Beyond Physical Training: Psychosocial Development of Young Weightlifting Athletes in the SLOMPN-UNNES Program

Abstract

The development of young athletes is increasingly recognized as a process that extends beyond physical performance and competitive achievement. This study explored the psychosocial development of young weightlifting athletes participating in the Sentra Latihan Olahragawan Muda Potensial Nasional (SLOMPN)-UNNES program. A qualitative descriptive design was employed involving five athletes who had continuously participated in the program for approximately two years. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that participation in the program contributed positively to athletes’ personal, social, and psychological development. Athletes reported improvements in independence, discipline, social connectedness, confidence, emotional regulation, and resilience through their experiences within the program. Family support, coach-athlete relationships, peer solidarity, and structured mental preparation emerged as important contributors to psychosocial growth. These findings demonstrate that athlete development extends beyond physical training and that structured training environments can play an important role in fostering psychosocial growth among young athletes. In conclusion, youth athlete development programs should integrate psychosocial support alongside physical and technical preparation to promote holistic athlete development.