| This qualitative study investigated the physical and psychological process of becoming a professional track and field athlete. Charmaz's (2006) grounded theory methodology was utilized. Participants were eight current and former professional track and field athletes, who have attained a top 10 ranking at some point in their career. Data analysis included line by line coding, followed by focus coding, and in the later stages extracting and developing theoretical codes. Results revealed 22 focus codes and five theoretical codes that led to the development of the theory that track and field athletes require a talent supportive environment, so that over time, with specific motivation, they can receive specialized training, and develop a committed mindset necessary to achieve professional status. Practical implications of the findings and recommendations for future research are presented. |
