Attrition Survey
Conducted: January 2001, Victoria
The aim of this study was to identify the reasons why participants left calisthenics. The sample size comprised 189 respondents.
| Findings | Implications to Calisthenics |
| How did you hear about calisthenics? 70-80% joined because a friend referred them to it |
|
| Withdrawals were spread evenly over all grades of clubs | |
| Number of years involved in calisthenics: 37% withdraw in the first 1-2 years |
New club members need nurturing. Often it can be the initial years pupils can feel isolated from the more competent team members. |
| Perceived level of competency was not a contributing factor to withdrawal | |
| Best aspects of class Overwhelmingly the friendships |
|
| Worst aspects of class: Under 12′s: the work (25%) The coach (14%) Length of practise (14%) Repetition (14%) Over 12′s: Other team members (25%) |
Coaches and administrators to be mindful of peer interaction at class. Make them feel good in a group setting and they will come back. |
| Enjoyment at competitions 90% really like performing at competitions Only 9% of over 12′s stated that winning was important to them |
|
| Decision maker for withdrawal Largely the girl |
|
| Reasons for withdrawal: Over 12: 18% school work 18% loss of interest 8% coaches style was inappropriate 8% Injured 7% too time consuming Under 12’s |
See separate survey of student workload We had these girls and lost them. Some aspect of calisthenics did not suit them but they were still looking for artistic sports. Team cohesion would help keep them in the sport. |
