Effects of Winning a Sports Match on Emotional Duration and Work Performance in Adolescent Supporters During the Post-Competition Period

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the influence of football match outcomes on the emotional states, work capacity, and motivation of children across different age groups, particularly in the context of Georgia's historic qualification for the European Championship in 2024. Recognizing the multifaceted impact of sports on mood and cognition, we explore how the euphoria resulting from a win can vary significantly based on age. Methods: A survey involving 40 school-aged children (11-17 years old) was conducted a week after Georgia’s victory against Greece, measuring emotional responses and their subsequent effects on work performance and motivation. Results: Children aged 11 to 13 experienced the highest levels of euphoria, rating their happiness at 5 out of 5, while those aged 14 to 16 reported a score of 4.5 and 17 to 18-year-olds scored 4.7. In terms of work capacity, the average score was 3.1, with the 17-18 age group showing the highest rating at 3.71 and the 14-16 group the lowest at 2.68. Motivation levels averaged 4.1, peaking at 4.4 among 17-18-year-olds, whereas the 14-16-year-olds displayed no significant increase. Conclusion: The findings reveal that younger children are more emotionally responsive to victories, while older adolescents demonstrate greater resilience and utilize positive emotions to enhance their focus and motivation. This underscores the importance of understanding emotional dynamics in sports, providing insights into how to foster resilience, emotional intelligence, and community among young fans and players. By cultivating these qualities, we can support the holistic development of youth, ultimately contributing to their growth as individuals both on and off the field.