Research & Data

We will be the first organization dedicated to researching and understanding the experiences and outcomes of Scandinavian athletes pursuing opportunities in the United States.

SSPA is committed to building a better understanding of the experiences and outcomes of Scandinavian athletes pursuing opportunities in the United States.

Today, there is very little reliable data available to athletes, parents, clubs, schools and other stakeholders about what actually happens to Swedish athletes who pursue U.S. college sports.

We want to change that.

WE NEED BETTER DATA.

WHAT WE WILL STUDY

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY

How many Swedish athletes become NCAA eligible — and where do problems occur?

SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID

How many athletes receive athletic scholarships and other forms of financial support?

THE TRANSITION TO THE U.S.

What challenges do Swedish athletes experience when moving into American college athletics?

ACADEMIC OUTCOMES

How do Swedish student-athletes perform academically once they arrive?

ATHLETE WELL-BEING

Mental health, homesickness, stress, social adjustment and overall well-being.

INJURIES & ATHLETE HEALTH

How injuries affect athletic, academic and financial outcomes.

RETENTION & OUTCOMES

How many athletes remain at their original university, transfer, return to Sweden or complete their degree?

That last one is important and isn't explicitly on your current page. I would absolutely research it.

Without data, we are relying on stories and assumptions.

With data, we can start identifying patterns, problems and opportunities.
Our research will not simply identify problems. It will help us develop better education, improve our certification standards, identify risks, advocate for athletes and families, and make evidence-based recommendations to clubs, schools, federations and other stakeholders.

The findings will be compiled and published annually in:

The Swedish Youth Sports Report