Practice Note: Social Workers, Suit Up! An Analysis of a Practicum Placement within a Collegiate Athletic Department

Michelle Muglia; Carrie Jankowski

doi:10.33043/k72e5g56284

Authors

Michelle Muglia University of Oklahoma
Carrie Jankowski University of Oklahoma https://orcid.org/0009-0000-3555-9697

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33043/k72e5g56284

Keywords:

sport social work, social work, university athletics, field education, student-athletes, social work students, educational development

Abstract

This practice note presents a case study in the emerging area of sport social work field education while providing best practice recommendations to guide future placements within these unique and complex environments. While some foundational literature exists regarding athletic department culture and general field education standards, little guidance is available on navigating the specific challenges and opportunities that arise when establishing social work practicums in sports settings. Offered in this note are stakeholder-specific recommendations, emphasizing early immersion in athletic culture, the promotion of reflective and interdisciplinary practice, and the importance of building robust support structures for student-athletes. It further outlines institutional strategies for athletic departments, social work field education programs, preceptors, and supervisory practices to foster ethical, culturally competent, and adaptive learning environments. By addressing these considerations, this note contributes to the growing body of sport social work literature and offers practical insights for developing sustainable, equity-driven, and student-centered practicum experiences in athletic contexts.

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Author Biography

Carrie Jankowski, University of Oklahoma

Carrie Jankowski, MSSW, LCSW has been practicing clinical social work since 2001. Her clinical focus and experience in social work has primarily focused on the healthcare field. She has worked with numerous populations, including children and adults with special needs, individuals and families, and older adults. She has worked in settings such as inpatient and outpatient clinics, schools, and private practice.

Carrie continues to guide emerging social workers at the undergraduate, graduate and post graduate levels. Currently in the role of OU Anne & Henry Zarrow School of Social Work Field Education Coordinator for the Norman campus, she works with approximately 250 social work students each year overseeing the Field Education Practicum process. She has been in the roles of Community Faculty, Field Instructor, and Faculty Liaison during her years with the school. She received the honor of student-selected “Community Faculty of the Year” for 2015-2016. She has been an Oklahoma Board Approved Supervisor leading clinical supervision since 2013 and was a practicing clinician for 16 years before joining OU’s faculty.

Carrie is a Louisiana native who is proud of her Texas Longhorn MSSW education, and thrilled to be adopted into the Sooner family. She has been married to Matt since 2001. She has boy/girl twins, George and Abigail, and enjoys an active lifestyle, including outdoor activities such as running, hiking, skiing, and traveling.

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Practice Note

Social Workers, Suit Up! An Analysis of a Practicum Placement within a Collegiate Athletic Department

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Author Biography

Carrie Jankowski, University of Oklahoma

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