THE INFLUENCE OF SERVICE QUALITY ON THE TRAINING MOTIVATION OF PAPUA TENNIS ATHLETES IN THE REGIONAL TRAINING CENTER (PUSLATDA) PROGRAM

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the effect of service quality on the training motivation of Papua provincial tennis athletes participating in the Regional Training Center (Pusat Latihan Daerah/Puslatda) program. A quantitative explanatory research design was employed using a survey method. The study involved all 20 athletes participating in the Puslatda program through total sampling. Data were collected using Likert-scale questionnaires measuring service quality based on the SERVQUAL dimensions (tangibles, reliability, responsiveness, assurance, and empathy) and athletes’ training motivation. Data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with AMOS 22.0. The findings revealed that athletes perceived the overall service quality as relatively low (mean = 2.33), particularly in the responsiveness dimension (mean = 2.22). Nevertheless, SEM analysis demonstrated that all five service quality dimensions had a positive and significant effect on training motivation (p < 0.001). These findings indicate that improving service quality can strengthen athletes’ motivation, commitment, and enthusiasm for training. Therefore, optimizing service quality should become a strategic priority in regional athlete development programs to support sustainable athletic performance and competitive achievement