"Playing on" or "calling time"? retention and motivation for sport officials

Attrition is a key issue in sports officiating and has rightfully received extensive attention in the literature highlighting issues such as abuse and lack of perceived organizational support. However, few studies in comparison understand the reasons for officials to stay in their role (i.e., retention) and underlying motivation.

Current officials were recruited (n = 293) from multiple countries and sports (mainly soccer, rugby union, cricket, hockey) to complete an online questionnaire, focusing on sport motivation and reasons to continue officiating.

Based on the Sport Motivation II scale (SMS-II), officials report high Intrinsic and Identified modes of regulation. There were no differences between genders in any of the modes of regulation in SMS-II. Those that intend to continue reported higher levels of Intrinsic, Integrated and Identified than those that were unsure of continuing. Amotivation was significantly higher for those that were unsure of continuing and did not intend to continue, than those who did intend to continue. Results indicated professional level and soccer officials appear to exhibit higher levels of motivation. Personal Drive and Personal Challenge were the most prominent reasons to continue, whereas Money was the least selected reason.

This study provides important implications for officiating managers in the retention profiles of active officials, depending on various factors.