Access to this item has been restricted.

How Do We Win? Factors and Definitions of Success in Division III Athletics at a Competitive, Liberal Arts College

@masterthesis{McClanahan2020, author = "McClanahan, Annie", title = {{How Do We Win? Factors and Definitions of Success in Division III Athletics at a Competitive, Liberal Arts College}}, type = {Bachelor's Thesis}, howpublished = "\url{https://ir.hamilton.edu/do/45c48948-a87d-4d82-818e-4f7601bb500d}", institution = {Hamilton College}, year = 2020, month = may, school = {Sociology}, }
BibTeX
@masterthesis{McClanahan2020,
       author = "McClanahan, Annie",
       title =  {{How Do We Win? Factors and Definitions of Success in Division III Athletics at a Competitive, Liberal Arts College}},	
       type = {Bachelor's Thesis},

       howpublished = "\url{https://ir.hamilton.edu/do/45c48948-a87d-4d82-818e-4f7601bb500d}",
       institution = {Hamilton College},
       year = 2020,
       month = may,
       school = {Sociology},
}
Copy BibTeX Copy BibTex
Creator
  • McClanahan, Annie
    Role:
    Author
    Institution:
    Hamilton College
    Affiliation:
    Student
    Class Year:
    2020
Date

May 2020

Description

Building on group performance research and the sociology of sport, in this study I compare how two varsity basketball teams competing at the DIII level at Hamilton College strive to succeed together. In examining how small groups work together and manage themselves, I contribute to understandings of how group dynamics and cultures affect collegiate athletic "success.” Many things affect athletic teams: coaching, membership changes, resources, and talent. Through interviews with coaches and players, ethnographic observation, and statistical data from both teams’ upcoming season, I show what really matters to be a winning team. Results suggest that success is interpreted by teams relative to their prior achievements, both good and bad. To achieve important goals, team leadership must consider the lifestyle and priorities of players. Lastly, while winning is not essential to team cohesion, it can serve as a mechanism to improve group bonding and respect.

Type of Work
Institution

Hamilton College

Area of Study
Degree

Bachelor of Arts

Part of Collection

Senior Theses

Rights Statement

The copyright for this work is held by its creators and Hamilton College. More information

Back to top