Factors That Affect The Performance Of Long-Distance Athletes In Some Selected Athletics Project In Kaffa Zone, South West Ethiopia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine factors that affect the performance of long-distance athletes with specific reference to some selected Kaffa zone athletics projects. For this purpose, the researcher reviewed the available literatures for theoretical, conceptual and empirical framework. The research design was descriptive survey and research method employs mixed research with triangulation design of quantitative and qualitative type of research with organizing and analyzing the data supported by mean, standard deviation, chart and tables. In this study trainees’, coaches, administrative bodies were participated and the total population were 124. In these research 120 trainees 3 coaches, 1 administrative body were selected using availability sampling technique. The researcher used primary sources of data to accomplish this study. Data gathering tools were questionnaire, interview, and observation. The data that collected through these multi-tools were analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively by triangulation method. The data collected through structured questionnaires and also analyzed in SPSS version 20.0 (mean and standard division). The major findings obtained from the multi method tools were: long distance running training practice environment needs critical attention, and the project has clear organization structure. Also, the findings revealed that the lack of training kits, facilities and equipment, lack of latest technological devices, lack using training principles, and trainees ‘nonscientific nutritional approach are the factors affecting athletes performance. The evaluation of participants on the project has standard (well-equipped) gymnasium for indoor training is below the average (m = 2.064± 0.45) and 17(13.7%) respondents replied medium, 98(79%) low, 9(7.3%) replied very low. In conclusion, the project lacks standard (well-equipped) gymnasium for indoor training. Therefore, training practice and application of training principles should be improved, coaches should give more time and space for training and practicing skills, standard facilities and equipment’s are required.