Positive Classroom Behavior Among Secondary School Football Players in Perak, Malaysia

This study investigates the relationship between motivational factors and classroom discipline among secondary school football players in Hilir Perak, Malaysia. Quantitative analysis revealed high levels of parental support (M = 5.65), student interest (M = 6.20), and overall positive discipline (M = 5.01), contradicting negative stereotypes of student-athletes. While parental support moderately correlates with student interest (r = .611, p < .001), a weak correlation exists between interest in football and classroom behaviour (r = .241, p < .005). The highest-rated factor for behavioural change was coach authority (M = 5.45), suggesting that discipline is primarily driven by the program's extrinsic structure rather than personal fervour for the sport. Consequently, school sports function as an effective disciplinary tool when anchored by professional leadership and clear social expectations