A Longitudinal Investigation of Competitive Athletes' Return to Sport Following Serious Injury

Returning to sport following a serious injury can be a difficult process for competitive athletes (Bianco, 2001; Bianco, Malo, & Orlick, 1999; Gould, Udry, Bridges, & Beck, 1997). Unfortunately, no qualitative longitudinal studies were found that examine athlete return-to-sport experiences following injury recovery. The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of competitive athletes' returning to sport following a serious injury over a period of up to 8-months. Salient themes relating to motives to return to sport, return-to-sport appraisals and emotions and decision-making processes were identified in participant interviews. Athletes also described their experiences in overcoming return-to-sport fears and concerns, and how they dealt with adversity. Finally, the enjoyable aspects of the return to competition and the positive consequences of injury were articulated. Findings from this research indicate that self-determination theory (Ryan & Deci, 2000) may offer a valuable framework for coaches and practitioners hoping to better understand and assist athletes with the return-to-sport process.