A Rasch model analysis of leadership potential among young athletes in Indonesia

Introduction: Leadership in contemporary sport was understood as a psychosocial capacity shaping team dynamics and long-term athlete development. However, empirical mapping of leadership potential among young athletes in developing contexts remained limited. Objective: This study aimed to analyze and map the leadership potential of young athletes in Indonesia using a Rasch measurement approach, examining its structure and differences based on gender, leadership activities, and organizational interest. Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed with 642 university athletes aged 17 to 20 years. The Youth Leadership Potential Scale, consisting of 23 Likert-type items, was adapted into Indonesian and administered online. Data were analyzed using the Rasch model to assess item fit, reliability, dimensionality, and person-item distribution. Results: The findings indicated excellent psychometric properties, with person reliability of 0.92, item reliability of 1.00, and internal consistency of 0.93. The scale demonstrated strong measurement precision and unidimensionality. The most challenging item concerned maintaining concentration under pressure, while conceptual knowledge of leadership roles was the easiest. Gender differences were not substantial. Higher leadership potential was associated with prior organizational experience, holding leadership positions, and a strong interest in campus organizations. Discussion: These findings aligned with contemporary perspectives emphasizing experiential learning and shared leadership rather than gender-based assumptions. Leadership potential is developed through active engagement in organizational and leadership activities, consistent with research highlighting the role of social participation and psychological readiness in shaping leadership capacity. Conclusions: Leadership potential among young athletes was a dynamic construct shaped more by experiential involvement than by gender. An inclusive and experience-based developmental ecosystem is essential to cultivate adaptive and resilient young leaders in sport and higher education.