Abstract:

On the basis of selection of conative characteristics that are potentially significant for success in a large number of kinesiologic activities, the relations between chosen theoretic constructs that describe the personality of bowling players and variables that describe the success in bowling championship have been ascertained. In other words, conative characteristics potentially important for success in bowling are correlated with the success in bowling competition. Significant correlation between conative characteristics and success in bowling was hypothesized. Population from which the intentional sample is chosen is initially selected narrow circle of candidates for the Croatian junior team (N=24; 11 female and 13 male bowling players, aged from 15 to 23).They were examined with instruments that measure constructs of hardiness, perfectionism, locus of control, motivation for achievement, aggressiveness, goal orientation and competitive anxiety. Results have shown that there are certain significant correlations between conative characteristics and sport success, on the basis of which it is possible to suggest the procedures for a differentiated psychological approach to individuals, during training period. A relatively small number of significant correlations, can be explained with similarity of conative characteristics of the elite bowling players. The hypothesis could be only partially confirmed.

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