International Journal of Sport Management

Invisible Players: A Scoping Review
 of International Student-Athletes 
in US College Sports

Becca Grizzard, Melody Alanis, Natasha T. Brison

Abstract: The recruitment of international student-athletes (ISAs) to participate in intercollegiate athletics in the US has increased exponentially since the 1980s. As ISAs leave their home country to move to the US, they face many obstacles including issues related to ethnicity, race, and cultural practices. This study is a scoping review analyzing literature from 1987-2022. In this review, the authors share the volume of literature, the theories researchers have used, and the major themes that emerged in the existing scholarship. The scoping review highlights areas that have been researched, identifies gaps, and provides insight into future areas requiring attention. The goal is to provide current and future ISAs with tools to combat the challenges they face and improve their experiences. In addition, this review also informs coaches, teammates, and administration of ISAs’ needs to acclimate to the US and the intercollegiate athletic culture.

Keywords: Intercollegiate Athletics, International Student-Athletes, NCAA, Culture, Lived Experiences

Citation: Grizzard, B., Alanis, M., & Brison, N. T. (2023). Invisible players: A scoping review of international student-athletes in US college sports. International Journal of Sport Management, 24(3), 266-289.

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