COMING IN FIRST, FINISHING LAST

The student-athlete is arguably the most recognized and awarded student within any high school across the country. Millions of high school students participate in some form of athletic co-curricular activity, dedicating countless hours to the perfection of their skills. Research study after research study has proven the benefits of athletic participation on numerous variables. However, the research on the effects of athletic participation on African-American males in relationship to school achievement has been inconsistent. The coach-athlete relationship dyad has been researched extensively, and much of the research has revealed that this dynamic relationship has not only helped to enhance athletic performance, but other important social- developmental variables as well. Many athletes have described this relationship as one of the most meaningful and influential adult relationships in their lives.