Effects of Student Athletics on Academic Performance

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of involvement in athletics at the collegiate level at South Dakota State University. This paper seeks to determine if participation in collegiate athletics is beneficial to a person or if its disadvantages outweigh the advantages. Sixty-seven student-athletes completed a survey during October of 2013 to determine the effects that athletic involvement has had on SDSU’s campus. This study found that participation in athletics is extremely beneficial. These athletes performed better in the classroom, developed impressive time management skills, felt motivated to complete their degree, were motivated to attend classes, and experienced a smoother transition into the college lifestyle