Issues and Challenges in English Courses Offered by Universities to Student Players Studying at Undergraduate Levels

Abstract

Background: Students Players who attend universities frequently encounter particular difficulties juggling their involvement in both sports and academics. These student-athletes face unique challenges in English classes that affect their academic achievement. Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate the main problems that student-athletes have in English classes, such as poor time management, low motivation, exhaustion, and restricted access to educational materials. Methods: The study employs a qualitative research methodology using semi-structured interviews involving a sample size (n=60) student players. Student players were enrolled in English courses belonging to Government College University of Faisalabad and The University of Faisalabad. Student players were aged between 19 to 25 years with M± SD (2.02±1.070). Results: Statistical analyses were performed using descriptive statistics and thematic method to evaluate the data. The findings showed that student-athletes frequently suffered from time restrictions which impair their ability to concentrate and participate in English classes. They also struggled with a lack of specialized academic help, insufficient support, and language obstacles. Conclusion: This research demonstrated that undergraduate university student-athletes have several difficulties in their English classes such as time restraints, scholastic demands, and the issue of juggling language acquisition with athletic responsibilities. These difficulties may affect their general well-being, linguistic skills, and academic achievement. A supportive learning environment and specialized teaching strategies that consider each student’s particular requirements are necessary to address these problems. Universities may assist student-athletes in improving their English while effectively juggling their twin obligations to academics and sports by putting such measures into place.