Study on athletes non-participation at national level

Abstract

In Singapore there seem to be a general increase in the sport participation rate among the population but not a corresponding increase in the quality of performance. What are the likely reasons for the statement. Lack of facilities, infra-structure, qualified coaches, competition, talented athletes, etc., are some of the likely reasons. But what are the real reasons? The Singapore Sports Council (SSC), as well as, most of the National Sports Associations (NSAs) recognise one particular problem among our young athletes, that is, they seem to discontinue competitive participation once they leave school. This study attempts to examine reasons why Combined School athletes in Singapore discontinue competitive participation. Some 134 Combined School athletes from 1984 to 1990 were surveyed. These athletes were from four different sports, namely, badminton, netball, soccer and track and field. The age of the athletes range from 19 to 26. The mean age of the athletes was 20.25 years. The athletes were involved in their respective sports for a mean of 5.61 years. Of the 134 athletes, 62 responded. Thirty-six of the 62 were no longer in competitive participation. Eighteen of these athletes were male. The responses of the athlete on why they chose to discontinue were ranked by frequency. The two most frequent reasons ranked were "Work Commitment" and "Motivation." "Work Commitment" was defined as interference from career and studies. "Motivation" was defined as lack of intrinsic or extrinsic rewards. The findings of this study could help the respective NSAs and other sport administrators in planning and maintaining their programmes. Understanding and alleviating the problems of Combined School athletes will not only attract them to active competitive participation but will also sustain their participation over time. This would inevitably improve the quality of sport performance in Singapore.