Challenges and expectations of emerging student-athletes among catholic institutions: a qualitative study

Title

Challenges and expectations of emerging student-athletes among catholic institutions: a qualitative study

Creator

Prakasha, G.S.; Joseph, Soumya

Description

Catholic institutions in India are known for providing holistic education focusing all round development of the children. However, there are contextual dilemmas in practicing the holistic approach while meeting the gospel values amidst diversity. The study aims to understand the various challenges student-athletes face in Catholic institutions while pursuing their sporting aspirations. It includes support systems, infrastructural facilities, mental well-being, career aspirations, and policy requirements. Through semi-structured interviews, study explored the challenges and expectation of emerging student-athletes in Catholic institutions across India. Ten lead student-athletes from diverse sports categories were selected for an in-depth interview through snowball sampling technique. The narrative analysis revealed that, athletes are not satisfied with the institutional support. Furthermore, academic demands and time constraints are affecting their mental health. They frequently fall sick, face physical injuries, and lag in academic work. They are feeling unattended by their institution and are looking forward for institutional support in sport related expenses and academics. The study found that, encouragement and emotional support from family, teachers, and coaches would help them lead a healthy and purposeful life. The study recommends stakeholders to help emerging student-athletes find support for their financial, emotional, and professional goals. Future research may take an account of sports-education practices among Catholic institutions in India. 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.

Source

International Studies in Catholic Education;

Date

01-01-2025

Publisher

Routledge

Subject

Catholic institutions; champion-athlete; sport finance; sport-facility; sports care

Coverage

Prakasha G.S., School of Education, Department of Physical Education, Christ University, Bangalore, India; Joseph S., School of Education, Department of Physical Education, Christ University, Bangalore, India

Rights

Restricted Access; Hardcopy may be available in the library

Relation

ISSN: 19422539;

Format

online

Language

English

Type

Article

Identifier

https://doi.org/10.1080/19422539.2025.2468457

https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/86000350765?origin=resultslist