Abstract
Sports like track and field have complex interdependence structures, wherein teams are divided by event types with distinct tasks and objectives, while simultaneously sharing a collective outcome. Theorists expect that inherent structural features shape members' interactions by distinguishing teammates whose outcomes are intertwined (Evans et al., 2012). The purpose of this study was to examine: (a) the relationship between athlete centrality and perceptions of team cohesion, and (b) the density of ties among members who share common attributes (e.g., compete in same event). This study followed a Canadian intercollegiate track and field team composed of 113 athletes (49% female) representing four event types. Questionnaires assessed demographics, perceived cohesion, and roster-based nomination items pertaining to social interactions. Data were collected across two waves: (1) early season (n = 78), and (2) postseason (n = 63). At an individual level, beta-centrality and perceived cohesion were measured at each wave. At a group-level, Quadratic Assessment Procedure (QAP) correlations explored how sex and event related to athlete interactions. Results indicated a significant relationship between athlete centrality and perceptions of cohesion (early: r = 0.437 p = <0.001; late: r = 0.571, p = <0.001). Additionally, small relationships were found for sex (r = 0.090, p = <0.001) at both waves, and event type for early (r = 0.233, p = <0.001) but not late season (r = 0.033, p = 0.055). Results indicate (1) structural divisions weaken over time, (2) multiple variables likely influence tie formation, and (3) certain athletes can bridge social gaps.
