Role of Sports Education in Preventing Competitive Sports Dropout: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach

Abstract

This paper aimed to analyze predictive ability of sport education for competitive sports dropout. Variables in the model: perceived adequacy of sports education, financial factor, injury management, career opportunities in sports, intention to practice sports and dropout. The study was performed over a period of 10 months. 200 Indian athletes were included in study, aged 16-23 years (μ =20.41, σ=1.65), 120 male and 80 female. Self-constructed questionnaire was administered to measure variables considered as predictors of sports dropout, and after 10 months persistence or dropout was assessed. Structural equation modeling supported causal model with direct relationship between perceived adequacy of sports education and intention to practice sport (r=0.50, p<0.05). Analysis of invariance found the model consistent for age and gender. However, MANOVA revealed that intention to practice, although assessed at the start of study, was significantly different for those athletes who persisted at 10 months than those who dropped out. Age-related differences were also identified: as the age increased, need for a job increased and intention to practice sport decreased, while there were no differences in other variables. The results support the hypotheses that efficient sports education program may help decrease dropout by empowering athletes about nutrition, injury management, and career prospects.