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Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the post-secondary professional preparation experiences of second-year university Recreational Sports Management professionals. Qualitative design in the case study tradition was used to collect data from multiple individuals. Individual interviews of the participants provided the data and detailed descriptions of each case. Coding methods were used to systematically analyze the interview transcripts and identify themes.
The findings of the study indicated that professionals in Recreational Sports Management experience a range of approaches to be prepared for their career. The participants consistently portrayed pathways existing between academic, practical and life experiences. Participants discovered Recreational Sport Management as a career through practical experiences and mentoring relationships indicating that this type of experience should be considered a necessary element of professional preparation. The involvement of the participants in the National Intramural Recreational Sports Association (NIRSA) led to comments about the enhancement of professional preparation through a professional organization.
