The purpose of this study was to document and examine the career of Alonzo Smith "Jake" Gaither, and to analyze the impact and the nature of his contributions on Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and black athletes of Florida. A further purpose was to determine the factors which influenced Gaither's life and career: his philosophy as it related to coaching and to education; the impact which he made on black athletics and black athletes, as perceived by the athletes themselves; and the contributions which he made to Florida A&M University. / An instrument consisting of 22 items requiring a response on a modified Likert-type scale and open-ended questions, including a description of a critical incident, was used to survey a random sample of 200 former players, 96 (48%) of whom responded. Twenty-four structured questions were used in interviews conducted with 24 former colleagues in coaching, non-athletic FAMU colleagues, and relevant external figures. An open-ended question provided an opportunity for additional information. / Analysis included calculation of mean ratings of questionnaire items by player subgroups. Responses to open-ended questions and responses of subjects interviewed were analyzed for content and summarized. / The findings of the study indicated that: (1) Gaither was influenced by his strong religious background, respect for authority, and the rights of others, instilled by his parents. Illness resulting from a brain tumor required great courage and determination and inspired a strong will to survive and win. (2) His coaching philosophy was an extension of the man himself and inspired survival and achievement. Players' academic achievement reflected in acquisition of degrees was considered his greatest success. (3) Gaither provided a father image who instilled self-respect and self-worth within his players which were positive influences after college. (4) Gaither's successful Health and Physical Education and athletic programs drew national attention and support for Florida A&M University. / Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 48-02, Section: A, page: 0263. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--The Florida State University, 1987.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:fsu.edu/oai:fsu.digital.flvc.org:fsu_76017 |
| Contributors | EASON, ARCENOUIS JOHN., Florida State University |
| Source Sets | Florida State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Text |
| Format | 226 p. |
| Rights | On campus use only. |
| Relation | Dissertation Abstracts International |
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