No regrets: Former collegiate student-athletes’ reflections on regret

Abstract

Although there is a plethora of research related to regret, research examining regret in sport is in its infancy. Learning from the regrets of others may help collegiate student-athletes minimize their own regrets. Answering the call to continue examining regret in sport, the current study qualitatively examined the regrets of former collegiate student-athletes. Consensual qualitative research (CQR), an exploratory constructivist approach, was used to examine athlete regrets and advice for future collegiate student-athletes. Fifteen former collegiate student-athletes from a variety of sports shared their experiences. During interviews, participants were asked two questions: (a) what regrets do you have from your time as a college student-athlete, and (b) what advice would you give a high schooler about to start their college athletic experience? Regrets were identified in relation to sport, school, and relationships. Similarly, advice was provided in the areas of sport, school, relationships, and enjoyment and appreciation. Results support previous work and offer new insights regarding regrets among former collegiate student-athletes. Lay summary: The current study qualitatively explored the regrets of former collegiate student-athletes. Based on their regrets, participants offered advice for current and future collegiate student-athletes. Learning from the regrets and advice of previous collegiate student-athletes might help current and future athletes minimize potential regrets in their own careers. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Practitioners may help current athletes learn from the experiences of previous athletes to minimize potential regrets. Practitioners can listen for language related to common regrets to help address those concerns early on before the regret becomes significant. Minimizing regret might help athletes ultimately enjoy and fully embrace the collegiate student-athlete experience.