Sports Management Commons^™

Locker Room To The Classroom, Bert Wicks

Masters Theses

This thesis sought to explore the feasibility of using graduated collegiate athletes to supplement teaching populations to mitigate the teaching shortage in America. The researcher interviewed five professionals in education and five current college athletes to assist in answering two research questions. What are the perceptions of school administrators regarding the employment of former collegiate athletes as public-school teachers, in comparison to educators with formal academic training in education, and what are the attitudes of current and former collegiate athletes on the prospects of pursuing careers in public school teaching relative to employment opportunities aligned with their academic major were …

An Empirical Analysis Of Augmented Reality’S Impact On Fan Engagement And Behavioral Intention To Use: A Technology Acceptance Model Study Among U.S.-Based Major League Soccer Fans, Gozde Sezgun

Masters Theses

Although augmented reality (AR) is becoming a routine part of how sport is consumed, evidence specific to Major League Soccer (MLS) remains limited. This study applies the technology acceptance model (TAM) to examine how perceived ease of use (PEOU) and perceived usefulness (PU) relate to behavioral intention to use (BI) and to two experience outcomes−fan engagement and fan satisfaction in the MLS context. The study is a nonexperimental, cross-sectional online survey of U.S.-based adult MLS fans with prior exposure to AR in an MLS context, including live stat overlays, in-stadium wayfinding, interactive replays, and virtual try-ons. Constructs were measured with …

The Effect Of Transfer Student Enrollment On The Overall Gpa In Division I Men’S Basketball, Emme Hurn

Masters Theses

The study explored the impact that transfer student-athletes have on the overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of a team in Division I Men’s Basketball. Through the use of Alexander Astin’s Input-Environment-Output model, academic preparation and environments were examined to determine their role in academic outcomes. The purpose of this research was to test this theory in order to answer three key research questions: Is there a statistically significant difference in overall team GPA when comparing Division I men’s basketball teams with a high number of transfer student-athletes, and teams with no transfer student-athletes? What is the relationship between the number …

Exploring The Possibility Of A Salary Floor In Major League Baseball (Mlb), Tyler Michael Jones

Masters Theses

This non-experimental quantitative study examined the relationship between team payroll disparities, fan engagement, and perceptions of fairness in Major League Baseball (MLB). Guided by Competitive Balance Theory, the study sought to determine if perceived fairness influenced fan support for the implementation of a salary floor, and whether those attitudes differed across demographic and team context. Data were collected from 200 adult MLB fans residing in the United States and Canada using an online survey distributed via social media platforms. The instrument included demographic items and Likert-scale measures assessing fairness perceptions, fan engagement, and policy support. Data were analyzed using hierarchical …

High Turnover On The Menu - Understanding Post-Covid Employee Retention Rates Within Public Assembly Venues In New York City, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study explores food and beverage employee turnover rates within sport venues in New York City. The topic holds public interest due to the documented correlation between guest satisfaction and employee satisfaction. It is ethical and feasible, focusing on real-world management challenges in the hospitality industry. By narrowing the scope to a specific population, the study aims to provide actionable insights into employee retention in a post-Covid landscape.

Ai In Hospitality - Guest Satisfaction With Humanoid Robot (Aura) At The Las Vegas Sphere, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

Our topic focuses on guest satisfaction with the increasing use of AI in hospitality. The article “A.I. The Rise of Artificial Intelligence” shows how AI improves guest satisfaction and their overall experience. The Sphere in Las Vegas uses AI heavily in large-scale events, making it an ideal focus. We will use surveys and interviews with guests that could provide insight into satisfaction with AI (Figure 1). The questions we would use only gather opinions, staying within ethical standards. Focusing on one venue keeps the proposal manageable while offering valuable insight into how guests perceive AI in hospitality and tourism.

Balancing Pressure And Support - Examining Burnout And Mental Health In Teenage Athletes, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

Analyzing the relationship between coaching styles and athlete burnout. It is an important and interesting topic because over the last few years participation in youth sports has dropped, this is an issue because sports teach valuable lessons. The topic is plausible because it can survey athletes and use that information to help.

Development Pathways In Soccer - A Comparative Study Of U.S. Academies, Ncaa Programs, And European Systems, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study seeks to compare the soccer development pathways of U.S. youth club academy systems, NCAA collegiate programs, and European youth club academy systems. Along with this, the research aims to identify what creates a factor of success. Additionally, it will focus on what specifically the club and college systems are doing collectively to develop their rosters. This comparison offers value in that it provides cumulative information on the biggest developmental soccer programs in the world. Additionally, it brings to light the differences amongst the pathways to better showcase factors of success and allow for future improvements to be made …

Exploring Fan Engagement Strategies In Ncaa Division I Athletics - A Descriptive Study, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

College athletic programs live off the support of their passionate fans. Whether lifelong supporters or casual viewers, these fans help keep programs thriving. Despite strong environments and culture, some schools struggle to maintain fan engagement year after year. This study seeks to understand what top Division I programs do to keep fans engaged through attendance, financial giving, and viewership. The findings aim to address the problem of unengaged fans and help build stronger, more successful athletic programs.

Flipping Commitments - Exploring Factors Behind College Football Recruiting De-Commitments, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

While recruiting de-commitments are widely reported in the media, there is little scholarly research on their causes and implications. This study will help fill that gap by analyzing the factors influencing de-commitments in Power Four football.

From Snacks To Seats - Examining The Influence Of Concessions On Return Attendance For Liberty University Hockey, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study will explore the correlation between attendees’ levels of satisfaction with concessions at Liberty University men’s club sports D1 hockey games and their return attendance at future games. The insights derived from this research will inform collegiate hockey programs’ event concessions and attendance practices.

From Tradition To Transaction - The Role Of Nil In Shaping College Football Recruiting Culture, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study assesses how current changing rules with NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) and revenue sharing are impacting the recruiting world—specifically how they influence prospective NCAA Division I football student-athlete decision-making. The topic is timely and ethical, addressing how recruiting strategies and athlete priorities are shifting due to evolving NCAA policies. It has drawn attention from fans, staff, and athletes, and even reached the Supreme Court, making it a relevant and impactful area of inquiry.

Leadership, Culture, And Sustained Success - Comparative Case On Belichick's Patriots And Reid's Chiefs, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study examines how transformational leadership and organizational culture contribute to long-term success in the NFL, focusing on two exceptional franchises: the New England Patriots under Bill Belichick and the Kansas City Chiefs under Andy Reid. By using the Multi-Factor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) and the Organizational Culture Assessment Instrument (OCAI), the research analyzes leadership behaviors and cultural values through player interviews, press conferences, NFL Films, and archival data. The rationale is to understand how leadership and culture—not just talent or tactics—drive sustained excellence in professional sports, offering insights applicable to both sports and non-sports organizations.

Nil And Gender Equality In Division 1 Athletics - Intergrating Institutional Support, Marketplace Dynamics, And Athlete Earnings, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study explores gender-based disparities in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) opportunities within Division I athletics, focusing on differences in institutional support and funding. The rationale highlights the unequal distribution of NIL earnings between male and female athletes and the need for more equitable access. By examining both quantitative earnings data and qualitative athlete perceptions, the study aims to promote fairer NIL practices across collegiate sports.

Private Equity And Llc Models In College Athletics - Emerging Revenue Strategies In The Power Four, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

Prompted by the University of Kentucky’s formation of a not-for-profit LLC as a revenue strategy, this study investigates the impact and future implications of LLCs and private equity in NCAA athletic departments. The rationale is rooted in the growing financial pressures and opportunities following the House settlement, with athletic directors seeking innovative ways to generate revenue. This research aims to understand how these models affect revenue generation and distribution across Power Four programs.

Social Media Behaviors & In-Person Attendance - A Mixed-Methods Study Of Small-Market Nba Teams, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study examines how social media behavior influences attendance at small-market NBA games. Social media behavior is categorized into two areas: marketing and fan engagement. The rationale stems from the inconsistency in attendance among small-market teams and the lack of research focused on these markets. Understanding how digital engagement affects live attendance can help teams refine their marketing strategies and boost ticket sales.

Social Media Marketing And Fan Engagement - A Quantitative Study Of Nba Strategies, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study investigates how different forms of social media marketing—specifically pictures, graphics, and reels—impact fan engagement in the NBA. As digital platforms increasingly replace traditional media, understanding which strategies most effectively engage fans is crucial for sports organizations. The study is grounded in existing research and uses Instagram analytics to assess engagement metrics, offering practical insights for marketing teams.

The Beauty Of Uniquity - A Regression Analysis Of Mlb Pitchers With Anomalous Arm Angles, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study examines the effect of arm angle on pitcher success and the potential for injury prevention based on arm angle. With the rise of advanced metrics like Statcast, pitcher mechanics—especially arm angle—have become key indicators of performance. The research explores how different arm angles influence pitch movement, velocity, and injury risk, suggesting that pitchers with a “low ¾ arm angle” may best balance performance and long-term arm health.

The Correlation Between Tommy John Surgery And Pitching Velocity, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study investigates the relationship between increasing fastball velocity and the rising number of Tommy John surgeries (UCL reconstructions) among Major League Baseball pitchers. The rationale is to understand whether higher pitching velocities contribute to injury risk and to equip coaches and trainers with tools to identify warning signs and prevent future injuries.

Televised Youth Sport And Athlete Well-Being - A Study Of The Little League World Series, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study analyzes the commercialization of the Little League World Series (LLWS) and its psychological effects on young athletes, including stress, identity, and enjoyment. The rationale stems from growing concerns about media pressure and public attention on children in sport. The study is ethical, feasible, and valuable for understanding how televised youth events may impact athlete well-being and development.

Event Tourism And Hotel Revenue Management - The Impact Of College Graduations On Lynchburg's Lodging Industry, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study explores the economic impact of college graduation weekends on hotel revenue in Lynchburg, Virginia. While hotels commonly adjust rates in response to seasonal demand, little research has focused on how recurring events in college towns influence revenue management practices. The project is both relevant and ethical, seeking to understand how hotels can maximize profitability during graduation weekends without engaging in price gouging. Ultimately, the findings aim to provide valuable insight into sustainable revenue management strategies for hotels in college towns.

The Shifting Landscape Of Ncaa Recruiting - Nil's Impact On Division 1 Football In Mid-Major Schools, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study examines how Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies have reshaped recruiting outcomes at mid-major NCAA Division I football programs. The rationale is to understand how mid-major schools can leverage NIL opportunities to compete with Power Four institutions by building local partnerships and customized athlete branding, despite having fewer resources and less media exposure.

Traditions, Belonging, And Intent To Return - Testing Predictors Of Fan Loyalty At Liberty Football, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

This study explores how fan traditions and a sense of belonging influence long-term loyalty among Liberty University football fans. The rationale is to understand the psychological and sociological factors that drive fan engagement and return intent, which can inform marketing strategies and improve fan retention.

Sport Leadership Summit Summary, Liberty University

Sport Leadership Summit

Monday, October 27, 2025

8:45 – 9:10 a.m. – Check-In

9:15 – 11:45 a.m. – Panel Discussions

12:00 – 1:00 p.m. – Lunch & Keynote

1:00 – 2:00 p.m. – Research: Oral Presentations

2:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Panel Discussions

4:00 – 4:30 p.m. – Wrap-Up

Tuesday, October 28, 2025

8:45 – 9:10 a.m. – Check-In

9:15 – 11:45 a.m. – Panel Discussions

12:00 – 1:00 p.m. – Lunch & Keynote

1:00 – 2:00 p.m. – Research: Poster Presentations

2:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Panel Discussions

4:00 – 4:30 p.m. – Wrap-Up

Can You Slow Down A Ticking Clock? An Examination Of The Predictors Of Workaholism And How Each Influences A Correlation Between Workaholism And The Work-Life Balance Of Ncaa Division I Coaches, Brooke Elizabeth Yerger

Doctoral Dissertations and Projects

The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is one of the largest companies in the world. It is responsible for generating millions of dollars through various sporting events, including the College World Series, the College Football Playoffs, and March Madness. However, this industry is prone to high stress levels, workaholism, and poor work-life balance among the coaches employed by NCAA institutions. Lower work-life balance levels can result in poor overall well-being. These coaches are responsible not only for themselves and their families, but also for the many student-athletes they interact with. If they are not satisfied, their ability to interact positively …

The Identity Crisis Of Nil: A Mixed-Method Exploration Of Athlete Brand Perception And Adaptation, Ep Kester

Masters Theses

In the evolving era of athletics, student-athletes find themselves at the center of many contemporary conversations. Consequently, the pressure to create and maintain a brand is commonly observed in collegiate sport. Considering, this study investigates the brand identity perceptions of Division I athletes at Liberty University. Employing a mixed methods approach, this study makes use of a quantitative survey adapted from the validated ABidS (Athlete Brand Identity Scale), as well as qualitative in-depth interviews. The semi-structured interviews provided complex data that indicate areas of brand identity like entitlement, responsibility and program obligation. This research seeks to elucidate branding dynamics surrounding …

Comparative Analysis Of Regression And Random Forest Models For Player Performance Prediction In The Mls, Joshua Clement Madeti

Senior Honors Theses

Advanced technology and analytics have transformed the world and have benefited several industries throughout, the sport industry being one of them. Data is constantly generated during sports and requires post-game or post-season analysis which is crucial to team and player success. In this paper, the researcher will focus on the impact of analytics on soccer and soccer players. With over three billion active fans, soccer is the most famous sport in the world yet, when it comes to analytics, it is lagging. The thesis includes a comparative study of multiple linear regression and random forest regression to explore whether these …

The Formation Of The American League In Baseball; Changes In American Society And Culture That Contributed To The Demand For More Baseball In The Late 19th Century, Shawn M. Smith

Bound Away: The Liberty Journal of History

The second professional major league (the American League) in baseball came about in response to the demand for more baseball entertainment due to the increased amount of leisure time Americans had in the late-19th century as society started the shift from an agricultural based lifestyle to a culture who worked predominantly in factory work.

The culture and society of the day changed drastically due to changing economic conditions of the time period. Due to monumental changes in industry, the vast majority of the population had shifted from working in an agrarian society to working in factories as a result of …

Nil: An Analysis Of The New Financial Compensation Policy For College Athletes And Its Impact On College Athletics, Bruna Gebaili Sampaio

Senior Honors Theses

The newly introduced NCAA Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) laws allow college athletes to have additional opportunities for financial compensation, permitting them to generate revenue out of their image and personal brand. Due to these new regulations, the traditional concept of amateurism in college athletics has been significantly altered. Despite the contracts in no way being able to be based or compensated on an athlete’s on-court performance, these regulations put a strain on the amateurism principles that have marked college athletics in the last century.

These new laws also put to doubt the future of college athletics as we know …

A Comparative Study Of Leadership Styles Of U.S. Olympic Swimming Head Coaches, Stephanie Barnes

Masters Theses

The role of leadership is paramount in successful sport coaching. The current study explored the realm of coaching in swimming to gain a deeper understanding of the unique and diverse leadership styles of U.S. Olympic Head Swimming Coaches. This study employed a qualitative phenomenological research design using a case study approach with two specific cases. Purposeful sampling was utilized to investigate two former U.S. Olympic Head Swimming Coaches with a combined 80 years of elite professional swim coach experience. Through semi-structured interviews and detailed questions, meaningful insight was gained into coaching practices, athlete interactions, and self-perceived effectiveness. Data analysis utilizing …