern for athletes; and who develops athletic skills, creates a competitive culture and esprit de corps, and has effective communication skills. These character traits, behaviors, and strategies are what a softball coach must Be, Know, and Do. Athletic managers at all levels of softball can use this information to hire and train the right coaches to increase the potential for individual and team performance, team cohesion, and emotional well-being among softball players of all ages. This research study was found to be both reliable and valid based on the use of the LSS, a well-established study in the sports research field, and results were comparable to a similar study from 2014 using the same LSS. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
42. A Qualitative Case Study: NCAA Division III First-Generation Student-Athletes and Transferable Skills
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Eric Brennan
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The development of transferable skills is seen as an important factor for higher education institutions to enhance the employability of their graduates (Holmes, 2013; Tymon, 2013). An overarching purpose of the higher education system is to prepare students for their professional careers and lives. This qualitative instrumental single case study explored how first-generation student-athletes develop transferable skills through intercollegiate athletics at a public, Division III university in New Jersey. Further, it sought to understand how the university validates these transferable skills for first-generation student-athletes. Data was collected using semi-structured in-depth open-ended interviews to capture rich details from the participants related to the phenomenon. This study assists in filling the void in research regarding the transferable skills first-generation student-athletes develop through intercollegiate athletics and how the university validates these experiences for them that may contribute to a more career ready first-generation student-athlete. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
43. Sexual Violence Prevention Programming for Collegiate Student-Athletes: Examining Facilitator Impact and Attitude Shifts
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Tracie L. Vogel
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Sexual violence on college campuses is a significant concern, with research indicating that approximately one-third of female students and one-tenth of male students may experience it during their college years. The risk is higher for college women nationwide, and the impact on physical and mental health is substantial. Studies often highlight high-risk groups, such as collegiate athletes, whose culture may contribute to risk factors like hypermasculinity and supportive rape myth attitudes. Research shows that male athletes exhibit higher rates of sexually violent behaviors compared to non-athletes, emphasizing the need for targeted prevention training for this specific population. The concern over sexual violence on campuses is not just a national problem, it is a problem on this NCAA Division II southern institution. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of bystander intervention training when given by a peer versus given by a staff member to be able to provide the most effective training possible to student-athletes. This quantitative study assessed the effectiveness of bystander intervention training delivered by peers versus staff members. The student-athlete participants completed surveys before and after the training to assess changes in intentions related to bystander intervention and the relatability of facilitators. Three key takeaways include participants in both the staff- and peer-led groups started with similar baseline knowledge, a notable positive shift occurred during the training, and there was no statistically significant difference in perceptions of the facilitator between groups. The study emphasized the need for ongoing evaluation and regular training redesign to sustain its impact. The results offer insights for this NCAA Division II southern institution, which will guide future training approaches. Future research should focus on a variety of facilitators to determine if the results are replicated. This document concludes with stakeholder insights, plans for disseminating the research results, and the study's limitations. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
44. More than an Athlete: An Examination of How Black Male Student-Athletes Negotiate Their Identity during Sports Retirement
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Mendel J. Murray
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Through this dissertation, I seek to examine the sports retirement of Division II Black male student-athletes and how they negotiate their identity as they transition into sports retirement. Consistent with similar research on Black male student-athletes, this dissertation makes the argument that the racialization of many college campuses contributes to Black male student-athlete's identity development and identity negotiation during sports retirement. Specifically, the racialization that results from institutions' view of Black males less as students and more as athletic commodities. In this dissertation, I seek to answer the following research questions: 1) How do Black male student-athletes at the Division II level navigate the process of transition from their active engagement in athletics programs to sports retirement? 2) How do Black retired male student-athletes at the Division II level negotiate their identity as athletes and their new identity as non-athletes? 3) How does the process of transition affect the mental health of retired Black male Division II student athletes? 4) What type of supportive structures (relationships, program, and resources) do Black male Division II student athletes rely on or find relevant to navigate this transition process? In order to answer the research questions, I utilize a qualitative narrative approach using semi-structured interviews as a way to first understand the collegiate experiences of Black male student-athletes to understand their identity development journey. Understanding their identity development journey helps in understanding how they negotiate their identity during sports retirement. The implications of this study provide insight to athletic leaders through a better-informed understanding of the experience's Black male student-athletes have during college and how these experiences play a significant role in their identity development and identity negotiation during sports retirement. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2024
45. Do Higher Levels of Athletic Competition Benefit Small and Medium-Sized Colleges? Investigating the Causal Effect of Reclassification from NCAA Division 2 to Division 1 on Applications, Basketball Revenues, and Athletic Department Expenses
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Travis K. Taylor, Rik Chakraborti, and Niall Mahaney
- Abstract
This paper analyzes the impact of college athletic reclassification for educational institutions in the United States. Most of America's colleges and universities offer athletic opportunities for their students under NCAA governance. The level of competition and associated resource requirements range from relatively low (Division 3) to high (Division 1). In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of institutions that have either reclassified to a higher division, or publicly considered such a move. The resource obligations of reclassification are significant, and administrators must carefully weigh expected benefits and costs with respect to the institution's mission and vision. While several studies (Bell, 2017; Schwarzber, 2014; Frieder & Fulks, 2007; Tomasini, 2005) have focused on reclassification from Division 1-FCS to FBS--the highest level of competition--less attention has been paid to colleges in Division 2 and 3--which comprise two-thirds of NCAA membership. Our study addresses a gap in the literature by analyzing athletic reclassification among schools moving up from Division 2 to Division 1 (FCS and no-football) during the period of 2001-2018. Drawing upon multiple data sources, we construct a panel of 33 schools (14 treatments and 19 controls) to evaluate the impact of reclassification on applications and athletic department budgets. Results from quasi-experimental methods (difference in differences, event study, and synthetic control models) suggest that reclassification significantly increased basketball program revenues and athletic department expenses among the treatment schools. However, we do not find evidence that reclassification raises student applications in the short term.
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- 2024
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46. The Reliability of the WAnT-Swim, a Novel Laboratory-Based, Swim-Specific Anaerobic Capacity Test Performed Using a Swimming Ergometer
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John D. Holohan, Jacob P. DeBlois, and Tom D. Brutsaert
- Abstract
Anaerobic capacity is an important determinant of swimming performance, and a feasible land-based test for measuring swim-specific anaerobic capacity is lacking. This study assessed the test-retest reliability of a swim-specific modification of the Wingate anaerobic capacity test: the WAnT-Swim. Ten competitive and fitness swimmers from the local college community completed four WAnT-Swim tests, two per day on two separate days, to determine peak, mean, and low power, as well as fatigue index (FI). Reliability was assessed using coefficients of variation (CV), intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and Pearson correlations. Power output exhibited low CV (<6%) with excellent reliability (ICC [greater than or equal to] 0.98) and strong associations between tests (r [greater than or equal to] 0.92). FI demonstrated the weakest reliability (CV = 3.9 ± 1.0%; ICC = 0.65; r = 0.13). These data suggest that the WAnT-Swim, when administered using the VASA swimming ergometer, is a reliable test of anaerobic power during land-based swimming.
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- 2024
- Full Text
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47. Sport Psychology in Collegiate Athletics: A Review of Mental Health Service Models
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Erin Albert, Michelle Joshua, and Ariane Smith Machin
- Abstract
In 2016, an NCAA multidisciplinary task force published a consensus document outlining best practices for addressing student-athletes mental wellness. However, despite their recommendations and the growing development of mental health services for college student-athletes, no published literature exists reviewing the existing models of collegiate sport psychology programs. This article serves to address that gap by providing a general overview of common models, followed by an in-depth description of a successful sport psychology model at a Power Five, Division I athletic program. Considerations and recommendations for other institutions, including barriers to student-athlete wellness, availability of university resources, and advantages and disadvantages of the models, will be discussed.
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- 2024
- Full Text
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48. College Football Performance, Student Earnings, and the Gender Wage Gap
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Monica Harber Carney
- Abstract
Fluctuations in U.S. college football team performance have been shown to have impacts on the student experience. This study explores the long-run implications, examining the impact of college football team performance relative to the period of student attendance on future earnings. Better college football team performance during the early years of school attendance increases average wages of male students, but does not impact female wages. Supplemental evidence suggests that positive shocks to student social networks may partly explain the positive impact on earnings. Better team performance near the time of graduation increases average wages for both men and women.
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- 2024
- Full Text
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49. Prevalence and Correlates of Appearance- and Performance-Enhancing Drugs and Substances Use among a National Sample of College Students Aged 18-30
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Kyle T. Ganson and Jason M. Nagata
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Objective: To identify the lifetime prevalence and correlates of appearance- and performance-enhancing drugs and substances (APEDS) use among a national sample of US college and university students. Participants: Student participants from the 2020-2021 Healthy Minds Study (N = 7,401; ages 18-30 years). Methods: Lifetime prevalence of five forms of APEDS was estimated. Modified Poisson regression analyses were conducted to determine the sociodemographic correlates of protein and creatine supplement use. Results: Lifetime protein (23.8%) and creatine (7.7%) supplement use were most common among the sample. Older age within young adulthood, male sex, perceiving oneself to be normal weight or somewhat overweight, any athletics participation, and 2-3 or [greater than or equal to] 5 h/week of exercise were associated with greater likelihood of lifetime protein and creatine supplement use. Conclusions: Awareness and prevention efforts on the potential harms of APEDS use are needed on campuses, particularly among males and those who participate in athletics and high-frequency exercise.
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- 2024
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50. Reflective Conversations as a Basis for Sport Coaches' Learning: A Theory-Informed Pedagogic Design for Educating Reflective Practitioners
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Anna Stodter, Ed Cope, and Robert C. Townsend
- Abstract
There is a clear need to design more effective professional learning environments, particularly in sport coaching as a developing educational profession. The purpose of this study was to investigate the interplay between theory-informed pedagogic design, the role of the coach developer, and sport coaches' perceived learning in a Higher Education online undergraduate module on reflective practice. The project involved designing a module based on domain-specific theories of coaches' learning and implementing multiple 'reflective conversations' with 21 professional association football coaches to structure their learning. Thematic analysis of data from 24 reflective conversations, five follow up semi-structured interviews and four focus group interviews, as well as a coach developer interview, determined perceptions of design, delivery and development. Findings demonstrated that theory-informed design and the aligned skill-set of the coach developer was significant in developing depth of participant coaches' understanding, and connecting theory to authentic reflective practice. The findings provide evidence to support the need for developing underpinning pedagogic design in the effectiveness of professional learning environments for developing reflective practitioners in educative professions such as sport coaching.
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- 2024
- Full Text
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