Harnessing collegiate athlete talent for organizational sustainability and social impact

Purpose This study aims to examine the benefits, challenges and long-term organizational impact of hiring collegiate athletes. It highlights how their unique skills contribute to corporate social responsibility (CSR), innovation and sustainability. This study offers actionable insights for managers, practical integration strategies and a research agenda to guide future exploration in this emerging area. Design/methodology/approach This study used a systematic literature review to synthesize peer-reviewed research published between 1989 and 2025. Searches were conducted across major academic databases, including Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science and EBSCOhost, using Boolean terms related to collegiate athletes, employment, leadership and skill development. A structured screening process guided by PRISMA principles identified 250 initial sources. After removing duplicates and applying inclusion criteria, 120 studies were reviewed in full. The selected literature was thematically categorized into key areas such as leadership development, teamwork, transition challenges and employer perceptions. The review integrates theoretical insights with practical applications to support organizational strategies related to athlete workforce integration. Findings Collegiate athlete hires offer performance-enhancing strengths such as adaptability, collaboration and a competitive drive that enhance organizational culture and performance. However, successful integration requires overcoming biases, supporting transitions and aligning organizational goals with athlete aspirations. Inclusive hiring practices, mentorship and targeted onboarding improve retention and long-term engagement. Athlete hires also align naturally with CSR, DEI and sustainability goals. Originality/value This paper connects collegiate athlete workforce integration to sustainability, CSR and strategic talent development. It offers a framework for aligning athletic experience with business objectives and introduces a practitioner-focused research agenda to close the gap between academic insights and organizational needs.