Differences in socio-economic status among football, cricket, volleyball and track & field athletes: A case study

Abstract

Socioeconomic status is a significant factor in determining the participation of children and youths in sports. Past studies on the socio-economic differences among athletes of different sports have barely been covered. Hence, using a quantitative approach, this study seeks to assess and compare the socio-economic status among athletes engaged in four different sports. Subjects were recruited from the Birbhum district of West Bengal, and they have represented local sports clubs in district-level competitions. The study found significant differences in socio-economic status among football, cricket, volleyball and track & field athletes. Moreover, track & field athletes were found to be socio-economically backwards compared to football, cricket and volleyball athletes. On the other hand, cricketers were found socio-economically better than football, volleyball and track & field athletes.