Sports motivation in Chilean rugby players: impact of occupational statusSports motivation in Chilean rugby players: impact of occupational status

Introduction: Sports motivation plays a key role in long-term adherence and athletes' commitment. In the context of rugby, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation may vary depending on individual factors such as occupational status. Objective: To examine the relationship between motivation dimensions and sports adherence in Chilean rugby players, considering occupational status as a moderating factor. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 280 rugby players from 12 regions of Chile. The Sport Motivation Scale (SMS-28) was used to evaluate intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, and amotivation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, ANOVA, and Pearson correlations. Results: Intrinsic motivation for experiencing sensations had the highest average score, followed by intrinsic motivation for achieving things. Identified regulation was significantly higher among students and workers compared to unemployed participants (p = 0.050). Introjected regulation showed significant differences across occupational status (p = 0.001), with higher levels among workers. Amotivation was negatively associated with sports participation, although no significant differences were observed between occupational groups (p = 0.419). Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of fostering intrinsic motivation to sustain sports participation in rugby players. Additionally, strengthening identified regulation may improve commitment, particularly among unemployed players. Reducing amotivation is crucial to prevent sports dropout.