The Integration of motor-mindedness in coaching strategies and its impact on youth athletic performance in Rivers state, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the integration of motor-mindedness in coaching strategies and its impact on youth athletic performance in Rivers State, Nigeria. The was guided by five research questions and five hypotheses. The study adopted the descriptive survey design. Data were collected from a sample of 200 respondents drawn from consisting of 100 coaches and 100 athletes through a structured questionnaire. The study aimed to determine the level of awareness of motor-mindedness among coaches, the extent of its application, the challenges faced in its implementation, and its impact on athlete performance. Data were analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, including Mean, Standard deviation, Chi-square tests, independent samples t-tests, ANOVA, and Pearson’s correlation. The results revealed a high level of awareness of motor-mindedness principles among coaches (χ² = 23.78, p = 0.001), with moderate to high levels of application across various motor-psychological techniques. However, several challenges were identified, particularly among less experienced coaches, including inadequate training and institutional support (F = 4.67, p = 0.013). Importantly, athletes coached using motor-mindedness strategies performed significantly better than those trained with conventional methods (t = 3.21, p = 0.002). A strong positive correlation was also found between the use of motor-mindedness strategies and athlete performance (r = 0.61, p < 0.01). The study concludes that while coaches are increasingly aware of and applying motor-mindedness principles, structural and educational barriers persist. It recommends the integration of motor-mindedness into coach education programs and policy frameworks to promote more effective and psychologically grounded coaching practices in Nigeria.