Quantifying perceived stress and burnout of NCAA division I athletic department support staff members

Abstract

Employment in collegiate athletics often involves a fast-paced, high-pressure, stressful environment for employees that may lead to the development of burnout. This study examined the perceived stress and burnout of support staff members (e.g., athletic training, marketing). Surveys were delivered to 15,513 current support staff members via email in August 2024 and March 2025. A total of 314 (2.02%) completed both surveys (35.63 ± 9.77 years; 49.5% female). Participants reported moderate perceived stress (PSS) (T1: 15.97 ± 6.39; T2: 16.40 ± 6.74), personal burnout (PB) (T1: 48.98 ± 18.86; T2: 50.03 ± 18.93), work-related burnout (WR) (T1: 48.78 ± 17.39; T2: 50.52 ± 17.15), and low client-related burnout (CR) (T1: 31.99 ± 19.30; T2: 36.01 ± 20.78). PSS was positively correlated with all three subscales of burnout at both time points. WR and CR were significantly greater in March. PSS and burnout did not differ by institution type (Power Four, Mid-major) or football responsibilities. However, individuals consistently interacting with student athletes reported greater PB (p=0.031). Age and years of experience were both positively correlated with changes in PSS and WR between time points. This study provided insight into the stress and burnout of all athletic department support staff, with previous work focused on athletic trainers alone. Administrators can utilize this information to understand the current well-being of their employees. By providing early intervention through resources (e.g., employee assistance programs) and departmental changes (e.g., staffing, work hours), administrators can aim to decrease the risk of burnout and related consequences.