SUCCESS FACTORS IN WOMEN’S FOOTBALL ACADEMIES

AN ANALYSIS OF INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL FACTORS

Abstract

A new phase in the development of women’s football in Hungary began with the introduction of the sports academy system in 2021, which now offers an increasing number of talented players a structured pathway for development. The aim of the present study was to explore which mental, motor, and external factors most significantly influence the successful transition of talented female footballers into adulthood. The research covered six state-recognized women’s football academies and used a questionnaire-based method to examine the opinions of three target groups: footballers (n=262), coaches (n=37), and parents (n=218). Data analysis included descriptive statistics, reliability assessment, and variance analysis (ANOVA). Among the characteristics rated on a four-point Likert scale, the most decisive internal (mental) factors were perseverance, willpower, the drive for improvement, and diligence. Coaches emphasized will-related traits, while players and parents highlighted the importance of the willingness to develop and diligence. Significant differences were found in the evaluation of team spirit, competitiveness, and ambition, among other aspects. The results confirm that developing motoric abilities alone is not sufficient for building a successful sports career: mental traits and a supportive environment (family, coach, infrastructure) collectively contribute to successful progression. This research contributes to a better understanding of the educational and developmental processes in women’s football and may provide guidance for those involved in youth training.