Evaluating the psychosocial effects of the Northern Territory Institute of Sport (NTIS) High Performance Officiating Program (HPOP).

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of the 2021 Northern Territory Institute of Sport (NTIS) High Performance Officiating Program (HPOP) on five officials. The HPOP is designed to develop and support officials to aspire to and achieve high-level and international standards of officiating [1] through specialised training, mentorship, and resources to enhance their skills and performance in high-level officiating. At pre- and post-program, data were collected from each official and their mentor pertaining to official self-efficacy and resilience. Data were also collected on challenge and threat appraisals, physical and mental preparation, locus of control, and functional assertiveness subscales. Officials and mentors were also asked qualitative questions on resilience and self-efficacy. Visual analyses of graphed data, Reliable Change Indices (RCIs), and social validation data indicated reliable improvements in self-efficacy and resilience for three of the five officials. Changes were also observed in self-efficacy subscales (game knowledge, decision-making, pressure, and communication) although patterns varied between officials. Similarly, challenge and threat appraisals, physical and mental preparation, locus of control, and functional assertiveness demonstrated individualised patterns of change. Qualitative findings provided further support for the program's positive influence on self-efficacy and resilience. This research contributes valuable insights into the transformative effects of the NTIS High Performance Officiating Program on officials, emphasising notable improvements in self-efficacy and resilience.