Link to hear podcast:
http://www.majeskiathleticconsulting.com/2013/02/12/perspective-podcast-002-what-does-student-athlete-experience-really-mean/#!prettyPhoto
Many people consider the student-athlete experience to be the most
important element of their athletics program. However, many can’t
articulate what that experience is or does for student-athletes. Our
research has revealed several common characteristics that administrators
should be aware when thinking about their student-athlete experience.
What Student-Athletes Think They Need- “Stuff”
When asked, student-athletes will give a long laundry list of what
they need to be successful and have a great experience: facilities,
uniforms, gear, locker rooms, travel schedules to name just a few.
What Student-Athletes Want, Hope and Expect- “Emotional Connection and Support”
After filtering through the “stuff” you’ll reveal that
student-athletes have a strong need for their experience to validate
their commitment and their identity. They want coaches, faculty and
other students to understand their passion for sport and the importance
of athletics to their educational experience. This requires
acknowledgement and engagement.
What Student-Athletes Really Need- “Practical Support”
Student-athletes need advocates to represent their interests and
needs. Coaches, athletics administrators, faculty athletics
representatives and SAAC members all play key roles in supporting
student-athletes.
Your Action Plan
Establishing a culture of communication, trust and accountability is
essential to understanding and improving the student-athlete experience.
Administrators must understand the current climate, clarify what their
student-athlete experience should be and engage student-athletes in an
on-going process that annually assesses progress. Keys steps: ask
student-athletes; actively listen; acknowledge and respond.
