Enhancing Identity Formation and Self-Reflection in Student-Athletes: The Effectiveness of the Athlete Portfolio (AP) Chart Workshop

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the Athlete Portfolio (AP) Chart, a structured self-reflection tool adapted from the Teaching Portfolio (TP) Chart, in supporting identity development among university student-athletes. A total of 140 elite kendo student-athletes (109 male, 31 female; M age = 20.19 ± 1.82 years) participated in a 2.5-hour in-person workshop in January 2025, during which they completed the AP Chart by handwriting responses across seven domains: Responsibility, Identity, Policy, Methods, Effort, Achievements, and Goals. The primary purpose was to help participants visualize and connect their values, behaviors, and goals as both athletes and students. Pre- and post-workshop questionnaire data were collected using a seven-item, five-point Likert scale, measuring dimensions such as self-organization, identity clarity, and goal awareness. Paired t-tests revealed statistically significant improvements across all items (p < .01), with notable gains in method-value alignment, reflective thinking, and future goal setting. Qualitative analysis of open-ended responses (n = 140) supported these findings. Many participants reported increased clarity about their experiences and values, while others acknowledged emotional discomfort stemming from the realization of previously unrecognized personal gaps. These responses were interpreted as early signs of deeper self-awareness. The results suggest that the AP Chart functions as an effective identity development and reflection tool for student-athletes. Furthermore, the handwritten, in-person format may facilitate greater emotional engagement and peer-supported learning than digital alternatives. The AP Chart workshop holds promise as a practical intervention for promoting holistic development and career readiness among student-athletes in higher education.