Background/Purpose This research study was designed to gain a deeper understanding of the perceptions elite athletes now of the strengths philosophy as it relates to their athletic experience. A qualitative study used a phenomenological approach and provided opportunity for 17 elite female softball players to take the Clifton's StrengthsFinder inventory and share their thoughts and reactions. The participants were recognized as the “best of the best” in the sport; they included Olympic gold medalists, professional players in the National Pro Fastpitch League, or a NCAA Division I All American.
Method The study was conducted as a qualitative semi-structured interview and the participants were administered the Clifton StrengthsFinder inventory. StrengthsFinder is a thirty-minute quantitative Web-based assessment that measures the presence of thirty-four themes of talent.
Analysis/Results The results produced four significant findings: a) each athlete was unique; b) elite athletes communicated that both achieving and relational strengths were beneficial; c) strengths were used to overcome obstacles; and d) elite athletes had a base strength.
Conclusions This study has several practical implications for both coaches and athletes who desire to capitalize on their natural talents and develop a strengths-based philosophy. The findings in this study provided a deeper understanding of the perceptions of elite athletes on the strengths perspective, and they contribute to the existing resources for those who are interested in working with the student-athlete population. Specifically, it provides tangible activities and ideas, which can be used to affirm, encourage, and support the student-athlete population by giving them a strengths perspective.