Understanding the impact of MSHSAA by-law 3.15.3 on participation in Missouri high school athletics from 2008-2016

Abstract

This quantitative policy analysis seeks to understand the potential impact of MSHSAA By-Law, 3.15.3, the contact day policy, on sport participation in Missouri high school athletics. This policy increased the number of practices Missouri coaches could have with their athletes in the summer from 14 to 25 days. There was a concern from MSHSAA school leaders and coaches that this policy could impact single and multi-sport participation. This study seeks to determine if a relationship can be identified with the implementation of the policy and changes in participation. ... This quantitative policy analysis revealed a significant difference in single sport and multiple sport participation for the years prior to and following the implementation of MSHSAA By-Law 3.15.3. Research question two revealed that there has not been a significant change in the overall number of single sport and multi-sport participants. Research questions three and five revealed that urban school participation has significantly decreased following the implementation of the By-Law. Research questions four and six revealed that students that attend schools that offer ten or less sports have also seen a decrease in single and multi-sport participation. Finally, research question number seven revealed that multi-sport participation has decreased significantly in schools that do not offer 11-man football and has increased in schools that do offer 11-man football.