Breaking Out of the Bubble

: The Development of Research and Practice as a Trainee Sport, Exercise and Performance Psychologist

Abstract

Scholars have emphasised the critical role of dual career environments, particularly within educational settings, in the development of athletes. However, there is a scarcity of longitudinal research exploring the lived experiences of student-athletes and the staff that support them. To address this gap, and with the goal of enhancing the support structures available to student-athletes, we present in this paper a single-case design, framed within an appreciative inquiry approach. This appreciative inquiry explores and seeks to strengthen the support mechanisms for student-athletes at an academic institution specialising in the support of high-performing student-athletes in the United Kingdom. The project was segmented into two distinct phases across the academic year: The Appreciative Inquiry Summit, and Implementation and Evaluation. During the project, several areas of strength in student-athlete support were identified, notably the strong relationships between athletes, coaching staff, and support personnel, as well as the high level of expertise present within both coaching and support teams. To further capitalise on these strengths, opportunities were recognised in enhancing structured collaboration, optimising the sharing of expertise and resources across the organisation, refining digital communication practices, empowering athlete agency, and valuing equity. By providing clear insights and actionable strategies in these areas, the findings equip staff with the knowledge and tools needed to work more effectively, make informed decisions, and respond proactively to student-athlete needs.
Moreover, we hope that sharing these experiences encourages practitioners in comparable settings to reflect on the applied implications provided.

Keywords: Applied Sport Psychology, Dual Career, Organisational Sport Psychology, Strengths-based Approach

Date of Award	1 Jul 2026
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Portsmouth
Supervisor	Daniel Brown (Supervisor), Chris Wagstaff (Supervisor) & David Price (Supervisor)