Qualitative Interview Transcripts for "For I Know the Plans...": The Role of Faith in the Out of High School Transition of Male Soccer Athletes

Abstract

Across an athlete’s sporting career, transitions are inevitable. Within this field, both the out-of-high school transition and the role of religious faith during transitions are understudied. This study investigates the influence and role of religious faith during the transition out of high school. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six male soccer athletes from a single, private Christian institution followed by thematic analysis of the transcripts. Analysis revealed three main themes as to the role of religious faith: a higher purpose, never-ending support, and an identity beyond sport. Based on the current limited knowledge within this area and the content of the interviews, the need for further research regarding the role of religious faith during transitions is discussed.Across an athlete’s sporting career, transitions are inevitable. Within this field, both the out-of-high school transition and the role of religious faith during transitions are understudied. This study investigates the influence and role of religious faith during the transition out of high school. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six male soccer athletes from a single, private Christian institution followed by thematic analysis of the transcripts. Analysis revealed three main themes as to the role of religious faith: a higher purpose, never-ending support, and an identity beyond sport. Based on the current limited knowledge within this area and the content of the interviews, the need for further research regarding the role of religious faith during transitions is discussed.