Abstract

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of a soccer based small sided games (SSG) extracurricular program on basic psychological needs and motivation in physical education classes. We studied 51 school-age males (15.59 ± 0.70 years) of Playa Ancha (Valparaíso, Chile). This study was quasi experimental pre-post test with control group. The Basic Physchological Needs Scale (BPNES) was used to assess the basic psychological needs and the Scale of Perceived Locus of Causality (PLOC) was used to assess motivation. Results showed positive effects of physical activity on intrinsic motivation, extrinsic regulation, amotivation and the need for competence, suggesting that participation in after-hours physical activity could affect the approach of how students view physical education classes during the school day.