Youth experiences of a rural South African sport development programme

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to explore the youth experiences of a rural South African sports development programme to understand how and why the youth in rural South Africa experienced the sports development programme the way they did. This study followed a qualitative, descriptive research design. This study was grounded in a theoretical framework based on youth developmental experiences through sport (YDETS). The framework emanated from a positive youth development (PYD) framework and self-determination theory (SDT). Purposive sampling and arts-informed methods including drawings and photovoice combined with semi-structured interviews were applied for data construction. Qualitative data analysis computer software, ATLAS.ti (v.8.4.15), was used, and semiotic visual data analysis, photovoice data analysis, thematic data analysis and member reflection were employed as methods for the data analysis. The findings in this study revealed the potential of the Dreamfields sports development programme to enhance and develop the personal and social development skills of the youth. However, the sports development programme did not automatically produce positive results; instead, positive experiences associated with the programme were related to a combination of factors and contextual assets, such as the school environment, parental involvement and supportive teachers and coaches. Furthermore, the findings highlighted several adverse experiences and negative outcomes associated with the sports programme. These outcomes included physical injuries, social exclusion and negative interactions with peers, teachers and coaches. Despite structural inequity and socio-economic challenges experienced by the youth in rural communities, the findings in this study suggest that rural youth are a heterogeneous group of individuals with aspirations, resilience and the determination to overcome their challenges and succeed.