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DOI

https://doi.org/10.51221/sc.jiia.2026.19.1.18

Abstract

Athletic administrators hold positions of influence within intercollegiate sport, yet their experiences, especially in relation to sexual identity, remain underexamined. The purpose of this study was to explore the occupational experiences and environments of LGBQ+ intercollegiate athletic administrators using a narrative inquiry qualitative design. Sixteen administrators, who occupied various positions across all NCAA levels, were interviewed. Guided by Sexual Stigma and Prejudice Theory and Poststructuralism Theory, collected data were analyzed at the semantic and latent levels using reflexive thematic analysis. Two distinct themes were generated: LGBQ+ administrators described both positive and negative aspects of their workplaces. Inclusive environments were committed to uphold belonging initiatives. At the same time, participants described multiple intrapersonal, interpersonal, and systemic barriers that threatened their safety and inclusion within the workplace. Findings suggest that intercollegiate administrators can simultaneously be empowered and disempowered by both their workplaces and marginalized sexual identities.

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