The Dual Drive: Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation in Collegiate Football

• Vivienne Dietrich, Psychology, Lafayette College

• Teomara Rutherford, College of Education, University of Delaware

This study explores the motivational factors of Division I collegiate football players through the lens of Self-Determination Theory, with a focus on intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Using a semi-structured interview protocol, 10 first-year male football players were verbally asked questions that prompted them to reflect on various factors of their athletic careers, including their participation, training, college recruitment process, and how they define passion and success in football. Responses underwent thematic analysis and were sorted into intrinsic and extrinsic themes following the creation of codes. Analyses revealed that extrinsic motivators, such as social influences, program prestige, and scholarships, were most frequently mentioned regarding athletic careers and training. A majority of respondents reported that although they were driven by extrinsic factors to begin their football career, their motivation to continue playing was predominantly intrinsic. Intrinsic motivators, such as athletic identity, team cohesion, and personal enjoyment, were most frequently reported regarding success and passion, with all respondents reporting that they were passionate about their sport and a majority defining success in football as personal. Findings suggest that athletes identify more frequently with extrinsic motivation in performance-related contexts, and more frequently with intrinsic motivation in players’ engagement and emotional connections to the sport. The study recognizes the importance of fostering team environments that support performance expectations and psychological needs in sports at the collegiate level.