The dual career of athletes represents a multidimensional approach in which athletes simultaneously develop their sports career and engage in education or work. Concept reflects the individual's pursuit of diversity and balance in life, with the aim of ensuring stability and preparing for life after the end of a sports career. For high school student athletes, a dual career presents a complex challenge, which, in addition to all the adolescent problems faced by young athletes, requires coordination between intensive sports activities and school education. High school student athletes face various challenges and problems, with support and collaboration from various social support providers being crucial for the successful dual careers.
The purpose of the master's work was to identify challenges and obstacles in the coordination of sport and education, as well as the role of social supporters for the successful realization of a dual career of young athletes. In the first part, we presented the theoretical background of the dual career of young athletes, and focused on the role and importance of social support providers in its successful implementation. In the second part, we searched the characteristics of dual careers through interviews with young high school student athletes and social support providers. In the research, we included 10 athletes aged 15 to 19 who attend one of the Slovenian high schools and 5 social supporters who have experience with athletes with a dual career. The research results have shown the most common challenges and difficulties in balancing the dual careers of high school student athletes. The study provided insight into the measures that already exist to support high school student athletes in Slovenia and the differences between the high schools attended by student athletes. We found that young athletes face challenges in balancing their academic and athletic obligations, with a lack of time and overlapping schedules being crucial factors. Additionally, we found that a significant part of the dual career concept is social support, with parents and family being identified as the most important supporters. Assistance and support for young athletes are provided in the form of financial, logistical, and emotional support. Emotional support, which contributes to well-being, positive emotions, and perseverance in both areas, was particularly highlighted for the successful progression of a dual career and guidance and understanding in key situations. However, adequate and effective support depends mainly on the integration of social support providers and holistic treatment of young high school student athletes.
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