The In-Depth Look at the Reasons Elite Volleyball Student-Athletes Choose NCAA Division III

At the young age of seventeen to eighteen years old, students are asked to make one of the most important decisions of their lives: which college or university will they attend to further their education? There are several factors and elements that lead to their college choice. This study focuses on NCAA Division III volleyball student-athletes. Thirteen elite volleyball student-athletes participated in this study to identify the main reasons why they chose their specific institution and volleyball program. The results correlate directly to the philosophy of the NCAA and Division III athletics in placing a large concentration on academics. Student-athletes looked for a school with their desired major and a strong academic reputation. Other themes found in this study stemmed from athletics such as coach philosophy, winning tradition, playing time, and team atmosphere. Overall, this research study provides insight for prospective student-athletes who may have limited knowledge on Division III athletics. This research will also help coaches, administrators, and recruiters in understanding what it is that elite student-athletes look for in an institution