A dearth of research exists on the relationship between monetary incentives and adolescent athletic performance, particularly regarding the potential influence of intrinsic motivation and physical self-efficacy. The purpose of this quasi-experimental investigation was to explore the relationship between three levels of monetary incentives ($0, $3, and $10) and the athletic performance of adolescent male soccer players. In addition, the researcher investigated whether perceived physical self-efficacy or intrinsic motivation moderated the relationship between athletic performance and monetary incentives. The framework for the study was comprised of expectancy theory, the theory of planned behavior, and self-determination theory. The research questions were designed to assess the relationships between monetary incentives and athletic performance, as well as the potential influence of intrinsic motivation and physical self-efficacy. Study participants included a convenience sample of 16 adolescent male soccer players between the ages of 11 and 13, who play on a youth soccer league in the Midwestern United States. The independent variable was level of monetary incentive and the dependent variable was athletic performance (time on the 50-yard dash). Intrinsic motivation was assessed using the Sport Motivation Scale. Perceived physical self-efficacy was assessed via participants` scores on the Physical Self-Efficacy Scale for Children. Analysis revealed that players` athletic performance increased as monetary incentives increased. In addition, intrinsic motivation and perceived physical self-efficacy had no statistically significant interaction effect on the relationship between athletic performance and monetary incentives. In order to use monetary incentives effectively, it is essential to understand the effects of moderators on the relationship between incentives and performance. Findings shed light on the usefulness of monetary incentives among adolescents.
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