Journal of Physical Education and Sports Management

Factors Impacting the Decision to Return for NCAA Division II Gulf South Conference Spring Sport Student-Athletes Impacted by COVID-19 in 2020
Gary R. Johnson, Linn M. Stranak, Matthew J. Brunet

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify which factors were most influential in determining whether an NCAA Division II Gulf South Conferencespring sport student-athlete would return for an additional year of competition after spring sports were cancelled by the NCAA in spring 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Thirteen participating schools identified 305 student-athletes that were scheduled to use their final season of competition and/or academic eligibility during the spring 2020 season. Institutions reported 151 returning student-athletes for 2020-2021 and provided demographic information related to gender, sport type, and 2020 graduation status. Data was analyzed and 2020 graduation status was a significant predictor of a student-athlete returning for an additional year of competition in 2020-2021. Gender and sport type were not significant predictors for student-athletes returning for an additional season of competition. Researchers also looked at academic status and retention rate data for the 151 returning student-athletes.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jpesm.v8n2a2