The source of sport confidence among secondary school athletes in Hong Kong

The aim of the present study was to examine the source of sport confidence among secondary crosscountry athletes. Ninety four athletes (47 males and 47 females) with a mean age of 15.26 (S.D. = 1.87) completed the Sources of Sport-Confidence Questionnaire (SSCQ) after a major competition. It was found that athletes perceived that ‘‘social support’’ was the major source of sport confidence. Significant gender difference was observed that males perceived ‘‘demonstration of ability’’ as more important. Also, significant age differences were found that younger athletes perceived that ‘‘mastery’’ was more important, whereas, older athletes believed in ‘‘ability’’. The findings of this study allow coaches to develop confidence among young athletes.