JSSF : Journal of Sport Science and Fitness
Vol. 12 No. 1 (2026): Journal of Sport Science and Fitness

Coaches’ Transformational Leadership and Athlete Motivation in University Team Sports

Femia Rahmahsari (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Mustika Fitri (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Syam Hardwis (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Hilmi Apriady (Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia)
Hutkemri Zulnaidi (Universiti Malaya)



Article Info

Publish Date
10 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background: Coaches’ transformational leadership plays an important role in shaping a positive psychological environment and enhancing athletes’ motivation in team sports. However, empirical studies examining this relationship among university team sport athletes remain limited, particularly in non-professional sports settings. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the influence of coaches’ transformational leadership on the motivation of university team sport athletes. Method: This study employed a quantitative correlational design with an ex post facto approach. The participants comprised 32 student-athletes from the Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia Hockey Club, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using the Differentiated Transformational Leadership Inventory (DTLI) and the Sport Motivation Scale II (SMS-II). Result: The findings revealed that coaches’ transformational leadership significantly influenced athletes' motivation (p < 0.05). The coefficient of determination (R²=0.488) indicated that transformational leadership explained 48.8% of the variance in athlete motivation. Conclusion: The study demonstrates that transformational leadership positively influences the motivation of university team-sport athletes. Coaches who provide inspiration, individualized support, and a clear vision may help strengthen athletes’ motivation and commitment within the team environment. These findings highlight the importance of applying transformational leadership approaches in university sports programs to support athlete development and performance. 

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jssf

Publisher

Subject

Other

Description

Journal of Sport Science and Fitness (JSSF) is an international, double-blind peer reviewed journal. It is published two times a year, on July and November. We do focus on publishing quality articles, therefore only 10 articles each issue of publication. JSSF considers submissions on any aspect of ...