IMPACT OF EXTRINSIC AND INTRINSIC INCENTIVES ON THE PERFORMANCE OF ELITE TRACK AND FIELD ATHLETES IN NIGERIA

Abstract

The study investigated the impact of intrinsic and extrinsic motivations on the
performance of top track and field athletes in Nigeria. It especially looks at how
athletes' motivation, resilience, and performance results are impacted by monetary
rewards, non-monetary acknowledgment, personal fulfilment, and goal completion.
The study examines the motivational processes that link well-designed incentives to
consistently high performance, drawing on Self-Determination Theory and
Expectancy Theory. The subject is contextualized through real-world examples, such
as the Olympic incentive schemes and Nigeria's National Sports Festival. According
to the review's findings, intrinsic rewards are essential for promoting long-term
dedication and moral behaviour , even while extrinsic incentives might produce
temporary performance increases. The study suggests that incentive systems be
culturally responsive, that reward distribution be transparent, and that both incentive
types be integrated. These insights provide valuable guidance for coaches, sports
administrators, and policymakers seeking to enhance athlete motivation and
performance in competitive sports.