BENCHED BEFORE THE GAME BEGINS: THE UNSEEN STRUGGLES OF BLACK WOMEN WITH HBCU BACKGROUNDS IN INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS LEADERSHIP

The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of Black women with HBCU backgrounds in intercollegiate athletic leadership and examine the barriers, organizational challenges, and support systems that shape their leadership experiences. Eight participants serving in intercollegiate athletic leadership roles were interviewed to identify recurring themes related to leadership, legitimacy, identity, and resilience. Six themes emerged: navigating male-dominated and racialized spaces, the constant need to prove legitimacy, lack of support and internal tensions, silencing and limited authority, HBCU influence on leadership identity, and resilience through faith, community, and purpose. Participants described experiences of exclusion, overperformance, and limited access to institutional power, while also identifying HBCU backgrounds as foundational to their confidence and resilience. This study contributes to intercollegiate athletic leadership literature by centering the voices of Black women with HBCU backgrounds and highlighting the need for more inclusive and equitable leadership environments within athletics.