Should young, low-expectancy athletes engage in non-sport tasks to foster a sense of belonging?

The assertion that young, low-expectancy athletes should not engage in non-sport tasks to foster a sense of belonging aligns with the understanding of how these athletes can best develop their skills and confidence. In sports psychology, fostering a sense of belonging typically comes through involvement in sport-related activities that build competence and connection with teammates.

Engaging in non-sport tasks may not directly contribute to their athletic development or help cultivated sports-specific camaraderie. Instead, opportunities to enhance skills, receive encouragement in a competitive context, and foster relationships through training and competition are more effective for these athletes. Such approaches can help build their self-efficacy and overall motivation while reinforcing their identity as athletes within a supportive environment.

Furthermore, emphasizing non-sport activities might inadvertently distract from their primary focus, which is to grow and succeed in their sport. Therefore, keeping engagement concentrated around their athletic skills and team dynamics is key to promoting a positive experience and sense of belonging in a sport setting.