BARRIERS, Motivation and Sports Participation in Selected Regions in Mindanao: An Explanatory Sequential STUDY

Abstract

Sports participation is important for emerging sporting countries, yet participation has continued to decline worldwide. This sequential explanatory mixed methods study examined barriers to sports participation and motivation among tertiary students in selected Mindanao regions, including BARMM, Northern Mindanao, SOCCSKSARGEN, and Zamboanga Peninsula. Using surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions, the study found that students experienced a high overall level of barriers. Social, religious, and psychological barriers were rated high, while university-related and academic-related barriers were moderate. Sports participation motivation was also high overall, particularly in relation to playing with friends, popularity, social status, sports events, and relaxation. Fitness and health motivation received a very high rating. Basketball, volleyball, and badminton were the most preferred sports. Most students had participated for one year or less, usually once a week for two to three hours. Motivation significantly influenced years of participation, frequency, duration, and type of sport. Qualitative findings generally confirmed the quantitative results, especially the influence of motivation on sports participation.