Examining the Barriers of Myanmar Young People Participating in Competitive Sports

Abstract

This research explored the attitudes of young athletes and their parent on sports competitions, the barriers of young athletes to participate in competitions and the motivation that encouraged young people for sport participation and taking part in competitive sports. An issue that has been the declination of young people sport participation and taking part in sports competitions in Myanmar. Semi-structured and open-ended interviews were conducted with 12-17 years old five young athletes, three parents and five coaches from different sports via Skype and telephone. All interviews were transcribed and analyzed by using thematic analysis method. The research found out six elements: reinforcing the competitive manner for life, the place to show athletes ability, preventing young people from using illegal drugs, alcohol and tobacco, academic results, social recognition and improving motor skills when explore the attitudes of young athletes and parents on sports competitions. Following barriers such as trend of education, lack of confidence, paucity of female coach and female manager, plenty of interests and financial status of the family are preventing young people from being able to take part in sports competitions. Results were compared with existing literature review, and similarities and differences were discussed. Possible solutions to break down the barriers and promote young people sport participation in Myanmar were also discussed. Recommendation for further research and limitation of this research were also presented.

Key Words : young people, sports competitions, attitudes, barriers.