Jacob Tingle's research focuses on organizational systems which impact the experiences of sport volunteers and contract staff; sports officials are a population of particular interest. He is a member of the Referee and Sports Official Research Network, which brings together academics, sports official industry professionals, and policy makers from around the world.
In a recent Sport Management Review publication, Tingle and colleagues explored the social networks of self-identified LGBTQ+ sports officials. The research, titled "Allyship and social support networks: Examining feelings of safety and confidence among LGBTQ+ sports officials" uncovered important variables indicating the impact allies have on areas associated with the mental health and retention of LGBTQ+ sports officials. The findings confirm previous research that social networks provide stability and a sense of belonging in ways that improve factors associated with mental health.
Another study, “Exploring shared experiences as citizen sport diplomats: A collaborative self-ethnography” was co-authored by Trinity faculty Angela Breidenstein, Ph.D., and Randall Griffiths, Ph.D. from University of the Incarnate Word. This research resulted from The Leadership through Sports Program exchange with North Macedonian volleyball coaches, which was supported by a $35,000 grant funded by the U.S. Department of State/Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs/Sports Diplomacy Division with support from PH International.
Open access versions to all of Tingle's research can be found on Trinity's digital commons page.