Journals Information
International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences Vol. 13(3), pp. 518 - 525
DOI: 10.13189/saj.2025.130304
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Navigating Challenges and Motivations among Elite and Sub-Elite Collegiate Track and Field Athletes
Haashwein Moganan 1,*, Gunathevan Elumalai 1, Mohansundar Sankaravel 1, Wallapa Choeibuakaew 2, Rumi Iqbal Dowes 3
1 Faculty of Sport Science and Coaching, Sultan Idris Education University, Malaysia
2 Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Thaksin University, Thailand
3 Faculty of Sports, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Indonesia
ABSTRACT
This study investigates the motivational factors and challenges faced by elite and sub-elite collegiate track and field athletes in Malaysia while balancing dual careers in academics and sports. The study included a group of 54 athletes aged 18鈥�26 years. The study employed a mixed-methods questionnaire to explore strategies for managing dual career demands, as well as support systems and demographic influences. Results revealed that time management emerged as the primary strategy for both elites and sub-elites, underscoring a systemic reliance on self-regulation in the absence of institutionalized support. Gender disparities were notable, with elite females reporting significant challenges compared to males, suggesting socio-cultural and structural inequities. While family and coach support were crucial motivators, academic institutions played a minimal role, with only elite athletes leveraging lecturer support. Demographic trends revealed that higher educational attainment among elite athletes did not alleviate their struggles, exposing gaps in Malaysia's dual career policies. The findings indicate that both elite and sub-elite athletes primarily depend on time management as their fundamental approach, highlighting a systemic dependence on self-regulation due to a lack of strong institutional support systems.
KEYWORDS
Dual-Career (DC), Track and Field, Elite Athletes, Sub-Elite Athletes
Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Haashwein Moganan , Gunathevan Elumalai , Mohansundar Sankaravel , Wallapa Choeibuakaew , Rumi Iqbal Dowes , "Navigating Challenges and Motivations among Elite and Sub-Elite Collegiate Track and Field Athletes," International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences, Vol. 13, No. 3, pp. 518 - 525, 2025. DOI: 10.13189/saj.2025.130304.
(b). APA Format:
Haashwein Moganan , Gunathevan Elumalai , Mohansundar Sankaravel , Wallapa Choeibuakaew , Rumi Iqbal Dowes (2025). Navigating Challenges and Motivations among Elite and Sub-Elite Collegiate Track and Field Athletes. International Journal of Human Movement and Sports Sciences, 13(3), 518 - 525. DOI: 10.13189/saj.2025.130304.