Factors Influencing University Students’ Interest in Participating in Hockey

Abstract

This study aims to comprehensively examine the factors influencing university students’ interest in participating in hockey as a team sport within the higher education context. Employing a qualitative approach through a literature study, this research synthesizes recent theoretical and empirical findings related to student sport participation, motivation, self-efficacy, social support, environmental conditions, and structural constraints. Relevant national and international publications from reputable academic sources were systematically reviewed and analyzed using content analysis to identify dominant themes and patterns that explain students’ interest in hockey. The findings indicate that students’ interest in hockey is shaped by a complex interaction between internal and external factors. Internal factors include intrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, sport preferences, and positive emotional experiences, which play a central role in fostering sustained engagement. External factors such as social support from peers and institutions, availability of facilities, campus sport culture, and institutional policies significantly influence the development of interest. However, the study also reveals critical barriers, including limited sports infrastructure, perceived high risk of injury, lack of competitive opportunities—particularly in the Indonesian context—and insufficient athlete welfare support, all of which may reduce students’ willingness to participate despite strong internal motivation. Overall, this study highlights that students’ interest in hockey is multidimensional and context-dependent. The findings provide an integrated conceptual understanding that can inform future empirical research and support the development of more inclusive, supportive, and sustainable university sport policies.