Current Study

Given the effects an injury can have on a collegiate athlete (Brewer et al., 2010; Green & Weinberg, 2001; Groot et al., 2018; Koren et al., 2005; Sheinbein, 2016) plus the psychosocial impacts of COVID-19 (Elabiyi, 2020; Gualano et al., 2020; Rubin & Wessely, 2020), there is a need for understanding on how the two major life events may create more difficulties for the injured student-athlete. This study provides insight to the common reactions of a student-athlete post-injury, interpersonal impacts on a student-athlete from both their injury and COVID-19, rehabilitation changes due to COVID-19, and a perspective from injured student-athletes on the current availability and effectiveness of mental-health resources. Zoellner & Maerker (2006) found qualitative examination allows the researchers to utilize the injured student-athlete perspective in order to form a greater understanding of the experiences. This information provides value for athletic trainers, sport psychologists, social workers, and other physical and behavioral health providers working to promote the rehabilitation and well-being of an injured student-athlete during COVID-19.