A Holistic Evaluation of Transition From Sport Programming Offered by NCAA Athletic Departments

Abstract

Scholars have pointed to numerous struggles retiring college athletes face as they transition out of sport (e.g., anxiety, isolation, body image issues; Kiefer et al., 2021; Lavallee et al., 1997; McKnight et al., 2009; Papathomas & Lavallee, 2010; Papathomas et al., 2018; Semaia, n.d.; Smith & Hardin, 2018, 2020; Stokowski et al., 2019). Though research has explored individual transition experiences, what is missing is an investigation into existing programming offered by NCAA athletic departments and its effectiveness on athletes’ biopsychosocial (i.e., social, mental, and physical) well-being. This mixed-methods study examines programming available from institutions across NCAA divisions, its effectiveness, and areas of need. Research findings provide insight into the impact that current programming can have on athlete biopsychosocial well-being, specifically areas of nutrition, physical activity, and alumni participation. However, more consideration needs to be given to distributing these types of programmings across all three divisions.