An Exploratory Study on Athletic Identity of University Athletes in Selected Sports in Kenya
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Date
2023
Authors
Rintaugu, Elijah Gitonga
Karega, Muchiri
Kurui, Ishmael Kiprono
Mwangi, Francis Mundia
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kadir YILDIZ
Abstract
Athletic identity is a precursor to numerous sport inclinations like participation, talent development and competition. This
becomes more salient in educational institutions where student-athletes are required to play a dual role. The purpose of this
study was to explore the athletic identity of university athletes in selected sports. It was postulated that athletic identity
formation of the university athletes will vary based on selected variables of gender, age and year of study. Data was collected
from athletes who were taking part in university sports championships using Athletic Identity Measurement Scale (AIMS).
The sample comprised 183 (67.78%) males and 89 (32.22%) females. Most of the university athletes were in the 1st and 3rd
years of study, and 60% of the players had two years of playing experience. The results revealed that the university athletes
had high perceptions of self- identity, social identity and exclusivity and low perceptions on negative affectivity. It is concluded
that athletic identity is mediated by situational factors such as age and gender. Consequently, sports psychologists and coaches
need to assist athletes improve and sustain their athletic identities. Sport psychologists could train the athletes on how to
enhance athletic identity and maximize their sports performance. Future research could address, athletic identity and sports
performance as well as athletic identity and athletes in specific playing positions.
Description
Article
Keywords
Athletic identify, University athletes, Gender, Type of sports, Playing experience
Citation
Rintaugu, E., Karega, M., Kirui, I., & Mwangi, F. M. (2023). An Exploratory Study on Athletic Identity of University Athletes in Selected Sports in Kenya. Sport Bilimleri Araştırmaları Dergisi, 8(2), 175-185.