Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Assistant Professor in Sport Management, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran
2 Master student in sport Management, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran
3 Assistant Professor of LIS, University of Birjand
Abstract
Purpose: This study provides a scientometric overview of Sport Management research, with particular emphasis on the thematic structure and keyword dynamics of the field.
Methodology: A keyword‑based strategy was employed for data collection using the terms “sport management” and “sports management” within the titles or keywords of publications. A total of 5,743 English‑language articles were retrieved from the Scopus database. Following data cleaning and normalization, the dataset was analyzed using advanced scientometric tools. The study examines the overall scientometric profile of the field, including temporal trends, citation patterns, and domain distribution, as well as thematic development within sport management literature. VOSviewer and the Bibliometrix R package were used to perform keyword analysis, co‑occurrence mapping, and thematic clustering.
Findings: The results identify eight major thematic domains within sport management research: Organizational Strategy and Technological Integration; Athlete Health and Injury Management; Athlete Performance and Sport Psychology; Governance, Safety, and Health Policy; Sustainable Sport Event Management; Social Equity and Inclusion in Sport; Sport Tourism and Environmental Sustainability; and Participant Motivation and Volunteerism. Several of these domains exhibit notable thematic overlap, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of the field.
Conclusion: The findings indicate a gradual shift in sport management research from traditional foundational themes toward technology‑oriented topics, including the use of big data and machine learning in sport management contexts.
Value: These findings provide insights for future research while expanding the understanding of sport management. By offering an evidence‑based overview of thematic developments, the study provides academics, practitioners, and policymakers with a foundation to guide future developments and strategic decision‑making.
Keywords: Sport Management, Sports Management, Scientometric Analysis, Thematic Evolution, Keyword Trends, Concept Mapping
Keywords
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