The focus of this critical reflection is the significance of the volitional attribute of the self-determination theory in relation to sport performance. As opposed to external incentives, this theory points out the intrinsic propensity for personal growth and development in an environment that encourages these elements. The self-determination theory contains 5 separate theories that combine to define the concept of motivation and development. This paper aims attention at the organismic integration theory which describes motivational behaviour as a multidimensional concept that lies along a continuum with different levels of internalization. Amotivation is one end of the continuum that lacks motivation …show more content…
The 12-time All-star player won three Most Valuable Player awards in consecutive years and is praised for being the best passing and shooting forward in the history of the NBA. After shooting the last free throw in the state sectional tournament in his sophomore year of high school, Bird was interested and wanted to explore his capabilities by stating – “I decided that day to dedicate myself to being the best basketball player I could possibly be” (IBD News). This acknowledges Bird’s enjoyment and satisfaction from the activity and illustrates how hard he is willing to work to achieve his goal. The article also demonstrates the athlete’s motivation for personal growth and development by describing the robust training that Bird adopted – “going to the gym every morning at 6. Propping himself up on crutches, he shot 500 free throws daily. Discipline like that helped Bird hone his skills as a shooter, passer, rebounder, defender and floor leader” (IBD News). The athlete’s relatedness psychological need for his motivation and self-determination was also fulfilled as he noticed his fans and coach’s appreciation for his skills. When he jarred his back in the 1992 playoffs, Bird decided to go back on court despite the doctor’s orders and experienced the connection with the crowd as they acknowledged his great sport performance – “But he bolted back onto the court, electrifying the crowd. The Celtics won that round of the playoffs“ (IBD