DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN KINETICS AND SPORTS SCIENCE

Sports success is dependent primarily on genetic endowment in athletes with morphologic, psychologic, physiologic and metabolic traits specific to performance characteristics vital to their sport. Such genetically-endowed athletes must also receive optimal training to increase physical power, enhance mental strength, and provide a mechanical advantage. However, athletes often attempt to go beyond training and use substances and techniques, often referred to as ergogenics, in attempts to gain a competitive advantage. Pharmacological agents, such as anabolic steroids and amphetamines, have been used in the past, but such practices by athletes have led to the establishment of anti-doping legislation and effective testing protocols to help deter their use. Thus, many athletes have turned to various dietary strategies, including the use of various dietary supplements (sports supplements), which they presume to be effective, safe and legal.

In the absence of medical examinations, the change in behaviour and attitude may only be considered a possible way to the prevention of HIV/AIDS prevalence. The basic purpose of this study was to ascertain the knowledge and perception of HIV/AIDS risk behaviours among undergraduate students of the University of Benin, Benin city, Edo state. The study adopted the survey research design with a sample of one hundred undergraduate students that were randomly selected. Data was collected
with standardized instrument of questionnaire and was analyzed using percentage. Five research questions were raised to guide this study. Results of the study revealed that there is a high level of awareness on HIV/AIDS amongst students of the University of Benin. A proportion of the respondents still engage in risky acts like sharing of blades and clippers, risky sexual acts like Oral and anal sex. The study also reveal that the students were more informed about HIV/AIDS through billboards, posters and hand bills. It was recommended among others that more enlightenment campaigns should be organized on campus using the two-way
strategic approach (Inter-personal communication and the use of mass media). It was also suggested that sex education should be included in the curriculum of Nigerian tertiary institutions.

This study evaluated the need for effective policies as a panacea for sustainable hospitality and tourism industry in Edo State. It sought to determine the level of recognition of tourism development policies; benefits accruable from sustainable tourism
on stakeholders; the role of government in sustainable tourism; role of other stakeholders in sustainable tourism, and the issues affecting implementation of sustainable tourism policies. To guide the study, five (5) research questions were raised. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study was made up of 100 staffs of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism comprising departments as Policy Department, Partnership Department, Regulation and Standard
Department, Planning and Research Department, Human Resources and Admin (Finance and Account, Procurement), Edo Art Council Department. A sample size of 100 staffs of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism comprises the entire population, thus, making a census population. The instrument for the study was a self-constructed questionnaire titled “Evaluating The Need For Effective Policies As A Panacea For Sustainable Hospitality And Tourism Industry Questionnaire (ENEPPSHTIQ)”. The
instrument was validated by the researcher’s supervisor and two other experts in the Department of Human Kinetics and Sports Science, Faculty of Education, University of Benin. Cronbach Alpha statistics was used to establish the internal consistency of the
items. The reliability of index of 0.89 for the instrument was obtained. Data were analysed using percentages, mean and standard deviation. The findings showed that majority of the tourism staff indicated that there was moderate level of tourism recognition in development policies. There are several benefits of sustainable tourism on stakeholders. The government have a role to play in tourism sustenance in the state. The stakeholders have a role to play in sustainable tourism. There are issues affecting the implementation of sustainable tourism policies. It was concluded that measures should be taken to raise the recognition and public awareness of tourism in line with sound sustainable development policies. Government and other stakeholders should play their expected roles in sustaining tourism so that its inherent benefits can be felt by all and its negative effects on implementation eradicated. It was therefore recommended that government should formulate workable policies that could see to the effective collaboration of public private sector partnership and the implementation of sustainable tourism development.

This study investigated the influence of mental toughness as correlates of athletic performance among student athletes in the University of Benin, Benin City. The study adopted a correlation research design. Four research questions were raised and four
hypotheses were formulated. The population for this study consisted 243 student-athletes currently enrolled at the University of Benin. The sample size of this study is 121 student athletes. The multiple sampling procedure was used to select student athletes. The research instrument for the study was a structured questionnaire made up of two sections, section A and section B. To establish the validity of the instrument, it underwent a rigorous review process by experts in the field of sports psychology in the department of human kinetics and sports science of the University of Benin . Pearson product moment correlation coefficient was used with multiple regression analysis to analyze the hypotheses tested at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of this research revealed that athletes with higher mental toughness tend to better than others with lower mental toughness. Concentration was also found to improve sports performance among student athletes of the University of Benin. Athletes who are self confident in
their skills and abilities tend to perform better than others who do not posses self confidence. Mental toughness was also found to increase sports performance irrespective of gender. In conclusion, this research has provided valuable insights into the relationship between mental toughness and athletic performance among student athletes of the University of Benin. The
results support the idea that enhancing mental toughness can lead to improved sports viii performance. Concentration and self- confidence were also found to be critical factors in the performance of student athletes. The research design, which employed a correlation approach, allowed for the examination of these relationships. Recommendations were made for coaches, athletes, and sports authorities that mental toughness training should be incorporated into the regular training programme of student athletes. These programs can help athletes develop the mental skills required to enhance their performance. Concentration and Self-Confidence Workshops should be provided to athletes with opportunities to attend workshops and psychology sessions focusing on concentration and self-confidence. These sessions can assist in strengthening these crucial aspects of mental toughness. Future research can explore additional psychological factors and their impact on athletic performance. Such as motivation, resilience and emotional control, investigating the effectiveness of various mental toughness training methods would also be beneficial.

This study assessed the personal/emotional factors influencing Human Kinetics and sports science students participation in recreational activities in the University of Benin. Four research questions were raised to guide the study. The descriptive survey research method was adopted in carrying out this study. The population of this study consists of three hundred and six (306) students. The data was collected using the purposive simple random technique and a sample size of one hundred and fifty four (154) respondents was used for the study. The research instrument used for the study was a self-constructed questionnaire. The validity of the instrument was subjected to scrutiny and the test-retest reliability technique was used to ascertain its reliability. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation. The findings revealed that Personal and emotional factors influence students participation in recreational activities which include stress, anxiety, motivation, aggression, body image, personality, self-esteem, and self-confidence . In conclusion, students agreed that Personal and emotional factors can influence one's participation in recreational activities. It is recommended that these personal and emotional factors be taken into cognizance during daily activities as they determine students participation in recreation .

The purpose of this study was to find out influence of Psychological Ergogenic aids on the Sports Performance of University of Benin Athletes. The survey research design was adopted for this study. The population of the study comprised of the 504 registered athletes of the University of Benin. The simple size of this was 130 athletes of the University of Benin. The simple random sampling techniques was used for the selection of the sample. The instrument that was used for this study was a self-constructed questionnaire. The questionnaire is
made up of three parts, namely section A, B and C. The face and content validity of the instrument was validated by three experts, these included; the researcher’s supervisor, one expert from the Department of Human Kinetics and Sports Science and one from the Department of Educational Evaluation and Counselling Psychology all from the University of Benin. Their criticisms, corrections, suggestions, modifications and recommendations served as the final draft of the instrument. The split-half method of reliability was used. The instrument was administered to 20 athletes of Igbinedion University Okada twice, who were not part of the study. This involves administering the instrument to the athletes, after an interval of two weeks, the instrument was re- administered to same sets of respondents. Data collected were analysed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient statistics and a coefficient values of 0.82 was obtained an indication that the instrument was reliable for the study.

This work is aimed at investigating the psychological variables affecting the performance of student athletes in sport in the university of Benin. Eight research questions were raised for the study. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population of study consisted of 633 student athletes of the University of Benin. The data was collected using simple random sampling technique and a sample size of 127 student athletes from University of Benin. The research instrument used for the study was a self-structured questionnaire. The validity of the instrument was subjected to scrutiny and the test-retest reliability 087 indicating that the instrument was reliable. The data was analyzed using frequency and standard deviation for the analysis of the research questions The results revealed that psychology plays a crucial role in student athletes sporting performance and coping strategies such as positive self-talk confidence, mental vigor and relaxation are known to boost performances.
In conclusion student athletes are attempting to get better in sports performance but the lack of full knowledge on sport psychology and the failure to practice the known coping strategies leads to a decline in their sports performance, they should also train together and work along with their coaches by having a close relationship with them and share experiences with them, all these improve the their mindset and help to improve their performances. Recommendations are made that student athletes should expose themselves to expected stimuli during training in order to enhance their performance and be able to peak in competitions and keeping close to their coaches which help the coach to know when the student athletes are psychologically imbalance.

This study investigated the influence of regular physical activity and exercise on undergraduates in the Faculty of Education, University of Benin. It was a descriptive survey that employed qualitative and quantitative survey approach in analyzing data. The main problem of the study was that students appear to face numerous barriers to becoming physically active. Five (5) research questions were raised to guide the study with one hypothesis tested. The significance of the study from the results, shows that students will be exposed to the vulnerability of physical inactivity and the consequences it has on the academic life of undergraduates. The (sample of the study was 200 selected from 400 level undergraduate students of a total population of 1.852 during the study year in the Faculty of Education, University of Benin). Questionnaire was used as instrument to collect data. The Cronbach alpha co-efficient was used to determine the dependability of the instrument and the reliability of co-efficient was found to be 0.76 which was considered satisfactory for establishing the reliability of the instrument. The statistical techniques used to analyze data collected were frequencies and percentages. An independent t-test was also used to test the hypothesis. The results showed among others that, lack of physical activity and exercise contributed to poor academic outcome and disposition. The recommendation therefore was that, fitness clubs that will engage these students in physical activity and exercise are to be provided to make them have easy access to facilities/equipment that would augment regular physical activity and thereby subsequently improving their fitness level towards the pursuance of their academic goal in the university

The study delves into the perception, practices, and effects of drug abuse among undergraduate athletes at the Institute of Health Technology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Nigeria. It highlights the significant issue of drug abuse in sports, especially among undergraduate athletes, exploring its various dimensions including its causes, prevalence, and impacts on athletes’ careers. The research aims to assess athletes' attitudes towards the repercussions of drug abuse, identify prevalent practices, understand the influencing factors, andpropose measures for prevention and control. Employing a descriptive research design, the study utilized structured questionnaires for data collection from a calculated sample size of 51 athletes, based on Taro Yamane’s formula. The data analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics, incorporating the Student T-test. Results indicated a general awareness among athletes of the detrimental effects of drug abuse on their careers. It also revealed the existence of drug abuse practices, driven by societal pressures, peer influences, and media portrayal of ideal body standards. However, current efforts to address and combat drug abuse proved insufficient. In conclusion, the study underscores that drug abuse is a pervasive issue among undergraduate athletes, influenced by various factors. Recommendations for tackling this issue include enhancing educational programs, providing counseling services, ensuring professional guidance, initiating awareness campaigns, and enforcing stricter control on drug sales. The study suggests further exploration in areas like longitudinal effects, comparative studies, psychological aspects, and the influence of social media on drug abuse perceptions and behaviors among athletes.

Grassroots sports development is a crucial component of a nation's sporting
ecosystem, serving as the breeding ground for future athletes and a source of community
well-being. In Nigeria, where sports have historically held a special place in the hearts of
its people, understanding the role of government in fostering grassroots sports is of
paramount importance. This study delves into the state of grassroots sports development
in Oredo Local Government and assesses the influence of government policies and
interventions. The research methodology involved a comprehensive survey of 100 participants, including sports administrators, coaches, and local athletes. Data was analyzed to explore
current conditions, the role of government, challenges, and strategies for sustainable
development. This research contributes to the understanding of grassroots sports development in
Nigeria and provides insights for policymakers, sports administrators, and practitioners to
enhance the quality and reach of grassroots sports initiatives. As the nation continues to
nurture its sporting talent at the grassroots level, this study serves as a valuable resource
for future planning and development in the realm of sports.