Working with International Student-Athletes: How to Communicate and Build Effective Relationships

Abstract:
There has been an increase in the number of international student-athletes within collegiate athletics. Many come to the United States for the chance to play a sport while earning their degree. A number of these student-athletes have never been to the United States, away from their families, or able to speak English. Being able to communicate about injuries, treatment, doctor's appointments, and health insurance will have to be handled differently along with cultural differences. In this case report methods of communication, problems faced, benefits of working with international student-athletes, and how to build strong relationships with these athletes will be examined.

Objectives:

• Participants will be able to gain communication skills with international student-athletes., 
• Participants will be able to identify what methods of communication work best for your international student-athletes., 
• Participants will be able to learn how to build a relationship of trust with international student-athletes., 
• Participants will be able to identify how to communicate with international student-athletes parents., 
• Participants will be able to learn how to overcome language barriers and create your own language for your team.

Level:
Essential

Domains:
Domain 1: Risk Reduction Wellness and Health Literacy

CEUs:
1.0 Category A

Keywords: international student-athletes, communication, language barrier, trust, cultural differences, patient care

On-Demand (Enhanced Access) Course Expiration:
Courses registered for after February 5, 2025, must be completed by December 31, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CST.
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