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Student Spotlights

Our students are making a difference in their communities and beyond. Read about their experiences and how they are applying their knowledge in real-world settings.

The sport management program prepared me for my next chapter by helping me discover who I am both professionally and personally. The hands-on experiences, internships, and support from my professors have given me the confidence to step into the sports industry knowing I have real skills to offer.

Emily Chittester

Class: 2025 Hometown: DuBois, PA

B.S., Sport Management

Read More : about Emily Chittester

Every single professor in the program has your best interests in mind and genuinely looks to help you. I knew I could always turn to my professors for guidance in any situation, and I was never turned away. Their support has made a lasting impact on me, and I’m incredibly grateful.

James Stamoulis

Class: 2025 Hometown: Northborough, MA

B.S., Sport Management

Read More : about James Stamoulis

The best thing about being a Mountaineer is the opportunities available to you here. It's up to you to make your college experience move you closer to your career goals.

Aidan Forget

Class: 2028 Hometown: Wheeling, W.Va.

Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology

Read More : about Aidan Forget

Latest News

News and notes from around the School of Sport Sciences.


              A speed skater goes around a turn in competition.

From WVU Today: Ziegler says embracing pressure may help Olympic athletes go for gold

Thursday, January 22, 2026

Luca Ziegler, a graduate student in  sport, exercise and performance psychology and  clinical mental health counseling at the  WVU College of Applied Human Sciences, says athletes have to stay open, aware, and engaged under pressure, whether they’re competing on the world stage or in a local match. That psychological flexibility helps shape their performance.

Read More: From WVU Today: Ziegler says embracing pressure may help Olympic athletes go for gold

              Photo of a water tower with a flying WV logo during the fall.

WVU launches online master’s in sport and performance psychology

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

West Virginia University has launched an online Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology through the College of Applied Human Sciences, expanding graduate pathways in a field where WVU already holds a national reputation for academic and professional excellence.

Read More: WVU launches online master’s in sport and performance psychology

              Sam Zizzi smiles outside of the Applied Human Sciences Building. He is wearing a tie and glasses and the WVU Rec Center is in the background on a sunny day.

From WVU Today: Zizzi explains science behind sticking to resolutions

Monday, January 05, 2026

What began as a temporary stop at West Virginia University turned into a 25-year career for Sam Zizzi, now the Dr. Pat Fehl Endowed Professor in the College of Applied Human Sciences. A reknowned expert in sport, exercise and performance psychology, Zizzi studies why motivation fades, how mindfulness reshapes performance, and what helps people sustain healthier habits in real life. Read more about how Zizzi’s research, teaching and service continue to impact performance and well-being.

Read More: From WVU Today: Zizzi explains science behind sticking to resolutions

              WVU esports team members sit in a row at computer stations wearing headsets and focused on gameplay during a competitive match.

WVU Esports to host West Virginia Scholastic Esports League Fall Finals

Tuesday, December 02, 2025

Editor's note: The WVSEL event has been postponed due to weather conditions. The new date will be announced soon. 

Read More: WVU Esports to host West Virginia Scholastic Esports League Fall Finals

Read more stories about the School of Sport Sciences.

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