Factors influencing dropout among Singapore female youth athletes at the elite level

Despite the increased in support given to nurture elite athletes in Singapore, it has been observed that more female youth athletes have decided to stop their pursuit at the elite level over the past few years. However, little is known about the experiences of these athletes and the reasons for dropping out from the national team. This study investigated the factors influencing the decision to dropout at the elite level among female youth athletes. A series of retrospective, semi-structured and open-ended interviews were conducted with 10 former elite female youth athletes. All interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The qualitative data were then analysed using thematic analysis to identify common themes. Five prominent themes that explain the discontinuation from elite sport participation and the national team emerged from the data: “conflict of interests”, “relationship with team”, “motivation and performance” and “relationship with organisation”. From the findings, it is evident that dropout among female youth athletes involves an interplay the different factors that can be observed at the individual, social and environmental level. This study also reveals that social and environmental agents have relatively significant role in the decision to dropout compared to the individual. This study is important for relevant stakeholders (i.e. sports organisations) in ensuring better management such as improving the talent development system to facilitate athletes’ talent retention and develop a robust pipeline of elite athletes to achieve podium success.Bachelor of Science (Sport Science and Management