- Volume 11, Number 2 (2023)
IN THE FACE OF CHANGE: DECISION-MAKING CHALLENGES FACED BY NCAA DIVISION II GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE SPRING SPORT STUDENT-ATHLETES IN THE COVID-19 ERA
Alexander M. Richards
The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on collegiate student-athletes, many of whom were scheduled to use their final season of competition and/or academic eligibility during the spring 2020 semester. This study investigated the decision-making process of these student-athletes regarding whether to return to play in the spring 2021 season. The researchers surveyed all 13 member schools of the NCAA Division II Gulf South Conference and found that 68% of student-athletes returned to play. The decision to return was influenced by factors such as gender, sport type, and 2020 graduation status
A JOURNEY OF TRANSFORMATION: THE KOTTER MODEL'S ROLE IN SHAPING A KINESIOLOGY DEPARTMENT INTO A SCHOOL
Jessica L. Thompson
This paper describes the transformation of the Kinesiology program at Tarleton State University from a single departmental unit to a school with two departments. The change initiative was led by Dr. Kayla Peak, an Associate Dean in the College of Education. The key factors that contributed to the success of the change initiative were: (1) strong leadership from Dr. Peak; (2) a clear vision for the future of the Kinesiology program; (3) effective communication with stakeholders; and (4) a commitment to continuous improvement