In this episode we talk about the “student-athlete experience” and the misperceptions surrounding this critical element to athletics program administration.
Many people consider the student-athlete experience to be the most important element of their athletics program. However, many can’t articulate what that experience is or does for student-athletes. Our research has revealed several common characteristics that administrators should be aware when thinking about their student-athlete experience.
What Student-Athletes Think They Need- “Stuff”
When asked, student-athletes will give a long laundry list of what they need to be successful and have a great experience: facilities, uniforms, gear, locker rooms, travel schedules to name just a few.
What Student-Athletes Want, Hope and Expect- “Emotional Connection and Support”
After filtering through the “stuff” you’ll reveal that student-athletes have a strong need for their experience to validate their commitment and their identity. They want coaches, faculty and other students to understand their passion for sport and the importance of athletics to their educational experience. This requires acknowledgement and engagement.
What Student-Athletes Really Need- “Practical Support”
Student-athletes need advocates to represent their interests and needs. Coaches, athletics administrators, faculty athletics representatives and SAAC members all play key roles in supporting student-athletes.
Your Action Plan
Establishing a culture of communication, trust and accountability is essential to understanding and improving the student-athlete experience. Administrators must understand the current climate, clarify what their student-athlete experience should be and engage student-athletes in an on-going process that annually assesses progress. Keys steps: ask student-athletes; actively listen; acknowledge and respond.
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