RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MOTIVATION, EXPECTED SPORTS PERFORMANCE AND PERCEIVED HEALTH STATUS OF ATHLETES IN AMBROSE ALLI UNIVERSITY EKPOMA

This research explored the relationship between motivation, expected sports performance, and perceived health status among athletes at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma. The research utilized the surveys method through the use of questionnaires to gather data from a diverse sample of athletes within the university's sports teams. The findings of this research suggest that there is a strong relationship between motivation, expected sports performance, and perceived health status in athletes. Athletes who are highly motivated tend to have higher expectations for their performance, and those who perceive their health as optimal are more likely to perform well. Motivation appears to be the driving force behind athletes’ goals, while perceived health status influences their confidence and ability to meet these expectations. These interrelationships emphasize the importance of addressing both psychological and physical well-being to enhance sports performance among athletes at Ambrose Alli University. Following these findings the study recommends among others, that coaches and sports administrators should focus on strategies that enhance motivation among athletes, through goal-setting, positive reinforcement, and creating a supportive environment that fosters a strong sense of purpose and drive; athletes should be encouraged to regularly assess and maintain their health and that universities and sports bodies should implement training programs that not only focus on physical skills but also on psychological aspects such as mental toughness, stress management, and building resilience.