Developing interventional strategies to improve athlete motivation for optimal performance in Zimbabwean elite basketball competition

Author

Bandika, Nancy

Title

Developing interventional strategies to improve athlete motivation for optimal performance in Zimbabwean elite basketball competition

Abstract

The study looks at athlete motivation in Zimbabwean elite basketball to develop strategies that improve or enhance performance. It focuses on both internal factors, like personal drive, and external factors, such as rewards and support. Basketball in Zimbabwe faces challenges like inconsistent funding and limited professional paths, which affects athlete morale. While other countries have explored tailored motivational strategies, there is little research in Zimbabwe. The aim is to create interventions that boost motivation by addressing issues like poor coaching practices and lack of mental resilience among players, which may lead to decreased performance and youth involvement. Understanding motivation can help coaches and policymakers enhance training methods and support young athletes. The main research question is to identify how to develop effective strategies for motivation, with the secondary question being about the current interventions and their effectiveness. Using mixed methods, the study combines surveys and interviews with athletes, coaches, and managers to identify what works best. Early findings show that structured team-building and constructive feedback significantly improve motivation, but there are gaps in awareness and tailored strategies used. Overall, improving motivation in Zimbabwean elite basketball requires focused strategies that consider the local cultural and psychological factors. These insights will guide future research and practical applications to boost performance and engagement in the sport.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Interventional Strategies

Athlete Motivation

Optimal Performance

Elite Basketball Competition

Supervisor

Mr. T. Chipanga