Presenting a conceptual framework for professionalizing the student sports system

This study aimed to provide a conceptual framework for the professionalization of the Iranian student sports system using a qualitative and content analysis method. The statistical population consisted of experts from the Deputy of Physical Education of the Ministry of Education, the Student Sports Federation, physical education teachers, and university professors who were selected based on their scientific, educational, and administrative backgrounds in this field. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 33 people, and theoretical sampling was carried out until saturation was reached. Data analysis included multi-stage coding and theme extraction with the participation of two researchers, and the validity of the data was confirmed by content analysis and the validity of the analysis by comparing the codes by the researchers, and the standards of validity and reliability were observed. The findings showed that the framework for the professionalization of student sports can be explained in four main axes: 1) Professionalization platforms including opportunities, requirements, and barriers; 2) Professionalization capacities including professional management, resource optimization, human resource empowerment, and institutional cohesion; 3) Professionalization of programs including health promotion, education, and learning; and holding standard events; and 4) professionalization functions include the professional growth of stakeholders and the professional advancement of student sports that can be explained, leading to the realization of the professionalization of student sports. The results of this research can be a strategic framework for policymaking and planning in the Ministry of Education and the Student Sports Federation.