Perceptions of success among South African soccer players: an exploratory study

Abstract

This paper evaluates and describes themes surrounding the subjective perceptions of success in players and coaches at a professional South African soccer club. Literature around this topic is limited, particularly concerning the qualitative understandings of South African sportsmen and women, providing ample motivation for this investigation. Semi-structured interviews about success were conducted with professional (n=11) and academy (n=12) players and questionnaires completed by coaches (n=5). This information was coded, drawing out and comparing themes amongst the players, coaches and literature in this field. Results suggest a number of perceptions, as compared with success as an achievement and in the attainment of future goals, therefore success as a likely outcome.


Keywords: Soccer, Success, Professional, South Africa


South African Journal for Research in Sport, Physical Education and Recreation Vol.26(2) 2004: 17-31