“One of the Most Satisfying Parts of the Job”: The Perceived Mattering and Role Satisfaction of NCAA Faculty Athletic Representatives

The increase in research related to intercollegiate athletic coaching, athletes, and leadership continues to be of note within the sport management field. However, less is known about the position of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) despite their important role to serve as a liaison between the academic and athletic units on their campuses. Thus, the purpose of this study was to examine NCAA FARs perceived mattering, role satisfaction, relationship between the two variables, and the experiences and interactions that affected their perceptions of mattering. Three hundred and two NCAA FARs participated in the survey and results demonstrated that overall FARs perceived they mattered and had high satisfaction in their role. Open-ended responses expanded this sense of mattering by situating it within recognition for service, contributions to decision-making and communication with leadership, and aiding student-athlete success. However, when mattering was not felt, it was due to exclusion from leadership, lack of power, and a lack of compensation. Thus, practical and managerial implications are provided to ensure the role of the FAR is furthering the goals of both academic and athletic communities alike on their campuses.