Transition Experiences of Former Collegiate Women’s Soccer Athletes

• DOI: 10.17161/jis.v14i2.14523
• Publication Date: 2021-09-05T05:02:18Z
• Authors: J.D. DeFreese; Erianne Weight; Jamie DeCicco; Aliza Nedimyer; Zachary Kerr; Kevin Carneiro; Jason Mihalik; Avinash Chandran
• Keywords: Mentorship; Sport Psychology; Sports Science

Athlete transition from American collegiate sport participation, to non-sport careers or professional sport, has been a topic of contemporary science research but it is still not well understood, especially in female athlete populations. Informed by extant theory, the current study purpose was describe experiences former women’s soccer athletes, including both positive and negative contributing factors. Using deductive conceptual content analysis, results showcase (i.e., social support, career goals, recreational play) lack team/support, soccer/competition, direction) contributors post-collegiate for athletes sampled. The importance athletic identity potential resources were identified. Specifically, participants endorsed guidance, physical activity/exercise, mentorship programming, mental health as potentially helpful future athletes. Study findings expanded upon relevant theory research. Our may inform program development efforts aimed at other sports.