| This study examined the career focus experiences and career concerns of Black football players. The sample for the study consisted of eight upperclassmen (sophomore, junior, senior, and graduate students) on the 1997-98 football squad at The Pennsylvania State University. The participants were identified through personal contacts and referrals. Each participant engaged in an in-depth interview.;An analysis of the interview transcripts answered the following research questions: (1) What are the perceptions of Black football players about their college and career focus? (2) What are the perceptions of Black football players regarding their career after college? Most of the participants began their career focus experience before they arrived to college. Many of the participants discussed the difficulty of managing athletics and academics. The participants in this study realized the importance of obtaining a career in their chosen field of study. All of the participants believe that they are prepared for a non-football career or graduate school after college. Some of the participants described how athletics helped prepare them for life after college. Reasons for this belief include physical and mental maturity, discipline, and improved time management. |
