Background/Purpose Social support has been shown to be an important aspect in athletes' sport experiences (Rees & Hardy 2000). This qualitative study describes the type of social support available to American professional volleyball players playing in Switzerland. Rees, Hardy and Freeman (2007) argued that research on social support and sport is lacking. Additional research is needed to address the unique experience of American athletes playing internationally.
Method Interviews were conducted in person with 14 American professional volleyball players, and lasted between 45 to 60 minutes. The interview questions were adapted from the social support interview guide used by Rees and Hardy (2000). Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) techniques, the results represent a combination of the athletes' reflections of their experience, and the researcher's interpretation of their comments (Hassell, Sabiston & Bloom, 2010).
Analysis/Results The results indicated that parents, family and friends provided emotional and esteem support via the internet. Fellow American teammates were also essential and provided emotional and esteem support. Local players from Switzerland provided minimal support related to cultural nuances. The athletes did not mention their coaches in regard to any type of social support.
Conclusions This research points to the need to help athletes learn how to maximize the social support available, and ask for assistance from club personnel when needed. The athletes may need to learn skills, such as improved communication skills to utilize social support. Cutrona and Russell (1990) stated it is important for individuals to learn to match their needs with the type of social support available.
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