Trends in sports participation of young basketball athletes in Santa Catarina

ABSTRACT

This study examined the trends of participation and retention among young basketball athletes in Santa Catarina from 2012 to 2022. Using a quantitative and descriptive approach, data from the Catarinense Basketball Federation, involving 2978 athletes, were analyzed using multilevel regression models. The results showed that only 7% of men and 6% of women, which compete in the under-12, under-13, and under-15, categories attained adult competition. Athletes from the under-12 competitions had a higher probability of entering the adult category, with geographical variations highlighting differences in success rates. This study provides crucial information to improve the development opportunities for young basketball athletes in Santa Catarina.

Keywords:
Basketball; Sports participation trend; Retention; Young athletes