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Research regarding the benefits and detriments of the U.S. collegiate sport governance structure are mixed. Guided by Richardson’s Resiliency Theory (2002), former athletes (n = 215) revealed specific themes of adversity experienced during college with the most prevalent including injury, time demands, and coach-athlete tension. Through interview, athletes noted adversity promoted their resiliency, facilitated grit/perseverance, enhanced teamwork and time management skills, and led to other forms of growth. This study extends our understanding of the long-term impacts of competitive sport participation in this context. This understanding is important for administrators seeking to maximize participant experiences and emulate, enhance, or reform the U.S. College Sport governance model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Receiving a lifetime award allows one to pause and reflect on one's research journey. In the spirit of Earle Zeigler himself, I reflect on: "What I have learned ... " on my research journey, and more specifically on how I got there. My research has always focused on the interaction between sport, economics, and society and evolved: "From socio-economic impacts on sport participation to socio-economic outcomes of sport events." To cover 40 years of research, I am highlighting how: (a) "triggers," (b) "influencers," and (c) "lessons learned" intermingled to push my research agenda forward. This reflection proved to be a very gratifying exercise. I can highly recommend it to all researchers. Perhaps, this can become a stepping stone to be promoted to the rank of Prof. Emeritus or Emerita. Either way, sharing our experiences may trigger, inspire, and advance the learning of future generations of sport management scholars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this integrative review we analyze research from multiple fields of study in regards to gender equality, gender equity, and sport participation over the past twenty years (2000–2020). Key findings highlight a) women and girls' socialization into sport and the performance of femininity and heteronormativity, b) the psychological benefits, negative effects, and participant retention, c) a lack of transformative critique of sport structures and barriers to access, and d) critique of sport policy that enhances equity and equality. Embedded throughout the presentation of these four interrelated areas of interest, we offer a critique about the state of research so that others might draw insight for future research directions. We conclude by outlining potential intersectional and transformational frameworks that connect research to social and political action. We also provide commentary on knowledge creation, databases, and the politicization of knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between high school sport participation among university students and whether previous sports participation was associated with current levels of exercise-self efficacy, resilience, and psychological need satisfaction physical activity behaviors. Participants: College freshmen (n = 152) in the United States responded to an electronic survey sent out by their university. Methods: Participants completed a set of questionnaires assessing resilience, psychological need satisfaction in exercise, self-efficacy, and current PA. Results: Analysis of variance, Kruskal-Wallis H tests, independent samples t-tests, and ordinary least squares regression modeling were used. Total PA and having met moderate PA guidelines were both associated with exercise SE and PNSE. HS GPA, total PA, and being a college athlete were associated with both resilience and exercise SE. Conclusions: Sport participation may serve as an effective method for students to develop exercise SE, resilience, and PNSE. The development of these skills may support lifelong PA behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the associations between sport participation and weight status with physical fitness among French adolescents. The secondary aim was to establish sex- and age-specific physical fitness percentiles for French adolescents. The sample comprised 8084 adolescents (4126 boys, 3958 girls), aged 10–14 years. Participants were tested on cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength using the following tests: 20-m shuttle run test and handgrip strength test. A questionnaire on organized sport participation was completed. Physical fitness levels were better in boys (P < 0.005). Handgrip strength increased with age whereas 20-m shuttle run performance decreased with age. Overweight and obese adolescents had significantly lower cardiorespiratory fitness levels than their normal-weight peers (P < 0.005), whereas normal-weight adolescents had lower cardiorespiratory fitness than thin adolescents (P < 0.005). Sport participation was higher for boys (57.2% boys vs. 52.8% girls) (P < 0.001). Adolescents who participated in at least one organized sport (either through a club or at school) were fitter than those who did not participate in organized sports (P < 0.005). Adolescents who engaged in organized sports were more active and physically fit than those who did not participate. The fitness benefits of club sports are greater than those provided by school-based sports, highlighting the potential of sports clubs as a key setting for promoting health. What is Known: • Physical fitness is a strong marker of health in children and adolescents. • The last French Report Card highlighted the lack of fitness data and the need for nationwide programs, while showing a significant decline in cardiorespiratory fitness among youth in recent decades.. What is New: • This study reveals that adolescents participating in organized sports have better physical fitness compared to their peers who do not, emphasizing the potential advantages of club sports over school-based activities. • We highlight the need for targeted strategies, particularly for overweight or obese adolescents and girls, to increase participation in organized sports and enhance health outcomes. • The study emphasizes the need to develop policies that improve access to organized sports clubs and expand physical education in schools, aiming to improve CRF in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the influence of physical activity on well-being. We use data from the Aspects of Daily Life survey provided by the Italian National Institute of Statistics, for the period 2013–2019. To capture the effect of sport participation on life satisfaction we face the problem of endogeneity. We solve this issue from a methodological point of view by using an instrumental variable (IV) ordered probit model, where the instrument has been identified in living nearby to an equipped green area. Our investigation suggests that physical activity is positively and strongly associated with life satisfaction, showing that the probability of being very happy is very high (70%) among individuals practicing sport regularly. For this reason, policies targeted at promoting and supporting sport practice play a key role in determining the subjective well-being of citizens. Our results also indicate a significant association between life satisfaction and gender, and between life satisfaction and inability to work, revealing the need to foster inclusive policies to reduce differences in well-being among groups of population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research question: This study aimed to examine how actors across different organizational levels respond to institutional complexity when facilitating elite sport and sport for all. By applying institutional work to understand responses to institutional complexity better, we examined the individual actors' organizational roles and why and how they transformed the complexity in performing day-to-day work. Research methods: Data were collected in a bottom-up approach using qualitative focus groups and in-depth interviews. 149 representatives within Norwegian sport organizations contributed to the study, including coaches, club managers, directors, managers in national sport organizations, and the president of the Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports (NIF) Results and findings: Institutional complexity is differently characterized at the different organizational levels. One common issue across levels is that the institutional complexity of sport for all and elite sport is seen as challenging, especially in the local sport clubs where institutional logics turn into day-to-day activity. The main source of the challenge is unifying the youth players and practitioners' different skills and ambitions, which propagates upwards in the organization. How actors respond to complexity varies within the organizational levels and the different sports. Tensions stemming from complexity are often neglected by the political argument of 'the trickle down and up effects', which to a considerable extent lacks empirical evidence. Implications: We recommend local sport managers prioritize expectation management to counteract a conflict of interests between institutional logics. It is necessary that national governing bodies better align their policies with the interest and organizational capacity of local clubs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is currently undergoing radical and dynamic changes towards development and prosperity across various domains. The Saudi government is focused on promoting physical activity because of its economic, health and cultural benefits. Therefore, sport policy represents a key part of the Saudi government's Vision (Vision 2030) within the national Quality of Life Programme. The purpose of the study was to analyse the initiatives within the policy that relate to physical activity promotion across the population. The analysis was based on the Comprehensive Analysis of Policy on Physical Activity framework to audit and assess relevant parts of the policy. Published materials were appraised to provide evidence on the progress with achieving the policy's goals and semi-structured interviews were conducted with stakeholders. Our analysis indicated an ambitious but well-founded policy and the achievement of several objectives. The most apparent achievements have thus far been the rapid, albeit modest cultural change in terms of physical activity, allowing women's sports and stimulating the level of physical activity among Saudis. Nonetheless some goals are further from being achieved, particularly those around female participation in sports. In conclusion, some progress has been made in realising the policy in relation to physical activity, but various factors exist that have hindered success in certain areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale/purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the role that event cognitions (aesthetics, evaluation, fantasy, flow, personalities) and inspiration play in generating a demonstration effect for spectators at one elite-level swimming competition, while controlling for spectators having other physical activity preferences, age, and current swimming participation status. Design/methodology/approach: Data were collected from spectators (N = 258) via a questionnaire at one elite swimming competition in Canada. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data. Findings: Results indicated that inspiration had a direct association with intentions. Furthermore, inspiration mediated the positive relationships that fantasy and aesthetics had with intentions. All of the significant relationships were able to form notwithstanding the influence of the control variables. Practical Implications: Suggestions to inspire spectators and increase post-event intentions are offered, including a focus on stimulating spectators to fantasize they are part of the action and highlighting the aesthetics of the sport. Research Contribution: Although previous research has indicated that non-swimmers or those who prefer other physical activities are less likely to participate in the sport post-event, results suggest that those conditions might not have an effect on the formation of inspiration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research question: UK government policy stresses the positive role that sport has on social outcomes and in the formation of social capital. However, while recognising the presence of corruption in sport, policy documentation barely considers the impact that corruption might have on social capital. This raises the following question, if sport can help build social capital, then does corruption in sport corrode it? Research methods: To answer this question, we drew on an experimental study design and the perceptions of 678 UK residents. Results and findings: The results indicate that being confronted with a sport corruption case corrodes people's trust in sport organisations, as well as their trust in their neighbourhood, though not other elements of social capital, such as personal relationships and civic engagement. However, the more people engage with sport, the less their trust is affected. Implications: The corrosion of trust indicates that corruption in sport can damage social capital. However, given that this erosion is ameliorated through a greater engagement with sport, sports organisations should engage in early robust challenges to any lack of integrity to prevent it from becoming embedded. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studi purpose. This study aims to determine the level of motivation among running community members in Semarang City regarding the sport of running. Materials and methods. This study uses a research method employing a survey approach. The subjects in the study are members of a running community in Semarang City, totaling 50 people. Consisting of 40 men and 10 women. The research instrument uses a motivation questionnaire that has been tested for validity with a value of 0.36 - 0.75 and a reliability value of 0.946. The data analysis technique uses quantitative descriptive analysis by finding the mean, standard of deviation, minimum and maximum value, data analysis using Microsoft Excel and SPSS 25 version. Results. Based on the results of the research on the motivation of running community members in Semarang show that their motivation level reaches 60%, which falls into the very high motivation category. In terms of intrinsic motivation, 50% of the running community members in Semarang are influenced by enjoyment aspect, with a percentage value of 35% and the fitness aspect 35%, both categorized as very high. Meanwhile, extrinsic motivation has a percentage value of 45%, driven by social interaction with 53% of the running community members in Semarang falling into the very high motivation category. Conclusions. Based on the research findings, the motivation level of running community members in Semarang City to engage in running is classified as very high, influenced by intrinsic motivations such as enjoyment and fitness, as well as extrinsic motivations like social interaction.

Abstract Background Understanding participation in sport is important for sport policy, strategy and management. Most research regarding participation in sport report general trends in participation rates. However, as societies trends in leisure-time activities are changing, we need to also understand the settings of sport participation. The aim of this study was to investigate the settings of sport participation of children and adults across 13 major sports in Victoria, Australia. Methods This study utilised data about sport participation collected in the AusPlay survey from a representative sample of adults and children in Victoria, Australia. For each of the 13 sports, the settings of participation were identified for 2020, 2021 and 2022. Respondents can report participation in a particular activity in more than one setting. Therefore, we use the term “instance of participation” to refer to a person playing a particular sport in a particular setting. We calculated the weighted frequencies and prevalences pertaining to sport participation instances in each setting. Results In 2022 compared to 2020, overall participation was 1.1% higher for children and 1.2% higher for adults. For children and adults, the most popular sport for each year was swimming. In 2022, the next most popular sports for children were Australian football, basketball, gymnastics and soccer, and for adults’ tennis, basketball, golf and Australian football. For children, approximately half of participation took place within a sports club or association setting (56-60%). For adults, approximately one third of participation took place within a sports club or association setting (36%). Much of the adult participation took place in non-organised settings. The largest increases in participation in clubs and associations in 2022 compared to 2020 for children was for, hockey, soccer, gymnastics, and Australian football. The adult participation in sports clubs or associations did not fair as well, with 8 sports decreasing the proportion of participation in this setting. Conclusion As a society, we continue to evolve in how we consume participation in sport, and sport policy, infrastructure and opportunities to play need to be directed towards those particular settings and modes of delivery of sport where and how individuals want to play.

Despite the recognized benefits of physical activity (PA) for children and adolescents with disabilities (CAWD), collective information on this is lacking in Lithuania. The purpose of this study was to investigate the current "state of the nation" PA levels of CAWD, based on the 10 indicators from the Active Healthy Kids Global Alliance Global Matrix 4.0 methodology. Scientific articles, practical reports, and published theses related to the 10 indicators from the Global Matrix 4.0 on CAWD age 6–19 years were reviewed, and data were converted to grades from A to F. (A) Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats analysis was carried out to interpret the grades by four experts. Data on organized sport participation (F), school (D), community & environment (D), and government (C) were available. Data on other indicators are largely missing yet are needed for policymakers and researchers to be aware of the current state of PA among CAWD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Investigating sport persistence can make a significant contribution to a thorough examination and understanding of the factors underlying an athlete’s activity, integrating physical activity, sports motivation and commitment. This systematic review aimed to detect the papers focusing on the factors influencing sport persistence following the levels of Bronfenbrenner’s and Bauman’s ecological models. Following the PRISMA guidelines, by the EBSCO Discovery Service Search Engine, 512 records were detected, of which 21 met the criteria. Factors influencing sport persistence show a huge variety. Individual factors and micro-system level were overrepresented. Meso- and macro-level factors are underrepresented and measured only with other (individual or micro-system level) factors. Most factors detected at the individual (e.g. gender, age, career-related variables and positive psychological factors), micro- (e.g. family, peers and coaches), meso- (e.g. climate), and macro-level (cultural, societal, and institutional influences) were positively correlated with sport persistence, i.e. supporting the persistent behaviour of the athletes regarding participating in one’s sporting activity. In conclusion, there is still room for further research concerning sport persistence. Including variables belonging to the meso- and macro-system and conducting longitudinal research should be considered which would allow us to better understand the nature of sport persistence.

Investigating sport persistence can make a significant contribution to a thorough examination and understanding of the factors underlying an athlete's activity, integrating physical activity, sports motivation and commitment. This systematic review aimed to detect the papers focusing on the factors influencing sport persistence following the levels of Bronfenbrenner's and Bauman's ecological models. Following the PRISMA guidelines, by the EBSCO Discovery Service Search Engine, 512 records were detected, of which 21 met the criteria. Factors influencing sport persistence show a huge variety. Individual factors and micro-system level were overrepresented. Meso- and macro-level factors are underrepresented and measured only with other (individual or micro-system level) factors. Most factors detected at the individual (e.g. gender, age, career-related variables and positive psychological factors), micro- (e.g. family, peers and coaches), meso- (e.g. climate), and macro-level (cultural, societal, and institutional influences) were positively correlated with sport persistence, i.e. supporting the persistent behaviour of the athletes regarding participating in one's sporting activity. In conclusion, there is still room for further research concerning sport persistence. Including variables belonging to the meso- and macro-system and conducting longitudinal research should be considered which would allow us to better understand the nature of sport persistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, despite the many recognised benefits of participation in sport, many older people do not participate in it. This study explored the opinions about barriers to participating in sport among non-active older people from the perspective of 463 senior athletes (M = 61.4, SD = 5.5 years) engaged in competitive sports. Participants completed a questionnaire including an incomplete sentence regarding the reason why many older people do not play sports. We analysed their answers using content analysis and performed bivariate analyses to determine possible associations with the sociodemographic and participatory characteristics of the sample. The results highlighted a range of perceived barriers which mostly related to past and present opportunities, and contained significant variations according to age, country of residence, and years participating in sports. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the way in which senior athletes perceive the barriers for the initiation of non-active older people in sports participation which could inform potential measures to promote greater participation in sport as a meaningful leisure activity among this age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This article presents the Olympic Kindergarten Festival "I Want to Be an Olympian" (Festival) organised by the Croatian Olympic Committee. The concept of the competition is similar to that of the Olympic Games. In parallel with the preparations for the competition, children are taught about the Olympic movement and Olympic values. The Olympic Festival includes athletics competitions in four disciplines adapted to preschool age: 50m sprint (T50m), 4x25m relay (R4x25m), ball throw (BLD) and standing long jump (SDM). Each participant can only take part in one sport or exercise. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to 1. present the quantitative values of preschool children in 4 athletics disciplines 2. determine whether there are significant differences between the participating preschool boys and girls in the 4 athletics disciplines of the festival programme and whether there are significant differences in terms of competition level (city and county). Results: The sample for this study consisted of subsamples of 1625 girls and 1668 boys in the softball long throw, 1659 girls and 1599 boys in the standing long jump, 1492 girls and 1564 boys in the 50 m sprint, and 832 girls' and 804 boys' teams in the 4x25 m relay, attending older kindergarten groups in the Republic of Croatia. Descriptive statistics were compiled for all variables analysed. Differences between the counties and between genders and their mutual interaction were tested using a two-factorial analysis of variance (ANOVA) with interaction for all analysed variables. The mean values of the boys were higher (cm)/better (sec.) than those of the girls for all variables. The figures show that there are gender differences in all counties for all observed variables. We find that the effects of the interaction between county and level of competition are statistically significant for all observed variables. Conclusion: After analysing and comparing the results with those of the 2007 Festival on a representative number of participants, we find that there is a decline in motor skills at pre-school age in all observed disciplines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research delves into the gender disparities observed in sport participation among immigrant groups, aiming to enhance our understanding of the underlying factors contributing to these gaps. Specifically, the study examines the impact of parental origin-country gender inequality and Muslim majority ('cultural legacy') and the adaptation to host country norms across immigrant generations ('cultural dynamics'). Utilizing nationally representative survey data encompassing 28,000 first- and second-generation immigrant youth from 32 distinct origin groups in Italy, we uncover evidence regarding the influence of parental origin-country culture on sport participation. Notably, immigrant youth with parents hailing from more conservative countries exhibit wider gender gaps in sports involvement. Additionally, we observe heightened gender differences in sport participation among youth whose parents were born and raised in Muslim-majority nations. Furthermore, our findings underscore the presence of cultural dynamics, as second-generation immigrant boys and girls display a significantly greater likelihood of engaging in sports compared to their first-generation counterparts. Notably, girls experience the most substantial gains in sport activity across generations. The results suggest that second-generation immigrant youth, particularly those with mixed heritage, assimilate the cultural practices of their host society while diminishing the impact of the parental origin country on sport participation choices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prior research has shown that physical activity (PA) is a crucial element for preserving and enhancing health, particularly among children and adolescents, and consistent engagement in PA offers numerous advantages for sustaining typical physical and mental well-being. Purpose: Hence, the primary objective of this study was to examine the relationship between sport participation, muscle-strengthening exercise (MSE), and active commuting (AC) in the co-occurrence of depression and anxiety in Chinese children and adolescents. Method: This cross-sectional investigation occurred in various cities across the southeastern region of China between March 2021 and October 2021. A convenient sampling method was utilized. We invited children and adolescents to participate in the questionnaire survey. A total of 1,996 participants completed the questionnaires with the endorsement of their parents or guardians under the supervision of schoolteachers and headmasters. Girls comprised 47.5% of the participants, and the average age of participants was 14.8 ± 2.0 years. We conducted a logistic regression analysis, including 95% confidence intervals, to explore the association between sports participation, MSE, AC, and the cooccurrence of depression and anxiety. Results: No significant association was observed between weekday active commuting for travelling to and from school and MSE and the comorbidity of depression and anxiety in children and adolescents. A negative association was only detected for those who engaged in muscle-strengthening exercises 4 days a week (OR = 0.540, 95% CI = 0.345-0.845) compared to those who did not partake in such exercises. Conclusion: The present study has provided evidence of the connection between sports participation and the co-occurrence of depression and anxiety among Chinese children and adolescents. Sports participation is more likely to help adolescents relieve anxiety and depression than AC, MSE. In forthcoming research, it is imperative to delve deeper into strategies that enhance the impact of sports on the mental well-being of children and young individuals. Furthermore, optimizing the magnitude of this effect may be achievable by focusing on neurobiological, behavioral, and psychosocial mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Youth of colour, especially from low socioeconomic status (SES) backgrounds, are at higher risk for experiencing mental and physical health challenges due to poverty and racism; however, they are less likely to seek and engage in formal mental health services and medical care due to stigma, time constraints, financial burdens, and cultural mistrust for the medical field more broadly. This commentary will describe how participation in sport for youth of colour from low SES backgrounds has benefits that extend across the Eight Dimensions of Wellness Model, illustrating the power of sport as a tool for prevention and support. The authors conclude with a call to action to mobilize government officials, healthcare providers, educators and coaches to encourage sport participation as a tool to improve individual wellness for today's youth of colour and uplift communities. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trait emotional intelligence (EI) has gained considerable attention in educational research due to its influence on teaching effectiveness and student outcomes. Despite its importance, there is limited understanding of trait EI among pre-service physical education (PE) teachers, a group for whom EI is crucial given the interpersonal nature of their future roles. This study aims to address this gap by examining the trait EI profiles of pre-service PE teachers and investigating potential differences based on gender, athletic level, and type of sport participation. The study included 926 pre-service PE teachers (499 males and 427 females) from a prominent School of PE and Sport Science in Greece. Participants completed the Schutte Self-Report Emotional Intelligence Scale (SSREI), which assesses trait EI and its four factors: Emotion regulation of self, Appraisal of emotions of others, Appraisal of emotions of the self, and Using emotions for problem solving. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses, including MANOVA, were employed to analyze the data. Results indicated that pre-service PE teachers generally exhibit moderate to high levels of trait EI, with a mean overall trait EI score of 2.83 (SD=.42). Gender differences were observed, with females scoring significantly higher in Appraisal of emotions of others and overall trait EI compared to males (p<.01). On the other hand, no statistically significant differences observed between participants of different athletic level and type of sport participation (p>.05). The findings indicate a generally better-developed capacity for empathy and social awareness among female pre-service PE teachers compare to their male counterparts. These findings further underscore the importance of integrating EI training in PE teacher education programs to enhance future teachers' emotional and interpersonal skills. This study contributes to the literature by providing a comprehensive analysis of trait EI in pre-service PE teachers and student-athletes, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to support their professional development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We aimed to better understand longitudinal physical activity experiences among initially active adolescents and to identify and describe distinct physical activity profiles. Methods: A sample of 23 physically active participants [52% female; mean age = 12.2 (0.6) years at study inception] were selected from the MATCH study to take part in this nested qualitative descriptive study. Participants were interviewed once a year for six years. Following individual-level analyses, profiles were identified based on similarity of longitudinal experiences. Results: Four profiles captured participants' experiences: Independents (those-who progressively seek activities that cater to their pursuit of autonomy); Multitaskers (those who participate in many different sports as an integral part of their lifestyle); Specialists (those who are dedicated to becoming the best they can be at one sport); Undecided (those who take part in physical activity to occupy time). Discussion: The exploration of longitudinal physical activity experiences led to the identification of distinct profiles that could be targets for tailored interventions, theory development, and participation models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study investigates the extent to which English voluntary sports clubs leveraged the London 2012 Paralympic Games, and what impact leveraging had on the sports participation of people with disabilities (PwD) at clubs. Research methods: Realist evaluation was used to frame the research. An online questionnaire was administered to English clubs between 27 January 2018 and 8 April 2018. Four hundred and thirty-three clubs were included in the final analysis. Findings: Most clubs did not leverage the London 2012 Paralympics. Clubs that leveraged were more likely to have increased their PwD membership. Holding taster sessions was the most effective leveraging activity. Principal components analysis revealed two leveraging constraints: knowledge of disability, and resources to leverage. A one-way MANOVA revealed clubs from inclusively funded national governing bodies were more likely to be constrained by their limited knowledge of disability. Implications: This study suggests specific disability provision at clubs was important to the successful leveraging of the 2012 Paralympics for increased sport participation of PwD. The intention and capacity of the club to support leveraging were also important factors. Research contribution: This study produces empirical data on the role and effectiveness of clubs as sites for sport participation for PwD following the Paralympic Games. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To explore experiences of youth and their parents who responded to a leveraging initiative tied to a sport event. We examined participants' motivations, experiences engaging with the initiative, and continued involvement with a new sport. Research methods: Five parent–child pairs (n = 10) who participated in the event leveraging initiative (of a total of 35) agreed to participate in semi-structured interviews about their experiences with trying a new sport opportunity. Results and Findings: The initiative seemed relatively effective at encouraging youth to try a new sport but was lacking in terms of fostering continued participation in the sport. Drawing from the transtheoretical model of behavior change, our study revealed that to facilitate continued participation after initial engagement with a leveraging initiative; strategies, support, and resources should be dedicated to the program from the outset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relations between shyness and internalizing problems have been mainly explored at the individual level, with little known about its dynamics at the group level. This study aims to examine the mediating effect of individual-level sport engagement and the moderating effect of class-level sport participation in the relations between shyness and internalizing problems. The participants were 951 children attending primary and middle school from grade 3 to grade 7 (Mage = 11 years, 509 boys) in urban areas of China. Cross-sectional data were collected using self-report assessments. Multi-level analysis indicated that (1) shyness was positively associated with internalizing problems; (2) sport engagement partially mediated the relations between shyness and internalizing problems; and (3) class sport participation was a cross-level moderator in the mediating relations between shyness, sport engagement, and internalizing problems. Shy children in classes with a higher level of sport participation tend to have less sport engagement and more internalizing problems than those in classes with a lower level of sport participation. These findings illuminate implications from a multi-level perspective for shy children's adjustment in a Chinese context. The well-being of shy children could be improved by intervening in sport activity, addressing both individual engagement and group dynamics, such as class participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preterm born individuals have an increased risk for mental health problems. Participation in club sport is associated with better mental health but the causal direction is unclear. It is not known whether this association could also be found in preterm children. Data from term born (N = 10,368), late preterm (N = 630), and very to moderately preterm born (N = 243) children from the Millennium Cohort Study at the ages of 3, 5, 7, 11, and 14 years were used. Longitudinal associations between the parent-reported Strengths and Difficulties questionnaire (SDQ) and club sport participation (days per week) were analysed using multigroup structural equation modelling, adjusting for gender, maternal depression, parental education; motor problems and attrition were controlled for. Multi-group structural equation modelling showed that children with more peer relationship problems, emotional symptoms, conduct problems or hyperactivity-inattention were less likely to participate in club sport at subsequent assessment time points. More days with club sport participation was associated with lower levels of emotional symptoms and peer relationship problems but not conduct problems or hyperactivity-inattention at subsequent ages. Results were similar in all gestational age groups. Club sport participation predicts lower levels of peer relationship and emotional problems in subsequent waves while it is also predicted by lower levels of emotional problems, peer relationship problems, conduct problems and hyperactivity-inattention in preceding waves. Since no differences in the relationship between SDQ subscales and club sport participation were seen with regard to gestational age groups, club sport should be encouraged in all children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sports talent detection is an attempt to find children who have the potential to become athletes but are not currently involved in sports through a series of tests. The aim of this research is to determine the characteristics of the distribution of children's sports talents in Payakumbuh City, West Sumatra Province. From this research, information was obtained on the anthropometric profile, physical abilities and movement coordination of each child. Apart from that, it was found that there were differences in the movement coordination abilities of children who had not and had participated in sports (training in clubs) after sports talent detection was carried out. This research involved 750 children (486 boys, 264 girls) aged 7-12 years in Payakumbuh City, West Sumatra, Indonesia. The talent detection instrument used in this research is the Sekora TID which was adopted from the SportKompas test battery. To see the impact of implementing talent detection, researchers conducted a survey using a Google form which was distributed to all test participants. Surveys were conducted to monitor children who had participated in sports as confirmed by teachers and parents. The results of the study provide information that there is no significant difference in the anthropometry of men and women (p>0.05), but a significant difference is seen in age (p

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on older adults' perceived health and well-being according to different types of participation in sport and physical activity by gender and region. A survey was implemented during the first COVID-19 lockdown in Australia (June 2020) and information collected on demographics, sport and physical activity patterns pre-COVID-19, and health and well-being outcomes during lockdown and compared to 1 year earlier. During COVID-19 lockdown, older adults who participated in both club sport and informal activities had significantly better general health, physical health, and resilience than those who participated solely in a single setting. Those participating in both team and individual activities reported better general well-being. Older adults who were active in a range of settings and modes had improved health and well-being. Social support is especially important for older adults to become and remain active. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mega-sport events are frequently criticized for excessive commercialization and sustainability concerns. By contrast, non-mega sport events (NMSEs) offer more cost-effective, locally suitable, and socially sustainable benefits. To understand the lasting influence of NMSEs on local sport participation, we constructed a research model based on systems theory and integrated with youth and grassroots sport development legacies into a trickle-down effect model to examine their mediating roles. In the context of the National Sports Festival, an annual Japanese sport competition, we surveyed sport and government officials (N = 158) on the legacies of youth and grassroots sport development, sport infrastructure, sport inspiration, and sport participation. The findings indicate both sport infrastructure and sport inspiration legacies have positive indirect effects on sport participation legacy through grassroots sport development legacy. This study adds new insights on the importance of NMSEs, identifying grassroots sport development legacy as a mediating mechanism that facilitates sport participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Informal sport is a growth area of sport participation but there has been limited examination of how informal and unstructured forms of participation may contribute to health outcomes that are important for public health. This article aims to address the current lack of data examining the health outcomes associated with informal sport participation and consider the potential role of informal sport within efforts to promote healthier communities through sport. The article seeks to broaden understanding of how informal sport participation can contribute to health outcomes, particularly with regard to increasing physical activity and enhancing mental health and social connection. The article discusses the findings of an Australian mixed-method study that draws on observation, survey, interview and focus group data to examine the prospective health and social benefits of informal sport participation for adults. The findings demonstrate that informal sport participation can contribute to physical and mental health outcomes and facilitate social connection. Analysis of the observation data enabled an examination of the economic value of informal sport in relation to the health benefits it affords. The study provides valuable evidence of the value of informal sport for enhancing community health and broadens understanding of how sport can be utilized as a health promotion resource. The article concludes by suggesting that through leveraging existing infrastructure and the self-organizing aspects of informal sport, local government and health stakeholders can harness its potential to improve public health outcomes and address health inequities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic introduced different ways of engaging with youth sport and physical activity (SPA). These different ways of engaging might have affected perceptions of value for such experiences. As such, guided by Social Ecology Theory and the Disconfirmation Paradigm, we explore families' anticipated post-pandemic perceptions of value from youth SPA. All data were collected with families during the pandemic, in 2021. Interviews with families and youth sport providers informed questionnaires administered to 550 families in Ontario. The survey assessed the families' perceived value of different ways of engaging in youth SPA after the pandemic is over. Results provide insights for how youth sport providers can better recruit and retain participants in post-pandemic recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical activity in type of sport participation is well-known for its enormous benefit for mental health, affecting in better mood and improved quality of life. However, knowledge of how sport participation is associated with psychological status and life satisfaction during adolescence is insufficient. This study aims to explore sport participation in a university-based sample of youths, and to analyze how it correlated with mental health and life satisfaction. A total of 495 university students were recruited. The instruments included demographic characteristics questionnaire and previously validated measures such as Sport Participation (SLIM-18), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), as well as The Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) questionnaires. The research results observed that students’ sports participation and perception of stress were fall into the moderate category with percentage of 77.2% and 70.3, respectively. While life satisfaction was fall into neutral category (70.7%). The differences in sports participation and stress were significantly different (p<0.05) between genders, but not with life satisfaction (p>0.05). Sports participation was negatively correlated with perceived stress (p<0.05), but positively related to life satisfaction (p<0.01), while perceived stress was negatively associated with life satisfaction (p<0.01). Sports participation plays a crucial role in reducing mental health problems and improving psychological well-being of students during their university time. It also positively promotes higher life satisfaction and better physical as well as mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Narrative reviews indicate psychological and social benefits of sport participation for the ageing population. However, no quantitative synthesis of quantitative studies on this topic has been conducted yet. We evaluated the magnitude and heterogeneity of the effects of sport participation on psychosocial outcomes for middle-aged and older adults (>35 years). Ten databases were searched in July 2020. Quantitative studies (k = 25) of middle-aged and older adults, measuring at least one psychosocial outcome of sport participation were included. Multilevel meta-analysis showed that the association between sport participation and psychosocial outcomes was small, yet significant. Moderation analyses revealed that the pooled effect differed according to outcome type; small to moderate associations were observed for social, positive psychological, perceived physical, and cognitive outcomes, but not for negative psychological outcomes. Risk of bias, assessed using the QualSyst tool, indicated low quality of evidence. Our findings suggest that sport participation is associated with multiple psychosocial benefits for middle-aged and older adults that appear invariant across participant-related and sport-related characteristics. We found no evidence of publication bias, but studies were underpowered and rated as low quality. Our review provides quantitative evidence for the psychosocial benefits of sport participation for adults, complementing existing qualitative research on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the positive health effects of leisure-time physical activity (LTPA), youth is an important life stage to promote lifelong LTPA. However, the stability of LTPA over the life course is low, and specific predictors of LTPA in youth for lifelong activity have some shortcomings, e.g. neglecting the interacting factors of LTPA within individuals. Therefore, from a person-oriented approach, patterns of LTPA behaviour in youth considering time- and context-related aspects and their relationships with lifelong LTPA were investigated. Life course data from n = 1519 Swiss inhabitants aged between 25 and 76 years were recorded retrospectively using a validated questionnaire (CATI method). Latent profile analyses were used to find the optimal profile solution and for the association with lifelong LTPA auxiliary conditional effect models (controlled for age) were applied. Six distinct patterns emerged. Overall, mostly inactive youth are also the least active in adulthood, whereas several other patterns are associated with a mainly continuous LTPA throughout adulthood. More precisely, multiple constellations in youth occurred to be physically active in at least 80% of the years in adulthood: (1) early starters regarding LTPA in a rather self-organised setting but not with many different LTPAs; (2) late entrants with a variety of different activities and organisational settings; or (3) a high expression in every variable investigated. Consequently, there is not just one type of LTPA behaviour in youth linked to lifelong activity, which indicates that certain aspects of LTPA in youth can be compensated by each other. Implications for LTPA promotion can be derived. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social exclusion - in sports as well as in all other areas of life - is linked to low socioeconomic status, poverty, unemployment, and low educational attainment. This means that disadvantaged social groups are permanently trapped in a lifestyle lacking physical exercise. In a broader sense, social exclusion from sports activities affects a much wider social spectrum, including groups that suffer disadvantages based on gender, age, place of residence, or disability [Spaaij, R., Farquharson, K., & Marjoribanks, T. (2015). Sport and social inequalities. Sociology Compass, 9(5), 400-411. https://doi.org/10.1111/soc4.12254]. In Southern, Central, and Eastern Europe, a smaller fraction of society has the opportunity to be active regularly, while the majority are left out. Based on Bourdieu's theory on capital and habitus our paper aims to find out what demographic and socialisation factors, as well as how the socio-economic status and the student habitus play roles in student sport activity in five Central and Eastern European countries. Our analysis is based on the database of the questionnaire survey carried out among students in the examined region (PERSIST 2019, N = 2005). Our results show that although students with a higher social status pursue sport more regularly and are more likely to pursue a sport in clubs, gender, habitus, the parental sporting environment, and sporting friends are the main factors that play a positive role in their regular participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research has identified barriers to sport participation among girls and women from systemically oppressed groups (e.g., Black, Indigenous, low-socioeconomic status). However, relatively little is known about the effectiveness of programs designed to ameliorate or remove those barriers and influence girls' attitudes and behaviors toward participation. To address this complexity and context-specific factors, Marra's theory (2015) suggests exploring participant experiences by focusing on how participants discuss program features related to interdependence, adaptation, and self-direction. Through focus group data collection, 30 participants from under-resourced, urban settings were asked to discuss their experiences within sport-fordevelopment 9-week programs. Several overarching themes framed their experience within this development program. Participants expressed a desire to be consulted on program choices and see their choices come to life within the program (adaptation). Racialized coaching staff were identified as an important element of programming when creating relationships with and between participants, but an element that must be effectively managed (interdependence). Participants identified a need to clearly define role parameters and sufficient training regarding program deliverables related to life skills (self-direction). Findings indicate that program administration should consider investment in preparation, coaching, and incorporating participant feedback into programming to maintain sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionWe aimed to better understand longitudinal physical activity experiences among initially active adolescents and to identify and describe distinct physical activity profiles.MethodsA sample of 23 physically active participants [52% female; mean age = 12.2 (0.6) years at study inception] were selected from the MATCH study to take part in this nested qualitative descriptive study. Participants were interviewed once a year for six years. Following individual-level analyses, profiles were identified based on similarity of longitudinal experiences.ResultsFour profiles captured participants' experiences: Independents (those who progressively seek activities that cater to their pursuit of autonomy); Multitaskers (those who participate in many different sports as an integral part of their lifestyle); Specialists (those who are dedicated to becoming the best they can be at one sport); Undecided (those who take part in physical activity to occupy time).DiscussionThe exploration of longitudinal physical activity experiences led to the identification of distinct profiles that could be targets for tailored interventions, theory development, and participation models.

Abstract Background Sports practice during adolescence is important to enhance bone development, although it may provide different effects depending on the mechanical impact present in the sport. Besides, resistance training (RT) may also induce bone changes directly (via muscle contractions) and indirectly (via myokines). However, there have been no studies analyzing the longitudinal influence of engaging in sport with and without added mechanical load. Thus, this study aims to analyze the combined effects of sports participation and resistance training on areal bone mineral density (aBMD) accrual in adolescent athletes participating in swimming and impact sports for 12-months. Methods This was a 12-month longitudinal study. The sample comprised 91 adolescents (21 females) aged 10 to 18 years, engaged in impact sports (basketball, tennis, track & field, baseball and gymnastics, n = 66) and non-impact sport (swimming, n = 25). The sample was divided according to resistance training participation: impact sports only (n = 45), impact sports + resistance training (n = 21), swimming-only (n = 17) and swimming + resistance training (n = 8). aBMD and soft tissues were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Generalized linear models analysis was used for the resistance training (RT) x type of sport interaction in predicting aBMD changes overtime, adjusting for maturation, sex and baseline aBMD. Results After 12-months, all groups showed a significant increase in aBMD, except for the swimming groups (regardless of resistant training), which showed a significant loss in spine aBMD (-0.045 [-0.085 to -0.004] g/cm2 in swimming-only and − 0.047 [-0.073 to -0.021] g/cm2 in swimming + RT). In comparisons between groups, only swimming + RT group, compared with swimming-only group presented higher upper limbs aBMD (0.096 g/cm2 [0.074 to 0.118] in swimming + RT vs. 0.046 [0.032 to 0.060] g/cm2 in swimming only; p

Abstract Background Physical activity behaviours are known to be highly correlated. Adolescents who participate in one type of physical activity (e.g., physical education) have a greater likelihood of participating in other physical activities (e.g., organized sports); however, little research has examined participation rates in various physical activity behaviours concurrently. This study identified longitudinal physical activity profiles among secondary school aged youth in Ontario, Canada. Methods We used data from the COMPASS Study, a school-based prospective cohort study of adolescents in Canada. Using a repeated measures latent class analysis, Ontario students who participated in grade 9 PE in 2015-16 were analysed through to 2018-19 (n = 1,917). Latent classes were defined by: PE participation, guideline adherence (≥ 60 min/day of moderate to vigorous activity over the last 7 days), and sport participation (varsity, community, and/or intramural). Multinomial logistic regression models were used to examine associations between latent class membership and student characteristics. Results Three distinct latent classes were identified for females and four were identified for males. These classes were: (1) Guidelines (high probability of guideline adherence; females: 44%; males: 16%), (2) PE & Sports (high probability of PE and sport participation; females: 33%; males: 43%), (3) Guidelines & Sports (high probability of guideline adherence and sport participation; females: 23%; males: 23%;), and (4) Inactive (low probability of all physical activity indicators; males: 18%). Strength training, sleep, and English grade were associated with class membership among females. Ethno-racial identity, weekly spending money, strength training, and English and math grades were associated with class membership among males. Conclusions Findings suggest that latent physical activity profiles differ by sex. Guideline adherence was the most common class among females, indicating high levels of independent physical activity, whereas PE & Sport participation was the most common class among males, indicating greater tendency towards organized activities. Additionally, a substantial number of male students were not engaging in any physical activity. Participation in both PE and sports did not necessarily lead to meeting physical activity guidelines, highlighting that these activities alone may not be providing sufficient levels of physical activity that align with current recommendations for Canadian youth.

Both actual motor competencies (AMC) and perceived motor competencies (PMC) play an important role in motor development research and children's physical and psychological development. PMC refer to children's perceptions of their motor competencies. To assess the PMC of first and second grade children (aged 6-9 years), the SEMOK-1-2 instrument was developed. The instrument is aligned to the validated MOBAK-1-2 instrument which assesses AMC in the competence areas "object movement" and "self-movement" Accounting for possible reading diffculties in younger children, the motor tasks and answer options were illustrated and explained verbally. The purpose of this study was to test and validate the SEMOK-1-2 instrument and investigate the associations between the constructs AMC, PMC and physical activity (PA), whereby PA was measured by the participation in team and individual sports. Data from N = 404 pupils in the German-speaking part of Switzerland from first and second grades (M= 7.8 years, SD = 0.69, 49% boys) were analyzed. Confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to test the factorial validity of the SEMOK-1-2 instrument. Structural equationmodels were used to investigate the association between the constructs. The analyses confirmed a two-factor structure with the factors PMC "object movement" and PMC "self-movement", corresponding to the factors existing in the MOBAK-1-2 instrument. Latent correlations between AMC factors and the corresponding PMC factors were r = 0.79 for "object movement" and r = 0.76 for "self-movement". Associations with external criteria and covariates, such as sex, were associated with both AMC and PMC. Analyses also revealed that children who participated more often in individual and team sports showed higher levels in both AMC and PMC. The confirmation of the two-factorial structure of the SEMOK-1-2 instrument and the associations between AMC and PMC as well as external criteria indicate construct and criterion validity. The SEMOK-1-2 instrument can be economically utilized for assessing PMC and is also suitable for the monitoring of PMC in the context of Physical Education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sports practice during adolescence is important to enhance bone development, although it may provide different effects depending on the mechanical impact present in the sport. Besides, resistance training (RT) may also induce bone changes directly (via muscle contractions) and indirectly (via myokines). However, there have been no studies analyzing the longitudinal influence of engaging in sport with and without added mechanical load. Thus, this study aims to analyze the combined effects of sports participation and resistance training on areal bone mineral density (aBMD) accrual in adolescent athletes participating in swimming and impact sports for 12-months. Methods: This was a 12-month longitudinal study. The sample comprised 91 adolescents (21 females) aged 10 to 18 years, engaged in impact sports (basketball, tennis, track & field, baseball and gymnastics, n = 66) and non-impact sport (swimming, n = 25). The sample was divided according to resistance training participation: impact sports only (n = 45), impact sports + resistance training (n = 21), swimming-only (n = 17) and swimming + resistance training (n = 8). aBMD and soft tissues were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Generalized linear models analysis was used for the resistance training (RT) x type of sport interaction in predicting aBMD changes overtime, adjusting for maturation, sex and baseline aBMD. Results: After 12-months, all groups showed a significant increase in aBMD, except for the swimming groups (regardless of resistant training), which showed a significant loss in spine aBMD (-0.045 [-0.085 to -0.004] g/cm2 in swimming-only and − 0.047 [-0.073 to -0.021] g/cm2 in swimming + RT). In comparisons between groups, only swimming + RT group, compared with swimming-only group presented higher upper limbs aBMD (0.096 g/cm2 [0.074 to 0.118] in swimming + RT vs. 0.046 [0.032 to 0.060] g/cm2 in swimming only; p < 0.05) and whole body less head (WBLH) aBMD (0.039 [0.024 to 0.054] g/cm2 in swimming + RT vs. 0.017 [0.007 to 0.027] g/cm2 swimming-only; p < 0.05). Conclusion: Despite the significant gain in aBMD in all groups and body sites after 12-months, except for the spine site of swimmers, the results indicate that participation in RT seems to improve aBMD accrual in swimmers at the upper limbs and WBLH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This contribution addresses the development of educational and financial inequality in sport participation in the Netherlands over the course of the COVID-pandemic. More specifically, we deal with the issue whether increased educational and financial inequality during the COVID-pandemic is temporary or becomes permanent after relaxation of the COVID-measures. We expected lower educated and people with financial problems to have less resources to bounce back to sport participation or to continue sport participation in sport over the course of the COVID-pandemic. To test our expectations, we performed multinominal logistic regression analyses on longitudinal data from the Dutch LISS-panel (n = 1.157). Our results confirmed that higher educated more often bounced back in their sport participation after COVID. Lower educated and people with financial problems were more likely to completely dropout. Our main conclusion is that educational and financial inequality in sport participation further increased after relaxation of the COVID-measures. This study enhances the understanding of the long-term impact of the COVID-pandemic on inequality in sport participation, and that might lead to more intensified sport promotion policies. Ongoing attention of policymakers for vulnerable groups is required to tackle social inequality in sport participation enlarged by the COVID-pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Educación Física y Ciencia is the property of Universidad Nacional de La Plata and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Physical activity behaviours are known to be highly correlated. Adolescents who participate in one type of physical activity (e.g., physical education) have a greater likelihood of participating in other physical activities (e.g., organized sports); however, little research has examined participation rates in various physical activity behaviours concurrently. This study identified longitudinal physical activity profiles among secondary school aged youth in Ontario, Canada. Methods: We used data from the COMPASS Study, a school-based prospective cohort study of adolescents in Canada. Using a repeated measures latent class analysis, Ontario students who participated in grade 9 PE in 2015-16 were analysed through to 2018-19 (n = 1,917). Latent classes were defined by: PE participation, guideline adherence (≥ 60 min/day of moderate to vigorous activity over the last 7 days), and sport participation (varsity, community, and/or intramural). Multinomial logistic regression models were used to examine associations between latent class membership and student characteristics. Results: Three distinct latent classes were identified for females and four were identified for males. These classes were: (1) Guidelines (high probability of guideline adherence; females: 44%; males: 16%), (2) PE & Sports (high probability of PE and sport participation; females: 33%; males: 43%), (3) Guidelines & Sports (high probability of guideline adherence and sport participation; females: 23%; males: 23%;), and (4) Inactive (low probability of all physical activity indicators; males: 18%). Strength training, sleep, and English grade were associated with class membership among females. Ethno-racial identity, weekly spending money, strength training, and English and math grades were associated with class membership among males. Conclusions: Findings suggest that latent physical activity profiles differ by sex. Guideline adherence was the most common class among females, indicating high levels of independent physical activity, whereas PE & Sport participation was the most common class among males, indicating greater tendency towards organized activities. Additionally, a substantial number of male students were not engaging in any physical activity. Participation in both PE and sports did not necessarily lead to meeting physical activity guidelines, highlighting that these activities alone may not be providing sufficient levels of physical activity that align with current recommendations for Canadian youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to understand how hierarchical leisure constraints prohibited sport participation and influenced sport preferences during individuals' adolescent years, and how these constraint effects may change during their early twenties. A sequential explanatory mixed methods design was employed to (1) identify general changes in constraint effects on participation and then to (2) better understand how sport preferences may be impacted by these constraint effects. A sample (n=117) of female (n=36) and male (n=81) Georgia residents between the ages of 20-25 participated in the study. Twelve of the participants were interviewed following their completion of the online questionnaire. Survey data were analyzed using two-tailed dependent sample t-tests, while the interviews were analyzed through a reflective thematic analysis. Findings from analyses suggest that interpersonal and structural constraints are likely to become slightly more difficult to negotiate as individuals transition from adolescence into young adulthood and that their sport participation choices and overall sport preferences are unlikely to change significantly. In situations where sport preference and participation changes occur, individuals' changes often reflect their ability to relate to their new sport or sports through prior skills or knowledge that could be carried over from their adolescent sport participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study examined whether sport participation in preschool was related to executive functioning (EF) and academic outcomes (i.e., math, language, literacy) in the fall and spring of kindergarten, as well as whether EF in the fall of kindergarten mediated the relation between sport participation in preschool and academic outcomes in the spring of kindergarten. The sample was drawn from a state-funded prekindergarten program evaluation (n = 120 children; mean age at baseline = 57.63 months, female = 47%, mean monthly family income = $1636.92). Parents reported on child sport participation in the spring of the child's preschool year. Children were directly assessed on EF and academic achievement in the fall and spring of kindergarten. Results revealed that sport participation in preschool only predicted literacy in the spring of kindergarten. There was no evidence that EF mediated the relation between sport participation and academic outcomes. Implications and future directions are discussed. Highlights: Preschool sport participation may predict specific academic skills in kindergarten. Executive functioning did not mediate the relation between sport and academic skills. Varied conceptualizations of sport may inform relations between sport and cognition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]