Date of Award
5-2026
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Department
Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management
Committee Chair/Advisor
Dr. Edmond P. Bowers
Committee Member
Dr. Janna Magette Butler
Committee Member
Dr. Barry Garst
Committee Member
Dr. Theresa Melton
Abstract
This study examines positive youth development (PYD) within youth sports governance, specifically USA Swimming's Local Swimming Committee (LSC) boards of directors, a context largely overlooked in PYD research, which typically focuses on on-field experiences.
Using the "Big Three" PYD framework (positive youth-adult relationships, life skill-building opportunities, and youth leadership and contribution), the study employed an explanatory mixed methods design. A quantitative survey was distributed to LSC athlete and non-athlete board members, followed by semi-structured interviews.
Survey data from 27 athletes and 157 non-athletes revealed strong levels of all "Big Three" components across both groups. Statistical analyses found no significant differences in "youth supportiveness" scores between LSCs of different sizes, nor between athlete and non-athlete respondents.
Interviews with athletes (n = 15) and non-athletes (n = 16) uncovered four key themes: respectful and collaborative LSC board environments where non-athletes and athletes are seen as equals allow for meaningful athletes participation, non-athletes intentionally invite athlete opinions and viewpoints that meaningfully influence LSC decisions, athletes gain numerous internal and external skills through LSC board participation, and athlete leadership opportunities are prioritized by LSC organization and non-athlete board members.
Together, the quantitative data showed strong levels of the “Big Three” across LSC boards, and the qualitative data supported those findings by demonstrating concrete practices and activities that LSC boards utilize to operationalize the “Big Three.” Furthermore, qualitative findings supported quantitative results by showing similar practices across all LSC boards that support the presence of the “Big Three.”
The results of this study provide support for considering youth sports boards of directors as a meaningful context for PYD outcomes to occur. The findings can be used not only by LSC boards to improve the ways they provide supportive environments for athletes for stronger PYD outcomes to occur, but they can also be expanded to other youth organizations, sport and non-sport, to provide additional ways in which young people can experience PYD outcomes.
Recommended Citation
Swett, Emily B., "Nonprofit Youth Sports Governance Structures as Contexts for Positive Youth Development: How USA Swimming's Local Swimming Committee Boards Provide the "Big Three" of Positive Youth Development Settings" (2026). All Dissertations. 4227.
https://open.clemson.edu/all_dissertations/4227