Exploring the Role of Identity in Motivating Walking Netball Participants

This paper examines the experiences of participants (n = 12) on the England
Netball, ‘Walking Netball’ (WN) programme. Previous research has sought to
explore participant experiences on programmes similar to WN, suggesting
greater social engagement and an increase in desire for life were positive
consequences from participation. Semi structured interviews explored the
motivations held for participation in the programme with regards to social
identity and the affective consequence of participation. Four themes emerged
from data analysis; (1) WN as a form of physical activity, (2) collaborative
identity, (3) group inclusion, and (4) regulatory routine. Findings suggest that
participants on England Netball’s WN programme, are primarily motivated to
continue attending WN by the collective identity they experience through being
involved in the programme. Further research however on the construction of
collective group identity is required to further enable project funders and
deliverers in ensuring projects can effectively meet the motivations of their
participants.