Talented athletes as high achievers—only in sports? Analysis of academic performance and the impact of dual career assistance programmes in upper secondary school

Abstract The simultaneous pursuit of success in elite sport and the highest school qualification is considered to be one challenges for adolescents who are sporting talents. Dual career assistance programmes (DCAPs) student-athletes designed help master this challenge best possible way. This study focusses on upper secondary performance 200 from an sports school. First, enrolled two different DCAPs was compared. In addition educational services DCAP‑1, DCAP‑2 includes a 1-year extension period option spreading final exam phase out over several years. Second, compared with entire student population. analyses yielded following findings: 1) student-athletes’ well above average 2) Although, users much more involved sport, their development do not differ DCAP‑1 users. These results provide any indication systematic neglect academic favour athletic career. appear ensure careers effectively.