Document Type
Article
Keywords
gender, coaching, occupational wellbeing, turnover, sport
Publication Date
1-24-2025
Abstract
To address misconceptions about the lack of women in sport coaching, factors influencing intercollegiate women coaches' career decisions, including their choices to leave positions, apply for new ones, and accept or deny job offers were explored. Utilizing a multi-level analysis underpinned by critical feminist theory, a comprehensive understanding of the systemic and structural barriers women coaches faced, as well as the strategies they employed to navigate their careers were illuminated. Key findings revealed that unequal pay, lack of administrative support, insufficient resources, and pervasive gender biases significantly impacted women's career choices. The importance of supportive workplace environments, flexible working conditions, professional development opportunities, and organizational commitments to diversity and inclusion emerged as crucial for attracting and retaining women coaches. By gathering women coach’s perspectives (n = 118, NCAA Division I, II, and III), data refuted common ‘blame the women’ narratives and emphasized the need for systemic change within intercollegiate sports. This research contributed to the ongoing dialogue on gender equity and practical strategies for athletic departments to create more inclusive and supportive environments, thereby enhancing the recruitment and retention of women coaches are offered.
DOI
https://doi.org/10.18122/ijpah.4.2.2.boisestate
Recommended Citation
Boucher, Courtney and LaVoi, Nicole M.
(2025)
"What Women Intercollegiate Coaches Say: Decision-Making Factors When Navigating Career Choices,"
International Journal of Physical Activity and Health: Vol. 4:
Iss.
2, Article 2.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.18122/ijpah.4.2.2.boisestate
Available at:
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/ijpah/vol4/iss2/2
Included in
Exercise Science Commons, Health and Physical Education Commons, Public Health Commons, Sports Studies Commons
