Ayobami Bukunmi MAKINDE

This study investigated the sociocultural factors influencing sport participation among female athletes in the University of Benin. The study specifically examined the relationship between family cultural background, family educational background, religion, socioeconomic status, and the participation of female students in sports. A descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. The population comprised female athletes from various faculties in the university, and a structured questionnaire was used to collect data. A total of 105 completed questionnaires were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Findings revealed that a majority of the respondents came from modern or mixed cultural backgrounds, families with tertiary educational qualifications, and predominantly Christian households. Family cultural background showed a weak and statistically insignificant relationship with sport participation, while family educational background demonstrated a stronger positive influence. Religion exhibited minimal restrictive effects, as most respondents reported that their faith does not hinder their involvement in sports. Socioeconomic status also showed a positive but moderate relationship with sport participation, with respondents from business and civil servant households participating more actively than those from farming backgrounds. The study concludes that improved awareness, supportive family structures, and inclusive institutional policies can enhance female participation in sports within the University of Benin. It recommends targeted sensitization programs, increased provision of female-friendly facilities, and sustained encouragement from families and the institution to promote gender- balanced sports involvement.