Factors affecting to participating in sports by undergraduates in the University system in Sri Lanka: with special reference to University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka

Abstract

The study describes the poor sport participation of undergraduates in the University of Kelaniya. It seems that students? sport participation has gradually reduced in the last few years. the researcher aimed to achieve three objectives of which key objective was ?to identifying the nature of sport participation by undergraduates in university of Kelaniya? and specific objectives were to recognize the relationship between distance from the residence and the place where sport is located and to recognize the relationship between past experience and the sport participation. Two hypotheses were used in the study: i) the distance negatively influence on sport participation and, ii) past experience positively affects sport participation. The researcher carried out an extensive literature review to provide a conceptual background of the study and to develop a conceptual model. Hypotheses were formulated accordingly. 100 sport participants were selected for the study using Stratified Simple Random sampling method and collected primary data via questionnaires. Meanwhile, secondary data were also associated. A set of findings was made based on the date analysis. Conclusion was made from the study after carrying out detailed scientific analysis of data. The distance shows a -0.422** relationship and past experience shows a 0.208* relationship. Based on the findings, recommendations were made to the relevant authorities and it is expected that these will benefit future researchers and interested parties in the field of study.