Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyze the motives for participation of young soccer players and the influence of age/competitive category, training hours and relationship with coaches. Participants were 734 boys, aged 8 to 16 years, and in different competitive categories. Subjects responded a Sociodemographic Questionnaire and the Questionnaire of Motives for Participation by Gill et al. (1983). The last presented a factorial structure and reliability that were adequate to assess motives for soccer practice in children. Motives related to Friendship/Peers and Enjoyment/Socialization were rated higher by participants. Age/competitive category, training hours/week and relationship with the coach significantly influenced the importance given by the young athletes to the different participation motives and should be considered in order to maintain levels of sport practice.