Antecedents and Consequences of Student-Athletes’ Contentment With Academic Services

The purpose of this study sought to investigate factors that influence student-athletes’ satisfaction with academic services within athletics departments. Additionally, we examined the relationship between student-athletes’ satisfaction and academic performance (i.e., GPA). A total of 226 NCAA Division I student-athletes from a Midwestern university competing in a mid-major conference participated. A survey consisting of 22 questions was created to assess the satisfaction of the four major factors (facilities, staff, tutoring, and advising programs) of academic advising services. Results revealed that student-athletes were satisfied with academic services, but satisfaction differed among class levels, with freshman athletes reporting lower levels of satisfaction than junior and senior athletes. Additional results showed that facilities and staff have significant influences on student-athletes’ satisfaction with academic services. Furthermore, there was a significant relationship between student-athletes’ satisfaction and GPA. The findings provide partial support for the proposed theoretical model, which suggests that athletics departments should provide adequate, accessible academic facilities and hire properly-trained staff

March Madness in the Collegiate Sport Workplace: Cultural Implications for Sport Employees

Drawing upon Schein and Schein’s three-level conceptual framework of organizational culture, the purpose of this study was to examine how organizational culture and a sense of community manifest within intercollegiate athletics departments during March Madness. Considering the popularity of intercollegiate sport and March Madness, it is important for scholars to understand how organizational culture may influence the attitudes and behaviors of collegiate sport employees in the workplace. Thus, semi-structured interviews and observations were conducted to better understand how culture, community, and the phenomenon of March Madness traverse. Analysis of the data revealed a unique organizational culture within intercollegiate athletics departments, distinguishing them from other nonsport organizations. It was also discovered that socialization processes occur during March Madness, which can foster a sense of community. Implications for these findings are discussed and practical recommendations for collegiate athletics departments are provided