Search

Recreation and sports participation can produce social health benefits for college students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD). Despite growing numbers of college students with IDD on college campuses, literature exploring inclusion within campus recreation is limited. To understand the inclusion, or lack thereof, of college students with IDD in campus recreation, experiences and attitudes of campus recreation staff (N = 24) were examined. A mixed methods study design, including web-based surveys and semi-structured interviews was used to collect data from participants at three North American universities. Results of Multivariate Analysis of Variance and thematic analysis revealed successes, challenges, and barriers among campus recreation staff for implementing inclusion. A significant difference in perception of campus as being more inclusive between the university with Unified Sports affiliated with Special Olympics club and the university with Unified Sports affiliated with the university was also identified. Lastly, resources and strategies for inclusion were revealed as a need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concussion rates are commonly reported in high school and National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) sports. Given that participation in collegiate recreation is on the rise, institutions should examine concussion rates within their recreational programs. We, therefore, retrospectively examined a recreational department's injury reports establishing concussion rates across (n = 16) club and (n = 10) intramural sports at a public university in the southeastern United States from 2016 to 2019. One hundred and thirty-five concussions (club n = 56; intramural n = 79) were identified and constituted 12.4% of documented injuries (n = 1,088). The intramural concussion rate was 0.57 per 1,000 athletic exposures (AEs) and AE was greatest in outdoor soccer (0.99 per 1,000 AE). Therefore, our data suggests an increased incidence of concussions in intramurals compared to published rates in NCAA and high school sports. Collegiate recreational departments should consider these concussion rates when formulating risk management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

College years are a formative life stage; however, students who identify as a sexual minority participate in insufficient physical activity. This study examined differences in level of comfort 1) with/in campus recreation facilities overall, and 2) using specific amenities, by sexual orientation. Students at four public universities completed online surveys assessing perceived comfort using their campus recreation facility. Among participants (n = 160), Kruskal-Wallis analyses showed comfort using campus recreation facilities, free weights, non-intramural sports,and intramural sports was significantly higher among heterosexual students compared to sexual minority students (all p < 0.005). These findings highlight inequities in comfort using campus recreation facilities and provide evidence of the need for inclusive recreation spaces for all students regardless of sexual orientation. Future research is needed to assess LBGTQ+ student's health disparities related to campus recreation facility use and how to increase perceived comfort for all students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global COVID-19 pandemic made vulnerable work environments, and campus recreation departments could not avoid its influence. Previous studies focused on strategies and policies for reopening campus recreation facilities and the impacts of recreation programs on students and participants during the pandemic. Relatively little research has explored employees' perceptions about campus recreation departments' challenges and solutions, and employees' work experience during the pandemic has not been fully explored. This study explored employees' work experience related to burnout during the pandemic through semi-structured interviews with campus recreation employees (N = 10). The findings revealed stressors, including extra workload, and lack of interaction, and burnout symptoms, including exhaustion, and cynicism. The findings also revealed that employees utilized individual strategies to manage stressors, and the department made efforts to reduce employees' stress. The findings of this study will provide campus recreation practitioners with a better understanding of employees' experience related to burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address the growing health challenges faced by college students, campus recreation departments have evolved from a primary university intramural sport setting to organizations that have an increased emphasis on student recruitment, retention, and overall wellness. Among the strategies used to attract and engage students in campus recreation programs and services, health coaching shows some promise as a potentially effective intervention strategy. This study examined the efficacy of a university campus recreation health coaching program. Students from Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) disciplines (n = 34) were provided with individual, group, and virtual support to assist in developing effective strategies for academic success. Fitbit data measuring participants' sleep and physical activity were collected along with self-reported measures of stress and perceived happiness and focus group qualitative data focused on participants' perceptions of the program. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic forcing the program to adapt, findings suggest that health coaching may be an effective intervention strategy to help university students cope with the heightened anxiety and stress levels associated with campus life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amenity arms race among post-secondary institutions is driving the new development or expansion of campus recreation facilities. However, investing in new and larger campus recreation facilities may not necessarily translate into usage and ultimately provide the associated benefits to students. This study explored whether human resource capacity and program capacity are mechanisms that help explain the conditions under which facility capacity translates into facility usage. Secondary data were obtained from NIRSA's research and assessment initiative from post-secondary institutions in the United States (n = 103) that contained measures of relevance to this study. Regression analyses with bootstrapping were conducted to examine the hypothesized relationships including mediation. Results identified that an indirect only mediation model (full mediation) was present, such that greater facility capacity translates into increased facility usage through human resource capacity and program capacity. Therefore, recreation professionals and programs are indicated as pivotal to making the most of facility capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This rapid review was conducted to synthesize the empirical research related to campus recreation participatory experiences that was published between 2011 and 2021. To carry out the review, three databases (SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, Scopus) were systematically searched for peer reviewed empirical literature related to campus recreation participatory sport experiences. The results were then screened with predetermined criteria and 180 studies remained for data extraction. Data was extracted and trends were identified for discussion. When comparing the results to a similar review conducted on literature published between 1998–2010 (cf. Barcelona & Sweeney, 2012), the results of the reveal that the use of theory is becoming increasingly prevalent as scholars are more regularly providing theoretical frameworks, key constructs and discussing scholarly contributions. The review also revealed limitations such as inconsistencies with measurement and that most studies have been conducted at single institutions, which should both be addressed in future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore perceived constraints of structured outdoor recreation experiences for students attending a Historically Black College/University (HBCU). Data were collected from four focus group sessions. Grounded Theory was used to analyze the data and from an analysis of data, four themes emerged: 1. Family impact, 2. Companionship, 3. Social media and technology, and 4. HBCU and Black American cultures. This study confirmed the importance of social companionship and the need for relevant marketing strategies as motivators for Black student participation in outdoor recreation activities at this HBCU. A common thread among the groups, was the perception of Whiteness in outdoor spaces and its negative impact on outdoor recreation involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between wellness center use and depressive symptoms to increase understanding of how campus recreation affects first-year college students' mental health. A total of 172 first-year college students at a midsize university completed an in-person questionnaire. Based on their Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-8) scores, 54% of the students reported some depressive symptoms. A series chi-square analysis indicated: (1) female students tended to report a higher depressive symptom score than male students; (2) freshmen who use the wellness center more often or who go to the center with a friend reported less severe depressive symptoms, and (3) students who have participated in open recreation or intramural sports also reported fewer depressive symptoms than students who never participated in these activities. Our findings showed the importance of social interaction in college freshmen's recreation participation to reduce depressive symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing research in campus recreation establishes a relationship between facility use and academic outcomes, but published studies define users differently. In response to inconsistent definitions of participants in campus recreation, this study uses a data-driven approach to compare facility use definitions. Authors illustrate the implications of choosing different participant definitions for relationships between campus recreation and two undergraduate academic outcomes, first-year retention and first-year cumulative grade point average (GPA). This study uses data from a three-year timeframe, linking sources of data on students' recreation facility use, academic outcomes, and student records. Authors provide a summary of previous definitions, results from original regression analyses, results for specific student subgroups, and recommendations for defining users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research shows that collegiate recreation contributes to a greater sense of campus belonging for undergraduate students. Few studies, however, have examined the recreational interests of Black undergraduate students attending four-year colleges and universities. As part of a study comparing recreational preferences of Black and White students attending historically White institutions, 150 Black and 154 White undergraduate students were surveyed related to their interest in 27 recreational activities. Significant differences existed in several categories, but overall interest in outdoor recreation among Black undergraduate students was higher than expected, compared to prior literature. Moreover, findings were notable in several sport activities when comparing gender differences. Results support the notion that social, psychological, and institutional barriers exist that limit recreational involvement for certain groups. Findings may be useful for collegiate recreation professionals looking to promote sport and outdoor opportunities for undergraduate students of color on college campuses in the U.S. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Racial intolerance and violence in the United States, and on college campuses specifically, has created a dire need for universities to bridge gaps between students of diverse backgrounds and beliefs. Campus recreation programs offer promising environments for students from diverse identities to engage with each other and learn about peers, while increasing their openness to diversity. Despite this potential, little is known about how students engage with diversity in recreation contexts. This phenomenological study uncovered the experiences of students attending diversity-focused outdoor adventure trips and examined the facets of this recreation environment that contributed to engagement with diverse peers. Campus recreation administrators can use these findings to consider parallel experiences throughout recreation programs that can bring students from diverse backgrounds together. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

College students are at risk for adverse mental and physical health. Physical activity (PA) can reduce risks and promote positive mental health; however, less than half of college students meet PA recommendations. Further, few students seek ancillary help such as counseling services. Therefore, in this study we implemented a 5-week evidence-based PA program (#ubwell) in collaboration with counseling services designed to promote students' PA participation and motivation, as well as positive mood states and mental health. Results showed participants increased in positive feelings and arousal levels during all PA sessions. Additionally, intrinsic motivation significantly increased from pre to post, but PA participation and mood states did not change significantly. The increased motivation and positive affect are promising, and additional research with larger samples and additional campus recreation activities (e.g., fitness classes, intramurals) may provide greater insight into the benefits of PA programs for mental health and wellness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract College students are experiencing a decrease in life satisfaction in recent years. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between informal recreation participation and college students’ life satisfaction. This study involved eighteen (n=18) undergraduate college students who participated in unstructured, individual (i.e., informal) recreational activities at least once per week. Using semi-structured interviews, this qualitative study explored the relationship between informal recreation and life satisfaction from the lens of the Inter-association Definition of Well-being (IDW) Framework designed by NIRSA, NASPA, and ACHA. College students attributed their informal recreation participation to an improvement in life satisfaction and academic success. Findings support the importance of collaborations between campus recreation, student health centers, counseling centers, health promotion, athletics, building and grounds, information technology, and faculty and administrators in academic affairs to address college students’ lack of life satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates whether the benefits of participation in, and perceived service quality of, an intramural sport program contribute to student retention and overall program satisfaction. Health and wellness outcomes, student learning outcomes, service quality, program satisfaction, and student retention in intramural programming were assessed at one Canadian university. The results reveal that participants experience physical, emotional, social and academic outcomes as a result of participation in intramural programming. The results also reveal that benefits of participation (physical health and wellness, emotional wellness, academic learning outcomes, social learning outcomes) and service quality are associated with greater student retention and program satisfaction. The results highlight the unique association between physical health and wellness benefits and student retention. The results also highlight the association between service quality, social and emotional wellness and program satisfaction among participants. Implications for practice and future research are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Participation in recreation can produce health benefits for all college students and open pathways to inclusion for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD). Despite the growing number of college students with IDD on over 260 college campuses across the United States, there is a dearth of literature exploring their inclusion within campus recreation. This study examined how organizational culture of campus recreation departments and inclusive postsecondary education (IPSE) programs support and inhibit inclusion of college students with IDD. A constructivist qualitative case study design, which was instrumental and collective, was used with two universities in the Eastern Time Zone and one university in the Central Time Zone of the United States. A document review and individual interviews with administrative and frontline staff were conducted with each campus recreation department. An iterative and comparative process of analysis was utilized and included the use of poetic analysis. The results of this study revealed a critical need to assess and examine the inclusion of these students within campus life at large. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the rates of retention among students who entered a campus recreation facility. The purpose of the study was to determine the statistical significance of the rates of retention within several commonly studied demographic categories. Recent research in the field reported that student participation in campus recreation programs contributes to student retention. The researchers in this study also sought to determine whether there was a significant impact on campus recreation participants to return not only to the campus recreation center but to the university during the following fall term. Data were collected during a specific spring and subsequent fall semester to determine whether those who entered the recreation center during the spring enrolled in the fall term. Student entries were initially categorized by the number of visits 1–30, 31–60, 61–90, and 91–120 and were compared to students who did not enter. A χ2 analysis was conducted to compare the data collected from spring to fall terms and the results were separated by gender and overall participation. This suggests a positive relationship between entry into the recreation center and student retention from the spring to fall terms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium alba—chalk—is regularly applied by indoor and outdoor climbers to their hands to reduce sweat while climbing in order to grip climbing holds. We investigated the potential for suspended chalk dust to lead to unhealthy levels of indoor particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in two university climbing facilities. Low-cost, Dylos DC 1700 PM monitors sampled air quality during two, 5-day sampling periods. Findings revealed "good" PM values at one university climbing facility and "unhealthy" (PM2.5) or "very unhealthy" (PM10) values at the other institution's climbing wall. Facility predicted over 60% of the variance in PM readings, and post hoc tests revealed 75% of the variance in PM values at the second institution can be explained by open climbing hours. These findings hold a variety of implications for future research and management of university climbing wall facilities to ensure the health of staff and their patrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many U.S. college campuses have ways in which users' lives can be enriched through wellness efforts. Provision of wellness and recreational services through a state of the art or newly renovated recreation and wellness facility is one avenue. The primary goal of this study was to determine the level of campus recreation facility satisfaction and utilization outcomes among student users at a Midwestern U.S. institution. The Recreation Wellness Survey was designed and its items were successfully tested for reliability using Cronbach's α. Study results revealed that student perceptions of satisfaction in key areas predicted their development of healthy habits and overall satisfaction. The study highlights the necessity of satisfaction with key aspects of campus recreational facilities in the development of utilization outcomes among student users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the intersection of trans-identities and collegiate recreation program and services (CRS), this inquiry explored the perceived meanings and implications of gender-related competitive sport policy as interpreted by transgender students. Three trans-identifying students (n = 3) participated in this inquiry; each student reviewed collegiate recreation competitive sport policy excerpts and provided qualitative responses during phenomenological, semi-structured interviews. The resulting transcripts underwent a two-part, cyclical analysis to identify and explore common themes and phenomenological essence. Conclusionary themes indicated that CRS competitive sport policy—while possibly having the intent to be gender inclusive—may not be conclusively perceived as such. In addition, select—yet common—terminology used in CRS lexicon was perceived as being exclusive to trans-identities. These themes suggest that CRS trans-inclusive policy should consider the reception of its content during development and furthermore address a gap in literature by providing practitioners with insight as to the manner of which CRS policy is being perceived by their intended trans-audiences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Students will experience leisure boredom when they are not exposed to active recreation. The study aimed to determine the participation patterns in active recreation of undergraduate students at a South African university and to what degree they experience leisure boredom. A once-off cross-sectional design consisting of a sample of 581 students was used. Questions related to demographic information, participation frequency, participation format and leisure boredom were included. There were statistically significant differences between the gender groups' participation frequencies in netball (p=0.010) and social dancing (p=0.044). There were statistically significant differences between all racial groups' leisure boredom (p=0.000). Medium to large practical significant differences were found between Indian/Asian and Coloured (d=0.9), Coloured and White (d=0.7), and Indian/Asian students and African students (d=0.6). Statistically significant differences (p=0.017) for leisure boredom were found in the total sample for all three accommodation types. Most students prefer to participate on their own or with their friends sharing the same interests, but not all on-campus activities cater to individual participation. This could be because students are more likely to choose activities that provide social opportunities, with the social factor as the second highest -rated motivational factor for active recreation participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaders at Canadian universities seek to attract and graduate more Indigenous students as part of their institutions' strategic plans. Admissions and student retention data suggest that while progress is being made, a gap remains between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students and especially in the student retention area. Research has proven that student engagement plays a large role in facilitating academic progression and student retention in our institutions of higher learning. Throughout time, many students point to their experience as campus recreation program participants and/or leaders as their most important source of engagement. Some have suggested that campus recreation programs could play a larger and more effective role in engaging Indigenous students and heightening their retention rates. In this conceptual article, the authors analyze the student engagement and retention literature bases relative to Indigenous students. They also highlight the role that campus recreation programs can play in heightening Indigenous student engagement and retention and offer professionals 12 recommendations to help advance this strategic priority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strategic planning is a proactive process of analyzing an organization to identify the organization's values, mission, vision, goals, and objectives. Within campus recreation, research has focused on the processes of strategic planning, without examining the distinct organizational strategies of individual departments. The purpose of the study was to examine the content and structure of strategic plans within campus recreation and identify major priorities across institutions as a means to inform campus recreation practice. To achieve this aim, document analyses were conducted on campus recreation strategic plans of five large universities (public and private) across the United States for content and structure. The data were categorized by prominent strategic planning components outlined in Haines's campus recreation assessment model, from which codes and themes emerged. A standard of excellence, service, and outcomes were identified as major priorities across institutions and strategic planning components. The results demonstrated an ineffective structure of goals and objectives, highlighting areas for improvement. Through empirical investigation, industry standards can be established to enhance quality programming in campus recreation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the Big Five personality traits of 94 collegiate outdoor recreation (COR) professionals employed within a campus recreation setting and examined those in relation to their job satisfaction. An e-mail with a link to an online survey was sent to 233 campus recreation professional members of the Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education. Using the five-factor model (FFM) of personality, the researchers explored the relationship between personality traits (neuroticism, extroversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness) and level of affect toward common COR program duties (general office, personnel management, interpersonal, and program-specific). Results indicated that COR professionals ascribed the highest level of affect to personnel management tasks followed by interpersonal, program-specific, and then general office tasks. Extroversion was positively correlated with interpersonal job task affect as were agreeableness and openness to experience. Study results suggest that individuals with a higher rating on extroversion would be well suited to work in a COR setting. Such professionals would be creative problem solvers who work well within a group. The overall scoring patterns found indicate that COR professionals are less interested in typical "desk work" as they prefer the fieldwork and interpersonal/social aspects of the job. As interpersonal skills are vital to success in the COR profession, results suggest that when hiring, employers may wish to focus on those applicant traits. Since the necessary organization and administrative tasks are more easily taught to new hires, those skill sets may be taught on the job. To learn about applicant personality traits, employers may wish to integrate a personality assessment into the typical hiring practices to best match new staff with required job skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to (a) examine differences between type of physical activity (PA), college, gender, and body mass index (BMI); and (b) explore the needs of college students in regard to PA programming using the Transtheoretical Model (TTM). Students at a Midwestern university completed a PA programming questionnaire and the Stages of Change questionnaire. After exclusions, 535 questionnaires were analyzed. Of those surveyed, 45.6% met aerobic PA guidelines, 38.5% met muscle-strengthening guidelines, half of the students were of normal weight, and the other half were overweight or obese. Males participated in more PA than females in both categories. The greatest percentage of students were in the maintenance stage of the TTM (38.1%). In regard to PA programming, the largest percentage of students wanted more variety in times and styles for cardio and strength classes. Future campus recreation professionals could consider utilizing a similar survey to identify demographics and stage of change to better design PA programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the association between collegiate recreational sports (CRS) involvement and undergraduate retention rates after 1, 2, and 3 years of study at a midsized Canadian university. Astin’s theory of involvement and Tinto’s interactionist theory of student departure provided the conceptual underpinnings for the study. The results of the study indicated a significant association between CRS employment, or participation in intramural sports, with retention when compared to the broader student population that were not participating in intramural sports nor employed by the CRS department. These findings will assist recreation directors and program staff to ensure that the value of recreational activities for all students and the leadership opportunities provided through staffing programs and recreational facilities with students continues to be seen as important to university administrators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the relationship between campus recreation facility access and first-year retention of full-time, first-time undergraduate students at a public university for 2014–2015 through 2016–2017. Authors examine differences between facility users and nonusers by pairing facility swipe card data with student records. Statistical analysis includes logistic regression and matching approaches, controlling for student demographics, academic preparedness, academic goals, family characteristics, and various environmental factors. Results show a positive and significant relationship between recreation facility use and retention, including 7.1 to 8.4 percentage points higher retention for users versus nonusers, holding other variables constant. Subsample analysis suggests the relationship between recreation facility use and retention differs across student subgroups. Key study contributions include linking card swipe data on facility usage with extensive student records, clearly defining facility users and nonusers, and introducing a new robustness check based on assignment of students to residence halls different distances from recreation facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A current challenge for higher education is the declining trend of men attending college. Because of this downward trend, universities are working hard to attract male students. Club sports are a potential strategy to help recruit and retain male students. The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions of higher education administrators concerning the role club sports play in recruiting and retaining male students. Using a case study approach, administrators at four North Carolina schools were interviewed. In addition, campus tours and club sports facilities were observed, and document analysis was conducted on admissions, campus recreation, and club sports brochures, pamphlets and webpages. Results indicated that club sports are used at each institution to recruit and retain male students at varying levels. Although challenges exist, administrators acknowledged the possibility for success with a specific male market interested in club sport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have found that there is a positive relationship between the number of student visits to campus recreation and academic outcomes such as rates of graduation and grade point average (Huesman, Brown, Lee, Kellogg, & Radcliffe, 2009). Despite the strong correlation between use of fitness facilities and academic performance some students choose not to visit, while some who use the facilities may not be maximizing such use due to constraints (barriers). The purpose of this study was to understand the constraints to using the campus recreation facility at a midsized New England university. Moreover, this study sought to understand the types of management actions that would help increase use of the recreation center by current users. An online survey was distributed to a random sample (N = 2,400) of all campus recreation visitors in fall of 2013 using a modified Dillman method of distribution (2009). A total of 882 respondents completed the survey for a response rate of nearly 37%. Important results from this study included that female students were much more likely than male students to report being constrained by not knowing how to use the free weight section safely (M = 3.40, SD = 1.143; M = 2.68, SD = 1.166, respectively) and that male students suggested that they were more likely to participate than female students (M = 3.07, SD = 1.182; M = 2.96, SD = 1.235, respectively) at the Student Recreation Center (SRC) if they were not as involved with other activities. This information can be used to guide the expansion planning of future SRC projects and to help improve the participation habits of students at the case institution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive research has shown that sport club participation enhances student development, but little research has examined how specific officer roles in sport clubs may shape the experience. The purpose of this case study was to explore how sport club presidents at a midsized, public, four year institution in the Mid-Atlantic region described their involvement in an on-campus leadership opportunity. Eleven sport club presidents participated in the study, and shared their experiences through reflective journaling, and 30-min semistructured interviews. The researchers conducted document analysis for further review of the sport club program and president experience. Findings suggest that participation in the presidential role within the campus recreation sport club program at this institution provides an impactful developmental experience for students by enhancing specific skills that prepare students for careers beyond college more candidly than classroom education. Recommendations for sport club professionals and students regarding the outcomes associated with this ongoing campus leadership opportunity are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainability is a hot topic in higher education. Buzz words such as green and renewable have helped brand modern environmentalism. A greater emphasis on facility planning, development, and management is contributing to sustainability efforts. Collegiate recreational sports programs often include facilities that pose a challenge to the green movement, due to their size and operational requirements. To identify efforts within the collegiate recreational sports industry, this study focused on assessing the state of facility sustainability. The purpose of this study was to assess levels of institutional adoption related to sustainable initiatives at collegiate recreational sports facilities. This foundational study attempted to create some benchmark data for the collegiate recreation industry within the National Intramural-Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA). The Collegiate Recreational Sports Sustainability Survey was developed to assess the variables in the study and was sent to directors of NIRSA member institutions. This study used quantitative research methods and produced primarily descriptive research. This research produced a number of key findings: institutions that led in adoption levels per their respective category type were two-year public institutions, large enrollment institutions, institutions from NIRSA Region VI, and institutions that contain large collegiate recreational sports facilities. In addition, significant differences in adoption levels existed between four-year public and four-year private institutions, between large and small enrollment institutions, and between institutions that had large and small facilities. Implications from this study include providing benchmark data, creating advisory committees, and modeling NIRSA Region VI institutions. This study establishes a foundation for further research on sustainability efforts in collegiate recreational sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The NIRSA Championship Series (Series) is a significant component of NIRSA: Leaders in Collegiate Recreation (NIRSA). Demonstrated, in part, by the fact that many campus recreational professionals contend the events directly relate to both their institution and the association's mission. The purpose of this study was to gain an understanding of how NIRSA professionals perceive the value of volunteer experiences at Series events. The research team conducted semistructured interviews with thirteen campus recreation directors. The participants had a median of 28 years in the profession, (SD = 7.4), and represented all six NIRSA regions. In describing the benefits of volunteerism at Series events, the directors identified three broad themes, each with numerous subthemes: Personal Experience (Lifelong learner, Mentors, and Networking), Professional Development (Teamwork, Leadership, Communication, and Training), and Ideal Job Characteristics (Attitude and Organizational Citizenship Behaviors). The themes, subthemes, and implications for Series events are discussed. In addition, the authors present suggestions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study served to examine the environment for transgender participants in campus recreation. Research questions examined 1) policies, 2) facilities, 3) programs, 4) trainings in place at recreation centers to create an inclusive environment for transgender participants, and 5) how departments assess their transgender-inclusive practices. Findings indicate the majority (79%, n = 123) of institutions do not have policies related to transgender participants. Sixty-three percent of responding schools have gender-inclusive bathrooms while 44% have similar locker rooms. Over half (57%) collaborate with diversity offices for staff training with only 13% of those schools (n = 18) providing transgender-specific trainings. Finally, despite only 21% of respondents having transgender policies in place, the majority of respondents (79%) moderately or strongly agreed their department's mission, vision, or values addressed diversity in some manner and disagreed that their departments had shown resistance to implementing transgender policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the results from the 2013 National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) Assessment and Knowledge Consortium. Students (N = 33,522) from 38 different colleges and universities across the United States completed the Recreation and Wellness Benchmark instrument. Using Astin's Theory of Student Involvement (1984), this study sought to determine if there were significant differences between different depth and breadth levels of participants' campus recreational sports involvement/participation on student retention, health and wellness, and student learning outcomes. Heavy Users placed significantly more importance on campus recreational sports facilities and programs when deciding to continue at their college/university, and felt they had increased or improved every health and wellness and student learning outcome from their participation in campus recreation significantly more when compared with Moderate, Light, and Non-Users. Findings from this nationwide study demonstrate the value of collegiate recreation to the college and university experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiences university students have during outdoor recreation opportunities have holistic benefits, yet there is a sizeable discrepancy in the representation of marginalized students in outdoor campus recreation. The structural, interpersonal, and intrapersonal constraints that marginalized students experience are often cited as a reason for this reduced participation. It is possible that viewing these constraints individually is an oversimplification. In the same way that a student has an intersection of identities, so too can constraints intersect to compound and multiply barriers to participation. If we wish to have a more just university community, in which all students can experience the benefits of outdoor recreation, we must think critically about the intersectionality of constraints that hinder these students from fully participating and take action to address them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate differences in academic indicators among intramural sports participants and nonparticipants following their first year of college. Matched samples (N = 1,796; 898 pairs) were generated based on demographic variables. Data were obtained from university databases. Paired sample t tests and logistic regression were used to assess differences between participants and nonparticipants. First-semester and first-year grade point average were significantly higher (p <.001) for participants than nonparticipants. First-semester and first-year credit difference were significantly lower (p <.001) for intramural sports participants than nonparticipants. Participants were more than twice as likely to be retained than nonparticipants and 40% more likely to achieve sophomore status. Results suggest that freshmen students participating in intramural sports during their first year of college achieve greater academic success than nonparticipants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this investigation is to examine the relationship of intramural participation with academic performance and retention rates in first time in college (FTIC) students. Intramural participation of all students was tracked during the fall 2010 and spring 2011 semesters. An intramural database of participants was cross-referenced with an institutional database to compare grade point average (GPA) and retention rates based on intramural participation. There was no significant difference in GPA between the intramural participation groups as determined by one-way ANOVA, F(2, 586) = 1.669, p = .189 (during the fall 2010 semester) or F(2, 557) = .102, p = .903 (during the spring 2011 semester). The retention rate was 5.9% higher in those FTIC students that participated in intramurals. The results support the consideration of intramural participation as a factor in increasing retention through providing opportunities for campus engagement without the fear of hindering academic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Millennial cohort (those born between 1980-2000) is the future workforce in the United States. A review of literature revealed that much research has been conducted regarding this cohort's motivation in the work place and desired work attributes. However, there is little to no research regarding the Millennial cohort of campus recreation. Therefore, current student members of NIRSA pursuing a career in campus recreational sports were surveyed to determine what work attributes they desired in their professional positions. The findings revealed that the internal attributes (i.e., people you work with, skill development) of the job were more important than the external attributes (i.e., location, compensation). Further investigation found that this cohort is more similar within than they are different. However, some of the Millennials' desired work attributes may vary from previous generation's desired work attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Campus Recreation should be providing sport and recreation opportunities to students of all social identity groups. This includes students with physical and sensory disabilities. In fact, federal law mandates that equal opportunity and access to extracurricular athletics should exist for this population. Despite evident personal and social benefits to participation in campus recreation, an in-depth understanding of how programs and initiatives are being developed to meet the various needs and preferences of students is missing from the literature. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine program development of collegiate adapted sports. After initially interviewing thirteen leaders from six collegiate goalball, we decided to focus on the intrinsic case of LU goalball in order to tell its narrative with rich detail from beginning to end. The voices recounting the process of creating LU goalball are three of its foundational leaders: a student, a coach and an assistant director of campus recreation. We contextualized their lived accounts using three of four components of the change process identified by the theory and practice of multicultural organization development: identification of change agents, organization readiness and planning and implementation. As a whole, findings demonstrate the process undertaken by one collegiate goalball program as well as the impact it had at an individual and institutional level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outstanding student employees are essential for campus recreation programs to achieve organizational goals. To that end, this study examined the effectiveness of a leadership development program in which three groups of campus recreation (rec sports) student employees participated at various levels in the following: oncampus training, an off-site retreat, a scavenger hunt, and biweekly meetings. Using a quasi-experimental design, data were collected in two phases from 51 students and measured the growth of each student's leadership capabilities as reported using the Student Leadership Practices Inventory. Statistical analyses revealed that group membership did significantly affect growth in the student's leadership capacity, F(2, 48) = 7.07, p = .002, ?² = .228. Campus recreation programs are increasingly held accountable and rec sports professionals must understand assessment is vital. The results of this study reveal that rec sports professionals can impact the development of student leaders. Specifically, the findings indicate that growth does not occur with condensed training. Indeed lasting, meaningful growth transpires only when leadership lessons are embedded using a sustained approach. Implications for research and practice are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The current study explores the role of health-related mechanisms (i.e. sleep, social support, and stress) in accounting for the impact of student recreation center (SRC) use on college-student well-being. Participants: Students (N = 540; Mage =23.67, SD = 7.10; 65.6% female) with membership to the SRC were recruited to complete an online survey. Method: The survey was implemented in Spring 2017 and included questions on SRC use (e.g. hours spent, facilities used), mental well-being (e.g. anxiety, depressive symptoms), physical well-being (e.g. height, weight, somatic symptoms), and the health-related mechanisms. Results: SRC frequency was associated with reduced somatic symptoms and ratings of overall health, though not mental health outcomes. Sleep was the most robust mechanism explaining the link between SRC use and physical health. Conclusion: Given the importance of sleep, educational institutions can promote student well-being by supporting SRC use and sleep quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This qualitative case study explored the manner by which team captains and intramural players were educated about the Sportsmanship Rating System (SRS) used by their intramural sports program and their perceptions about the SRS. While some form of an SRS is widely used by NIRSA members (Stier et al., 2008), virtually no research has been conducted as to its effectiveness. The site was a medium sized, public, four year institution in the mid-Atlantic region. A total of 31 participants took part in the study. Data collection took place over a six-week time period and included a) observation, b) document analysis, c) interviews, and d) focus groups. The findings revealed that an SRS is mostly ineffective in positively modifying sportsmanship behavior unless the intramural participants are properly educated about the SRS and understand its scoring criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated if international students face unique interpersonal, intrapersonal, and structural constraints to participation in intramural sports. Surveys were collected from 292 participants, with proportionate representation of international and noninternational students when compared with the broader university population. Results demonstrated that international students who have participated in intramural sports experience significantly higher interpersonal and intrapersonal constraints when compared with noninternational students who also have participated in intramural sports. There were no significant differences in the three types of constraints between international vs. noninternational students who have not participated in intramural sports. It was concluded that campus recreation and international student service departments at universities need to collaborate to foster awareness, promote the benefits of participation, and assist international students in overcoming these constraints to participating in intramural sports. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine the need for marketing efforts and a marketing plan within the campus recreation profession. Participants consisted of 218 campus recreation administrators from four-year public and private institutions affiliated with the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA). Results from this research suggest that established marketing strategies and marketing plans provide the campus recreation profession coordination with their marketing efforts. The second component of this research requested that respondent's identify marketing techniques being used in the campus recreation profession. Results from this research suggest that employee skills and responsibilities, external guidelines, budget constraints, and marketing mediums provide challenges to the campus recreation profession. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Job satisfaction is among the most researched concepts in the study of organi- zational behavior, particularly because of managers' interests in the favorable consequences associated with high job satisfaction. Previous research, however, has largely overlooked part-time employees. This insufficiency is especially problematic for sport and recreation organizations, which often rely heavily on part-time employees to fill specialized roles. The present study was conducted to assess the determinants of job satisfaction among part-time student employees of a university recreational sports department. The results have significant implica- tions for similar organizations. A comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to job satisfaction provides recreational sports administrators with the necessary tools to enhance satisfaction in the student workplace, and ultimately overall productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Society, government, and the economy have a direct impact on the condition and availability of facilities at public colleges and universities across the country. This article explores the factors that have led to the current state of facilities and specific attention is given campus recreation facilities. Strategies for addressing the backlog of deferred maintenance are included. Stakeholders need to work collaboratively to ensure an institution has the recreation facilities needed for the campus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bob Dylan's "The Times They Are A-Changin'" describes the situation facing most college and university leaders as a result of the recent economic downturn. All financial commitments are under review, if not attack. Strong, executive leadership has always been needed in campus recreation, and the field has been well served by great leaders throughout time. That said, there are new challenges to address, due in large part to economic realities. Leadership theorists of the day call for a new type of leadership, one that is also well suited to the campus recreation area. This article tracks the latest developments in leadership and encourages directors to adopt (or reaffirm) four leadership practices that will help them lead their programs more effectively in addition to positioning the programs for ongoing support during these challenging economic times. As Bill George (2009, p. 2) noted in his recent book entitled Lessons for Leading in Crisis, a "smooth sea never produced a strong mariner." Perfect storms are developing across our respective campuses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An international investigation was conducted to determine the overall job satisfaction of college campus recreation employees who are members of the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA). Demographic information was gathered to provide statistical analysis based on (a) region; (b) size of school; (c) private versus public; (d) four-year versus two-year schools; (e) rural, suburban, and urban location; (f) years in the profession; and (g) reporting structure. The following work related areas were examined to determine if NIRSA members were satisfied with their job environment: (a) personal/individual satisfaction, (b) staffing and organizational structure, (c) financial support, (d) salary and professional development, (e) department and individual expectations, (f) campus recreation facilities, and (g) campus collaboration and communication. The study found that overall the respondents indicated they were satisfied with their job situation/environment with greater satisfaction being shown by those with loftier job titles when compared with those with lesser job titles. Differences in job satisfaction were noted in terms of (a) supervisor's expectations of them, salary, and hours worked (based on amount of experience); (b) salary (based on title held); (c) budget allocation (based on reporting structure); and (d) a desire to leave their present position/job (in terms of job title held, experience/length of service and reporting structure). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted at a campus recreation department through the Aggie Blue Bikes (ABB) program. The purpose of this study was to determine changes in bicycle commuting involvement level in a pretest-posttest design, and to determine predictors of ABB participation level conducted in a regression analysis. The results were significant change scores for a unidimensional measure of involvement and for involvement subscales (centrality, identity expression and identity affirmation dimensions), but not significantly so for attraction and social bonding dimensions. ABB participation was predicted by involvement, motor vehicle ownership, and gender, but route safety and weather were not significant predictors. These findings may be of importance to researchers in active transport, city planning, and recreation and leisure. Campus recreation professionals can use the information toward increasing physically active students through bicycle commuting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study integrated the services marketing and social identity literature to examine the moderating effect of Identification on the relationship between service quality factors (i.e., Program Quality, Interaction Quality, Outcome Quality, Physical Environment Quality) and Satisfaction. The study was administered using a modified version of Ko and Pastore's (2007) Scale of Service Quality in Recreational Sports (SSQRS) and Wann and Branscombe's (1990) team identification questionnaire. Data were collected from more than 4,000 campus faculty and undergraduate student recreational users attending a university within the Middle Atlantic region of the United States. Results of the regression analysis demonstrated that Identification had a significant interactive effect when added to Outcome Quality, F(1, 3663) = 105.869, p < .001, such that higher Identification is related to higher Satisfaction. Identification also had a significant interactive effect with Program Quality, F(1, 3850) = 25.281, p < .001, such that higher Identification is related to lower Satisfaction. There was no significant interactive effect between Identification and Interaction Quality, F(1,3692) = 1.464, p = .226; and Physical Environment Quality, F(1, 3721) = 1.977, p = .160. The findings have important implications for campus recreation professionals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]