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One of the research traditions in sociology of sport is the study of athletic participation and academic achievement. Yet most of this research is primarily descriptive in nature and produces little cumulative explanatory knowledge; furthermore, the findings appear contradictory and confusing. The present paper utilizes the exchange and symbolic interactionist perspectives to analyze the concept of commitment to the multiple roles of athlete and scholar. These theoretical perspectives provide the potential for a greater understanding, explanation, and meaning to the findings in this area of research.

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The tension and excitement of competitive sport is created by the indeterminacy of the contest that is based on an approximate equity between the contestants. Yet players and teams vary in competence and prestige, and those with less competence are frequently labeled as the underdog. While winning is valued, cross-cutting values often create sentiments for the underdog, that is, the desire for the underdog to overcome the inferior status and upset the favored opponent. Social support for the underdog reflects a utilitarian perspective that helps maintain an emotional interest in a contest; additionally, underdogs receive support from the social value of equity. At a microlevel, the underdog status is often used to increase the level of motivation and performance. Data gathered from university students are used to support the positions taken in the paper.