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Abstract

Extensive research has shown that sport club participation enhances student development, but little research has examined how specific officer roles in sport clubs may shape the experience. The purpose of this case study was to explore how sport club presidents at a midsized, public, four year institution in the Mid-Atlantic region described their involvement in an on-campus leadership opportunity. Eleven sport club presidents participated in the study, and shared their experiences through reflective journaling, and 30-min semistructured interviews. The researchers conducted document analysis for further review of the sport club program and president experience. Findings suggest that participation in the presidential role within the campus recreation sport club program at this institution provides an impactful developmental experience for students by enhancing specific skills that prepare students for careers beyond college more candidly than classroom education. Recommendations for sport club professionals and students regarding the outcomes associated with this ongoing campus leadership opportunity are provided.

Keywords

sport clubs campus recreation student development involvement

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An Exploration of the Sport Club President's Experience

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