Women of color collegiate head coaches experiences of mistreatment and its effects: a qualitative analysis

The WOC HCs experienced myriad mistreatments that affected their psychological and physical well-being and their ability to consistently show up and perform well as a coach; both effects cheat their players, teams, families, and institution. Although the NCAA is taking strides to improve inclusivity, more is needed (e.g., cultural competence/humility trainings, regular evaluations) to create an environment of equity and inclusion for WOC coaches that promotes thriving as opposed to just surviving.</p> <p>Women of color (WOC) represent only 6.8% of head coaches (HCs) at the Division I collegiate level (NCAA, <a target="_blank" href="#CIT0043">2025</a>); such underrepresentation may be due to racist and sexist systems.

Interviews with 14 WOC HCs identified various forms of gendered racism experienced, and the effects these mistreatments had on their well-being and relationships.</p> <p></p><p>Improve trainings – Athletic departments must increase awareness of cultural competence, humility, and biases of all individuals within the department, including student-athletes.</p><p>Accountability – Athletic departments must establish clear accountability structures to ensure consistent implementation of policies regarding the support of WOC HCs.</p><p>Mental health resources – Cultivate community- or group-based support that provide WOC with supportive and empowering networks.</p><p>Hiring practices – The NCAA should encourage athletic conferences to implement a policy similar to NFL’s Rooney Rule to improve representation of WOC HCs.</p><p></p> <p>Improve trainings – Athletic departments must increase awareness of cultural competence, humility, and biases of all individuals within the department, including student-athletes.</p> <p>Accountability – Athletic departments must establish clear accountability structures to ensure consistent implementation of policies regarding the support of WOC HCs.</p> <p>Mental health resources – Cultivate community- or group-based support that provide WOC with supportive and empowering networks.</p> <p>Hiring practices – The NCAA should encourage athletic conferences to implement a policy similar to NFL’s Rooney Rule to improve representation of WOC HCs.</p>