Make-It-Yours: Black Male Student-Athletes Recount Their Division II Experiences

Abstract

Black male student-athletes (BMSAs) at Historically White Institutions (HWIs) navigate theintersections of race, athletics, and higher education. While most research focuses on NCAA Division I, little examines their experiences at the Division II level. This qualitative study fills that gap by exploring how Division II BMSAs navigate academic, athletic, and social environments, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that shape their journeys. Grounded in Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Critical Race Methodology (CRM), this study amplifies BMSAs' voices to expose systemic inequities in collegiate athletics and higher education. Through semi-structured interviews with six participants, the findings are organized into four key themes: Rethinking Athletic Success, Division II as a Supportive Family, Sports Don’t Last Forever: Developing a Plan for Success and Navigating Hostile Territory at HWIs. Findings reveal that Division II BMSAs face limited resources, racial microaggressions, and underrepresentation among faculty and coaches. However, they persist through mentorship, peer support, and self-advocacy. Participants emphasized strategic academic and career planning, the supportive nature of Division II athletics, and the enduring impact of systemic racism. This study broadens the understanding of BMSAs' experiences at Division II HWIs, offering insights for policy, institutional practices, and future research to foster more equitable and supportive environments.