Motivational strategies of sport coaches in South Africa

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to establish what techniques or strategies are
used by sports coaches in South Africa to motivate their athletes/players. Altogether
780 questionnaires were distributed to sports coaches, of which 274 were used for
the interpretation of the data collected. A factor analysis showed that sports coaches
in South Africa mainly make use of the following strategies to motivate their
athletes/players: reward, the winning factor, cognitive techniques and the building of
self-confidence. Significant differences were found with regard to the way in which
sports coaches apply the motivation strategies identified according to the different
sport types, levels of coaching, gender, and training in sport psychology. At the same
time no significant differences could be noted for the variables institution (high
school and primary school sports coaches), experience as a sports coach, and
qualifications (training) as a sports coach.

Keywords: Motivation; Sports coach; Motivation strategies.

South African Journal for Research in Sport, Physical Education and Recreation Vol. 29 (1) 2007: pp. 83-96