Predictors of Division I Black Women Student-Athletes Academic Satisfaction

• In Event: Black and Latino Student Athletes

Abstract

There are nearly 25,000 Black women student-athletes who compete in intercollegiate athletics (NCAA, 2020). As Black women transition from high school to college, they must learn how to navigate a new academic, athletic, and social environment. Utilizing NCAA GOALS 2015 survey data, this quantitative study examined the relationship between identity and success on Black women student-athletes’ level of satisfaction with both their collegiate academic and athletic experience. The study sample consists of 395 Black women Division I student-athletes, representing 12 sports. Preliminary results indicate athletic identity, athletic satisfaction, and campus satisfaction all have a significantly positive impact on Black women student-athletes’ academic satisfaction. Findings have implications researchers, policymakers, and practitioners who serve Black women student-athletes.

Authors

• Miray Seward, University of Virginia

• Lydia F. Bell, National Collegiate Athletic Association

• Paul C. Harris, The Pennsylvania State University

• Joanna Williams, Rutgers University