Abstract

This is a descriptive study using a qualitative method. It concerns the experiences of former collegiate athletes who chose a career in coaching. Interviews explored (a) motivation of career choice and satisfaction, (b) career challenges, (c) other career areas they explored. This is valuable information for collegiate athletes facing career-related decisions. Many athletic departments do not overtly discuss career options for athletes because of an assumption that doing so diminishes the focus on the current athlete's ambition to make a career of the chosen sport. Yet many athletes will not continue into professional sports, and for those who do, sport careers do not last as long as most careers, due to aging out. Those who choose coaching as a career may find useful career guidance in this research. Coaches should make an effort to discuss with athletes the importance of visiting career counseling or in other ways exploring career options, because even for those who do go into professional sports, the duration of a peak competitive performance in such a career is limited.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Dissertations (EdD) -- Organizational leadership; Coaches (Athletics) -- Job satisfaction; College athletes -- Attitudes

Date of Award

2019

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Education

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Gandhi, Shreyas

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