True or False: Athletes who play for intrinsic rewards often maintain the long-term motivation needed for success in sport.

Athletes who play for intrinsic rewards, such as personal satisfaction, enjoyment, or the challenge of improving their skills, are often more likely to maintain long-term motivation for their sport. These intrinsic motivations can lead to a deeper commitment and sustained engagement because athletes are not merely focused on external rewards, such as trophies or accolades. Instead, their love for the game and personal fulfillment drive their participation.

Intrinsic motivation tends to foster resilience and a more profound emotional connection to the sport, which can be crucial during challenging times or when facing setbacks. As a result, athletes who are intrinsically motivated often exhibit persistence and a greater willingness to overcome obstacles in their training and competition.

While it might seem that some athletes are driven by external factors, research consistently supports the idea that intrinsic rewards play a key role in long-term motivation, making the statement true. Therefore, stating that athletes who play for intrinsic rewards maintain long-term motivation is aligned with these principles of motivation in sports.