ABSTRACT
The concept of cohesion is considered a group variable. Cohesion within sport is defined as "a dynamic process which is reflected in the tendency for a group to stick together and remain united in pursuit of its instrumental objectives and/or for the satisfaction of member affective needs". Motivation is broadly defined as various internal processes that energize and direct behavior. In promoting positive youth development, researchers and practitioners stress the potential and strengths of adolescents. The ways in which athletes appraise their competitive environment can have significant effects on their performance outcomes. Anxiety is typically viewed as a negative emotion that has the potential to impact sport performance. Chelladurai and Riemer defined athlete satisfaction as "a positive affective state resulting from a complex evaluation of the structures, processes, and outcomes associated with the athletic experience". An important consideration in sport, particularly at the youth level, is the retention of athletes. Hence, team cohesion is historically considered a positive group attribute.
