Determinants of Basketball Project Disbandment and Player Dropout in Nekemte Town Basketball Project

Abstract

Basketball is most popular sport in the world, with various initiatives aimed at providing players with opportunities to contest each other and enhance their skills. In recent years, the issue of player dropouts and project disbandment has become a growing concern within the realm of sports and recreational activities. The aim of this study was to investigate the determinants of Basketball project disbandment and player dropouts in the Nekemte town Basketball projects. It was conducted in Nekemte town, East Wallaga zone, west Ethiopia, which is located 315 km west of Addis Ababa. The study utilized a mixed-methods research approach with a triangulation research design. The questionnaire and interviews were used to gather data from primary data sources. Using a census and purposive sampling technique the researcher selected a sample population of 112 respondents. The data analysis techniques for quantitative analysis was descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, factor analysis, and structural equation modeling. For qualitative data, thematic analysis was used. This study categorized key findings into internal, external, and player-related factors leading to project disbandment and player dropout. Internal factors include inadequate financial support and insufficient facilities and infrastructure with (100% agreement), lack of sponsorship and partnerships (97.4% agreement), and poor management and organizational structure (100% agreement). Player-related factors include competing commitments (86.8% agreement), friends quit (57.9% agreement), limited playing time (55% agreement), lack of motivation and passion (35% agreement), and life transitions (71% agreement). External factors encompass unsuitable training facilities, lack of support from parents and families (60% agreement), lack of qualified coaches (92.1% agreement), and minimal support from sports administrators (94.7% agreement). SEM analysis confirms the model's validity with a CMIN/df value of 2.172, GFI of 0.953, TLI of 0.93, and CFI of 0.966. The squared multiple correlation showed that 70.8% of the variance in player dropout is accounted for by project disbandment and player dropout. To address these challenges include ensuring access to adequate facilities and equipment (100% agreement), providing incentives for players and coaches (97.4% agreement), establishing communication channels (94.9% agreement), facilitating coaching and parent education (56.7% agreement), implementing structured player development programs, and encouraging community and sponsor participation (65.3% agreement). The study's correlation analysis shows a significant positive correlation (0.507**) between project disbandment and player dropout. By addressing these challenges and implementing suggested interventions, sports projects in Nekemte town can enhance sustainability and reduce player dropouts, contributing to the long-term success of basketball projects.