Student-athletes face a number of challenges that are not inherently addressed in a collegiate institutional structure. In addition to the usual sets of academic and social pressures faced by their nonathlete peers, student-athletes face a unique set of demands, including athletic training, competition, media relations, strength and conditioning programs, and attention to a life style that has little opportunity for continuation beyond the college experience. A review of the literature highlights issues in three areas: programming for student athletes, the role of the athletic director, and the role of the senior student affairs officer. Although athletics directors and the senior student affairs officers play important roles in the development, retention, and growth of student-athletes, not to be overlooked is the importance of the involvement of middle-level administrators in working with student-athletes. True support for student-athletes may come from alternative sources, including supportive faculty members and residence hall directors. Recommended is an increased reliance on orientation or transitional programs to address the unique needs of student-athletes. (Contains 34 references.) (MAB)