The Relative Effects of Gender, Race, and Sport on University Academic Performance

Abstract

This paper investigates the relative effects of gender, race, and type of sport (revenue vs. nonrevenue sport) on academic performance among university athletes. Using regression analyses, the study demonstrates that race is the strongest predictor of university academic performance. Gender, race, and type of sport also influence intervening variables such as secondary school academic achievement, financial assistance, and intensity of involvement in athletics at the university. The implications for academic and athletic programs are discussed.