Perceptions and Perspectives of Black Male Athletic Directors at National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Institutions

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship among self- identified Black male National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) athletic directors (ADs) and their lived experiences of career attainment through the lens of Critical Race Theory (CRT). This research examined both the factors impacting the ADs’ careers and the strategies they used to overcome barriers. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with - at the time of the study - all of the FBS Black male ADs (N=12) regarding their perspectives of their lived AD experiences. The findings revealed three overarching dimensions (i.e., allyship, nepotism, and networking with other minority leaders) and seven emergent themes associated with success factors (i.e., diverse network, lack of privilege, mentorship, and cultural differences) and barrier removal strategies (i.e., intrinsic motivation, gathering extensive experience, and being intentional about networking). This study advances the sport management field and CRT research by revealing insights regarding Black ADs’ perceptions, challenges, opportunities, and strategies.