A 06 Collegiate Student Athlete Experiences with COVID 19 and Attitudes About Returning to Sport
Abstract Objective When COVID 19 was declared a global pandemic, collegiate athletic departments faced the difficult decision to postpone or cancel sport activities. Aside from concerns of virus transmission, disruptions in sport impacted student athletes broadly. This study aimed to investigate athletes' experiences during the pandemic toward developing a better understanding of athletes' attitudes about the virus and returning to sport. Methods Participants included 245 varsity student athletes across NCAA sports and divisions who voluntarily completed an online survey between August and October 2020. Results A positive COVID 19 result during the pandemic was reported by 1 in 4 athletes. Mental health, cancelled seasons, and academic progress were rated the top three COVID related concerns. Declines in physical fitness were reported by 50% of participants and change in weight was reported by 45% While agreement that their athletic department was taking COVID 19 seriously was endorsed by 78% of athletes, 26% believed the proposed safety procedures lacked feasibility. Concern about speaking up if the procedures were not followed was endorsed by 79% of athletes. Of the participants, 88% agreed that they have a social responsibility to prevent the spread of COVID 19. Only 44% worried about being exposed to the virus during sport participation. Comfort returning to sport immediately was endorsed by 70% of student athletes. Just over half said they would get vaccinated if the vaccine became available. Conclusions Student athletes have been affected by the pandemic in several ways. It is evident that athletes are concerned about the pandemic's impact on mental and physical health and are eager to return to sport.
Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology