Abstract
M.Phil. (Sport Management)
This study is strengthened by several studies that have indicated that the dualist nature of
student-athletes is problematic, as well as the management thereof. The study aimed to
identify the sociological implications of the main aspects affecting the optimal sporting career
development in athletics (throwers) at University of Johannesburg Sport, and offers
recommendations for managing student-athletes. The methods utilized for this study
included: i) self-designed questionnaires which incorporated information such as biographical
data, performance level, satisfaction levels of support services and, ii) a qualitative case-study
on the University of Johannesburg athletics club, where interviews were held with
representatives selected as part of a purposive sample. Data was collected over a period of
one year, with 15 current athletes, 5 retired athletes, and service providers within the
University of Johannesburg. The research design allowed for input, throughput and output
analyses. To determine the rationale of the input and throughput phases, qualitative and
quantitative data were integrated for the identification of trends and major themes. Twelve of
the 20 student-athletes participated internationally during their tertiary student-athlete years,
whereas 14 out of the 20 student-athletes participated at regional level during their in primary
school years, demonstrating a relatively lengthy and intense socialisation process. The
qualitative research revealed that the main social agents during the primary and secondary
school years are the parents, teacher-coach and peers, where the attention swifts to
professional agents (including the coach) and fellow athletes during the tertiary phase. There
is an increasing need for scientific and academic support at tertiary level with major issues
around time, career and life style management. During the (often) final socialisation or
specialization phase, most student-athletes face multiple career challenges without receiving
adequate guidance or scientific support towards desocialisation.