The Role of Family and Social Support Systems in Shaping College Athlete Engagement in Sports

Abstract

The existing research study aimed to highlight the role of family, social, and institutional support systems in influencing male college athletes’ engagement and participation in sports. The present research study was conducted at Riphah International University, Faisalabad, using a quantitative method with simple survey approach. The research developed 3/ three objectives to examine the impact of family support on athlete engagement, assess how social support including peer and coach encouragement  affects participation, and evaluate institutional support in sustaining long-term sports involvement. A purposive sample of 120 male student-athletes actively participating in university sports programs were selected. Data were collected using a pre-validated, closed-ended questionnaire. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS Version 22, useing one-sample t-tests and linear regression techniques. Results revealed that family support significantly enhanced sports engagement (t(119) = 9.15, p = .001), social support positively predicted participation (β = 0.65, p = .001), and institutional support contributed to sustained engagement (β = 0.60, p = .001). These findings affirmed that strong and consistent support from family, peers, and institutions is essential for promoting active and continuous involvement in sports. The existing research study highlighted the need for integrated support strategies to nurture a positive sporting culture in higher education settings.

Keywords: Male athletes, Sports engagement, Family support and  Social support