Date of Award

8-2025

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Education and Human Development

First Advisor

Colin Cork, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

James Lewis, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Dana Munk, Ph.D.

Keywords

Burnout, female athletes, travel sport, volleyball, youth sport

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to investigate the lived experiences of female athletes participating in national-level club volleyball in a Midwestern U.S. state. Amid increasing sport privatization and a growing emphasis on early sport specialization, female athletes in club volleyball are navigating complex pressures tied to elite competition, college recruitment, and psychosocial well-being. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), this study sought to uncover how athletes experience and make meaning of their participation in this highly demanding sport structure.

Data collection included a demographic survey distributed to national-level athletes (n = 66) and in-depth, semistructured interviews with five female athletes aged 14–18. Survey results provided insight into athlete backgrounds, specialization levels, family demographics, and perceived burnout. Over half of surveyed athletes were classified as highly specialized, and more than 70% reported current or past feelings of burnout. The interviews, analyzed through the six-step IPA process (Smith et al., 2009), revealed six superordinate themes: negative impacts of participation, benefits of participation, burnout, specialization, athlete motivation, and suggestions for systemic change within travel volleyball.

Findings showed that while athletes value high-level competition and skill development, many endure emotional exhaustion, significant social sacrifices, and concerning mental health challenges. A recurring theme was the athletes’ desire for greater autonomy and balance, as their schedules are often dominated by training, travel, and competition. Participants also expressed concern over the rigid structure of club volleyball and emphasized the need for coach education and more athlete-centered programming. The results contribute to a growing body of literature suggesting that early specialization may not only fail to improve scholarship outcomes but may also compromise long-term athlete well-being.

This study offers practical implications for coaches, parents, and club volleyball organizers. By elevating athlete voices, it encourages a reexamination of the structural and cultural dynamics of youth travel volleyball and proposes a shift toward more developmentally appropriate, health-conscious sport environments.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Open Access

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