Abstract:
The study was to find out whether athletes are groomed through intramural sports programme in University of Nigeria, Nsukka campus. To achieve the purpose of the study, six objectives with corresponding research questions were posed and three hypotheses postulated. The descriptive research design was used for the study. The instrument for data collection was a 38 item questionnaire (GAISP). Five experts in Health and Physical Education validated the instrument. Cronbach Alpha was used for test of reliability. The population of the study consisted of 234 subjects made up of 8 technical crew and 226 athletes out of which the responses of 213 (91%) were used for the analysis of data. Percentages and mean scores were used to answer research questions. While Chi-Square ( x2) statistics were used for testing of the hypotheses. The result of the study showed that: Starting, acceleration, and speed were accepted as techniques used in grooming athletes in races. Landing, take-off and approach running were accepted in jumps, while approach running, stance and release were equally accepted as the techniques in grooming athletes in throws. Visualization, mental imagery and tension management were the major psychological skills used in grooming athletes. Developing the spirit of teamwork, managing relationships, building good rapport, and adopting the habit of fair play were used in social skills. Gun/whistle, starting blocks and baton are the major equipment used in races. Whistle, measuring tape, and flags were accepted as the main jump equipment. While shot put, javelin stick and measuring tape are mainly used in throws. Appointing captains and their assistance, allowing athletes to lead in different warm-ups or drills, and explaining to athletes the importance of leadership development received positive responses than allowing them to control the teammates. While examination of physical ability is mainly used by technical crew to identify potential athletes for grooming. Based on major findings and conclusion, the technical crew should ensure the grooming of athletes on speed, flight and follow-through on races, jumps and throws respectively. While progressive muscle relaxation and to learn to accept defeat with cheerfulness and victory with humility should be emphasized during psychological and social grooming skills. The researcher recommended the provision of audiovisual equipment, and sport implements for proper grooming of athletes. The audiovisual equipment will provide feedback to the athletes and the technical crew so they can identify the errors in performance and take steps to correct such.
