The Experience of Dual Career through Slovak Athletes’ Eyes

Description

The study investigates the experiences of Slovak athletes in managing a dual career that encompasses both high-performance sports and educational or work commitments. Through in-depth interviews with five athletes, the research employs Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to uncover how athletes perceive their educational responsibilities, the challenges they face, and the support systems that facilitate their dual pursuits. The findings reveal that athletes view dual careers as manageable when supported by flexible structures and social networks, particularly from peers. However, they also highlight significant obstacles, such as educators' prejudices and insufficient institutional support, which impede their success in balancing athletics and academics. The study underscores the need for tailored dual career support structures and a positive perception of athletes within educational institutions to enhance the dual career experience for Slovak athletes.