The Transition from High School Girls Basketball to Division One ACC Women’s Basketball at Virginia Tech

This research study evaluated the strategies and resources available to support female basketball players as they transition from high school to college at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). This study highlights the importance of fulfilling these resources that are needed to ensure the success and smooth transition for the student-athletes. Interviews were conducted and data was analyzed to provide recommendations. Specifically, six interviews were conducted with freshmen, sophomore, junior, and senior student-athletes on the Virginia Tech women’s basketball team. Interview questions focused on the challenges that they faced when they transitioned from high school to college, the expectations they had when they arrived and how those may have differed, and the resources they have used to assist them with the transition. With this analysis, those who are in leadership positions can improve their programming efforts and ensure they are built around helping female student-athletes and supporting their specific needs. It was found that many of the interviewees had similar responses to the questions asked. The themes that were found within the interviews were building relationships within the program, being welcomed in - the importance of the culture, time management, stress management and advice they would offer based on their experiences. The study showed that with support and sufficient resources, the experience was more pleasant and was smoother for the student-athletes.