Sports Studies Commons^™

The Impact Of Body Image On Self-Confidence In Elite Dancers, Carissa Bethel

Applied Sport & Performance Psychology | Literature Reviews

In athletics and the performing arts, athletes and performers are expected to maintain a healthy, strong, and athletic physique. Specific professions foster a thin body image amongst athletes, which are expected to be maintained. Pressure to maintain low weight or an athletic body has been considered a risk factor for developing body image dissatisfaction (Nascimento, Luna, Fontenelle, 2012). Previous research has shown that from a health perspective body satisfaction is one of the crucial factors in the prevention of unhealthy, weight related behaviors, especially in female athletes (Kantanista et al., 2018). The research addresses body image concerns in elite performance …

Ua19/16/2 Track & Field Press Releases, Wku Athletic Media Relations

WKU Administration Documents

Press releases and match statistics for WKU track & field team in 2024.

Ua19/16/2 Women's Basketball Press Releases, Wku Athletic Media Relations

WKU Administration Documents

Press releases and game statistics for WKU women's basketball team for 2024.

Paddlesport Safety Culture In Ireland: An Exploratory Study, John Pierce, Kevin O'Callaghan

Publications

Anecdotally, paddlesports (canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and rafting) are seen as safe sports, though prior to this report little evidence was available to support this view in an Irish context. This report provides a summary of a research project exploring safety practices in Irish paddlesports. It includes the aim, objectives, research methodology, findings, and recommendations. Discussions early in the research process about how to investigate safety practices in Irish paddlesports brought a number of objectives into focus. It was agreed to compile empirical evidence on current safety practices across Irish paddlesports and to determine what, if any, additional supports may …

A Study Of Multimodal Accessibility Equity And Spatio-Temporal Relationships Between Transit, Job Density And Modal Split, Seyedsoheil Sharifiasl

Planning Dissertations - Archive

In North American cities, the land use and transportation systems are associated with low-density, suburban-type urban development, where the built environment contributes to a mobility pattern that is extremely reliant on automobiles. Several studies in the past decades have documented noticeable and concerning patterns of unjust and unsustainable transportation in this context. As a result, for those population groups with limited access to private transportation, this form of urban structure is equivalent to limited access to opportunities, leading to various environmental and social problems. These problems exacerbate inequities in access to transportation, disproportionately affecting marginalized communities. From a sustainable development …

Outpatient Fall Prevention In Ambulatory Adults 65 Years Old And Over, Dorothy L. Osborne-White

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Projects - Archive

Background: In the United States (U.S.), falls are the leading cause of injury among adults 65 and over, resulting in 36 million falls yearly (Moreland et al., 2020). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, 2023), one in four older adults experiences a fall each year. Falls are the world's second most prominent cause of accidental deaths (World Health Organization [WHO], 2021). Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults (Moreland et al., 2020).

Methods: A quality improvement project that included a fall bundle was implemented in a primary clinic. A …

Understanding The Educator-Coach And Student-Athlete Relationship: A Descriptive-Interpretative Study, Thomas J. Saleh

College of Education Theses and Dissertations

A changing landscape in youth sports and educational institutions has resulted in a growing number of high school student-athletes being coached by adults who do not work in the schools they attend. This study provides a foundational understanding of the relationship between in-building coaches, hereafter referred to as educator-coaches, and their student-athletes. Using a generic descriptive-interpretive qualitative research (GDI-QR) approach, this study examines the unique relationship within schools and what benefits and challenges this model may provide for the mentors and mentees involved. Framed around the concepts of natural mentorship and social-emotional learning (SEL), this study highlights how the educator-coaches …

Exploring Collegiate Athletes' Experiences With Cliques, Cora G. Dodson

College of Graduate Studies: Theses & Dissertations

A significant body of literature examines team processes as they relate to the team as a collective unit (Eys et al., 2019). However, smaller units present within a team, such as cliques or subgroups, warrant further scientific exploration and dissemination (Wagstaff & Martin, 2018). Existent literature on cliques in an athletic setting established that intra-team groups are inevitable, while also highlighting their emergence and formation, and their relative consequences at the team level (Martin, 2020; Wagstaff & Martin, 2018). Despite the scientific advancement at the group level, research concerning cliques is scarce. Therefore, the purpose of this qualitative study was …

Identifying Youth Appeals In Alcohol Alternative Social Media Content Through Framing, Melina Oneal

West Chester University Master’s Theses

Proposed regulations for alcohol advertising prevent beverage companies from targeting people under the legal drinking age. However, similar regulations for alcohol alternative beverages are less explored, which could allow alcohol alternative products to create awareness for alcoholic beverages among youth. Alcohol alternatives beverages, including no-alcohol and low-alcohol products, are increasing in popularity and can function as compliments to alcoholic products to decrease the total alcohol volume consumed or as substitutes for alcoholic products. Framing theory can be operationalized through the Content Appealing to Youth Index, an index of content elements found in research literature to be appealing to youth, to …

An Endangered Sport: Examining Sentiments Of Climate Anxiety Through The Perspectives Of Cross Country Skiers, Isabel J. Seay

Honors Theses

Since its emergence in the late nineteenth century, cross country skiing in the United States has grown in popularity and is a recreational and competitive outlet for millions of participants today. Given its dependence on snow, however, the sport is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, which have already taken place in the form of shortened seasons, canceled races, and an increased reliance on artificial snow making facilities. Recent research has begun to look at the psychological impacts of climate change, and this research assesses levels of climate anxiety among a nationwide sample of cross country skiers. 129 …

Intrinsic Motivators For Participation And Persistence In Intercollegiate Athletics, Kevin Saal

Murray State Theses and Dissertations

Abstract

Since its inception, intercollegiate athletics’ conflicting existence vacillates between a history of rich, co-curricular and developmental experiences for young people, and a multi-billion-dollar industry transformed by limitless commercialization, expense and exploitation. The “professionalization” of intercollegiate athletics and blurring of motivational factors influencing participation and persistence threatens its holistic academic and developmental purpose (Duderstadt, 2000, p. 78). This dissertation provides a review of motivational theories, in addition to summarizing numerous contextually relevant intrinsic and extrinsic regulators impacting human behavior. Through a quantitative research methodology this study proposes research broadly investigating intrinsic motivation, seeking to develop a better understanding and establish …

Effects Of The Homegrown Player Rule In The English Premier League: A Comprehensive Analysis Of Squad Composition, Market Values, And Wages, Jiho "Brian" Jun

Pitzer Senior Theses

This paper uses theoretical frameworks from economics and sports management to investigate the transformative effects of the Homegrown Player Rule on English Premier League squad dynamics, market valuations, and wage structures. The study examines the evolution of homegrown player distribution across clubs from the rule’s implementation in 2010 to the most recent season in 2023. My analysis of market values and wages finds no evidence that the rule leads to possible market value and wage rate disparities between homegrown and non-homegrown players. Subsequent research shows evidence of a decrease in the real wage rate of homegrown players over time, contrasting …

Swimming: A Great Decision And An Even Better Journey, Eva M. Hunnius

Emerging Writers

Swimming is loved, feared, and cherished by so many around the world. People love it because it gives them a sense of freedom and peace, while also receiving a great workout. Some may fear it because they do not know how to swim, or they feel like there are many dangers and risks to swimming. Others cherish it because it is the only sport they have ever known. In my case, swimming is one of the only things that has been with me since I was a little kid. This remains true for many athletes. In this discussion, I hope …

Exploring The Potential Of Utilizing Esports In The Development Of Workforce Communication And Collaboration Skills, Anthony Gray, James Bartlett

Educational Leadership & Workforce Development Faculty Publications

This study explores the potential of esports in workforce development, specifically for enhancing the communication and collaboration skills of Generation Z. As Generation Z enters the job market, a gap in necessary communication and collaboration skills has become evident. Esports, previously studied for its social skill development benefits (Nielson & Hanghoj, 2019), offers a unique platform for skill enhancement. Adopting a social constructivist framework (Shabani et al., 2010), this research investigates how esports participation can bridge this skill gap, crucial for career retention and progression. Through a mixed-method approach involving surveys and player evaluations, the study aims to assess skill …

Fat-Free Mass Is Positively Associated With Urine Specific Gravity In Athletes And Active Adults: A Quantitative Review, Patrick B. Wilson, Ian P. Winter

Exercise Science Faculty Publications

Background: Urine specific gravity (USG) is a commonly used assessment method to estimate the prevalence of hypohydration, typically based on a common threshold of ≥ 1.020. Some research has shown that USG can vary based on body size and composition, but the evidence to date is limited. This review examined whether an association between fat-free mass (FFM), a component of body composition, and USG could be detected among published articles that have reported these variables in athletes and physically active individuals.

Methods: By searching Google Scholar, the authors identified a large number of published articles (n = 161) reporting anthropometrics …

The Psychosocial Aspects Of Rest, Morgan Findley

Theses and Dissertations--Kinesiology and Health Promotion

Past research in sport sciences has focused primarily on “rest” from a physical perspective, while giving limited focus to the psychosocial perspective (Eccles & Riley, 2014; Eccles et al., 2022). One major development on psychosocial rest emerged with the pioneering model introduced by Eccles and Kazmier (2019); however, further research is needed to test this proposed model with other sport/performance populations. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the model's generalizability and investigate the perceived frequency of psychosocial rest by athletes throughout their season. To accomplish this, 67 female university athletes completed an online survey comprised of questions representative of the …

An Investigation Of Body Image And Eating Behaviors In Former Ncaa Heptathletes, Claire Bailey

Theses and Dissertations--Kinesiology and Health Promotion

Research consistently supports associations between body image dissatisfaction and disordered eating pathologies in collegiate athletes (e.g., Reel & Voelker, 2012; Sundgot-Borgen, 1994). More specifically, female NCAA athletes report feeling torn between peak performance body composition and body fat levels fitting ideal feminine standards (Beckner & Record, 2016; Carson et al., 2020). Examining track and field, most event groups hold a lean-promoting perspective. However, heptathletes warrant further investigation due to the multifaceted and contradictory nature of events. Specifically, heptathletes encounter complex pressures training for a wide range of physical demands, which can create confusion in expected body types (Heazlewood et al., …

Beyond The Game: Gamification, Sports Betting, And Fantasy Sports In Modern Sports, Kyler A. Ripley

Soaring: A Journal of Undergraduate Research

The gamification of fantasy sports and sports betting is real in our society today and has become incredibly useful, but policymakers need to create laws to protect consumers.

The Impact Of A Structured Exercise Program On The Pre-Established Exercise Goals For Individuals With Disabilities, Emily C. Batini

Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects

This study aimed to identify the efficacy of a structured exercise program emphasizing family involvement and self-determination theory in meeting pre-established fitness goals for adults with disabilities. To measure physical strength and endurance changes, the 6-minute walk test, the curl-up, and push-up tests were utilized. A single-subject changing-criterion design was used in this study over the course of six weeks. Results indicated a positive relationship between the intervention and increased physical strength and endurance, according to testing results. Few participants met the criterion for each phase. However, many did demonstrate an increase in the distance walked, push-ups, and curl-ups completed …

Developmental Pathways From Player To Coach For Volunteers In An American Football Organization In Germany, Gary Cramer

Dissertations

The leadership style of organizational leaders is a key factor affecting volunteer coach recruitment and retention; yet the examination of developmental pathways from player to coach is lacking in the literature, especially as viewed from the perspective of those who are followers. The study addressed the following research question: How do volunteer coaches in an American football organization in Germany, who once played for the same head coach in the organization they currently coach, describe their pathway of development from player to coach? The purpose of this phenomenological case study was to inductively investigate the developmental pathways of volunteer sport …

Lecture-Based Instruction On Salary Negotiation For Professional Athletic Training Students: An Educational Technique, Julie M. Cavallario, Thomas R. Campbell, Cailee E. Welch Bacon

Rehabilitation Sciences Faculty Publications

Context

Low salary is a frequently cited reason for attrition from the athletic training profession. Researchers have determined that athletic trainers (ATs) entering the first hiring process, usually newly credentialed graduates of professional athletic training programs (ATPs), are the least likely to negotiate, resulting in lowered earning potential across their careers. It is necessary to instruct athletic training students on the importance of salary negotiation before the completion of their professional preparation.

Objective

Describe a lecture-based approach to include salary negotiation content into ATPs.

Background

Employing constructivist learning theory, didactic lecture content with applicable strategies for salary negotiation is sufficient …

Models Of Video Feedback For Youth Athletes Performing An American Football Tackle, Eric Schussler, Richard J. Jagacinski, Ajit Chaudhari, John A. Buford, James A. Onate

Rehabilitation Sciences Faculty Publications

Context: Video feedback is an expeditious method for improving athlete safety when performing activities with an inherent risk of injury. Providing appropriate and validated feedback during tackling training in American football may be a mechanism for athletes to learn safe tackling performance.

Objective: To determine the effect of video feedback in the instruction of tackling form.

Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Setting: Laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants: A total of 32 youth football athletes (28 boys, 4 girls; age ¼ 11.8 6 0.8 years) participated in 1 day of training. Of those, 14 participants completed 2 additional days of training and …

Perceptions And Use Of The Athletic Training Milestones In Education: A Report From The Aate Research Network, Cailee Welch Bacon, Barton Anderson, Julie Cavallario, Bonnie Van Lunen, Lindsey Eberman

Rehabilitation Sciences Faculty Publications

The Athletic Training Milestones (AT Milestones) were developed as an evaluation tool to capture the breadth and depth of athletic training knowledge, skills, and behavior. However, it is unclear whether athletic training programs are implementing this tool or how they are implementing it to gauge the athletic training clinical progression of students or residents. We aimed to explore the perceptions and use of the AT Milestones among educators in athletic training programs. We used a cross-sectional, web-based survey with open-ended questions to collect data from athletic training programs on if and how they implement the AT Milestones at a programmatic …

Muslim Collegiate Student-Athletes' Experience With Fasting During Ramadan While Participating In Sport, Mishaal Amjad, Julie M. Cavallario, Nicolette A. Harris, Cailee E. Welch Bacon

Rehabilitation Sciences Faculty Publications

Context: As colleges and universities continue to focus on creating diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments, it is important to gain more knowledge on the experiences that Muslim student-athletes have while fasting during the month of Ramadan. While previous researchers have investigated the physical effects of fasting on the body, little is known about the challenges or support Muslim student athletes experience while fasting and participating in sport during Ramadan.

Objective: To explore the experiences of Muslim collegiate student-athletes regarding fasting during Ramadan while participating in sports.

Design: Consensual qualitative research.

Setting: Individual video interviews.

Participants: 12 Muslim collegiate student-athletes (4 …

Female Athletes Explicitly Gesture In Emotional Situations, Y. Adams, M. Augenstein, P. Furley, A. Krieg, P. Born, I. Helmich

Exercise and Sport Studies: Faculty Publications

Introduction: Both appraisal emotion approaches and self-regulation theory emphasize that appraising an event as conducive or detrimental to one’s current goals may trigger an affective response that can be observed nonverbally. Because there may be a female advantage in the inhibition and self-regulation of emotions, we hypothesized that female but not male athletes regulate emotions during sports through explicit nonverbal behaviors. Methods: All nonverbal hand movement behavior of right-handed female and male tennis athletes was recorded during competitive matches. All immediate nonverbal expressions after point losses and wins were coded by two independent blind raters applying the NEUROpsychological GESture (NEUROGES®) …

Creating A Social Media Presence In Columbus State Women's Basketball Program, Kaihla Carter

Theses and Dissertations

This professional project will explore increased social media growth within the Columbus State University Women's Basketball team. It will present a sweeping writing audit focusing on the encounters and perspectives of the Columbus State Women's Basketball program regarding social media and the advancing opportunities for female student-athletes. It will dive into the framework to understand how women's basketball social media platforms impact the subjects, stories, and conversations encompassing the game, ultimately molding the public insight and plan. We get into the impact of a solid virtual social media presence, effective online entertainment strategies, the variety inborn in the women's basketball …

Student-Athlete Mental Health: University Of Montana Case Study, Abigail M. Sherwood

Undergraduate Theses, Professional Papers, and Capstone Artifacts

Research suggests that Division I college-student athletes experience higher levels of stress and other behavioral health issues than their non-athlete counterparts, with up to 20% of them suffering from depression (Sudano et al., 2017). Two studies on student athletes’ well-being conducted in 2020, reported that athletes continue to report higher levels of mental health concerns (Johnson, 2022). Since the fall of 2020, rates of mental exhaustion, depression, and anxiety have improved minimally with rates remaining 1.5 to two times higher than reported before the COVID-19 pandemic (Johnson, 2022). Naomi Osaka withdrawing from the French Open in 2021 and Simone Biles …

Exploring Usability In Exercise Interventions: From Conceptualization To Measurement And Application, Anne Inger Mørtvedt

Dissertations, Master's Theses and Master's Reports

Exercise interventions hold promise for preventing and treating numerous conditions, diseases, and injuries. However, these interventions will only be effective if they are being used. Unfortunately, uptake and adherence to prescribed exercise and physical activity guidelines are insufficient. Some reasons for this include lack of knowledge, resources, flexibility, and enjoyment. Exercise program developers need to not only consider the effectiveness of the program during the development phase, but also involve end-users and receive feedback on program usability to determine likelihood of uptake and adoption. Usability testing can be used to detect barriers to use and implementation likelihood but has not …

The Collegiate Tennis Effect: Measuring The Impact Of College Attendance On A Tennis Player’S Professional Career, Ian Freer

CMC Senior Theses

Our study examines the influence of college attendance on the professional tennis careers of the 502 American male players who earned a ranking point between 2014 and 2023. Initial analysis suggests that attending college may lower a player’s career-high ranking by 159 spots. However, after controlling for career length, we observe a significant improvement of 214 spots among players with similar junior rankings. Our analysis of career trajectories reveals that college players often start their professional careers at higher rankings and achieve their career-high rankings earlier than non-college players. Additionally, the career-high rankings of the most promising juniors tend to …

Nfl Positional Value In Terms Of Salary Cap Spending: Why Are Running Backs Undervalued?, Charlton Jackson

CMC Senior Theses

Running Backs over the past two decades have seen a contract value devaluation relative to other positions and the league's salary cap spending limit. The growth of running back salaries has stagnated in the past decade, and they currently fail to keep pace with the contracts for other positions. Through our empirical research, we were able to either reject or better explain existing reasoning for recent running back devaluation, such as the increase in passing volume, durability concerns, and running backs by committee. We found that the most significant change in the past 30 years of the NFL, since the …