Ideal sports management model in youth sports development

Today, the widespread promotion of sports, the development of healthy individuals, and the systematic nurturing of talented athletes are directly related to effective infrastructure management. The functionality of sports infrastructures depends not only on physical conditions but also on the quality of managerial and educational processes. This study aims to contribute to future sports policies by revealing the views of parents and coaches regarding the ideal sports infrastructure management model. The research was conducted with 12 coaches who have been working in sports infrastructures for at least 10 years and 12 parents whose children have participated in these programs for at least 2 years. A phenomenological approach, one of the qualitative research designs, was adopted, and data were collected through semi-structured interview forms. According to the research findings, coaches emphasized the need for a qualified and continuously trained coaching staff, modern facilities, digitally supported educational processes, development-oriented rather than performance-based approaches, and increased international experiences. Parents stated that sports infrastructures should support not only the physical but also the psychological and social development of children. They also highlighted the importance of a safe environment, effective communication, psychological support, and club facilities. In conclusion, an ideal sports infrastructure management model becomes sustainable not only through technical competencies but also through a structure based on family support, an education-oriented approach, and a focus on holistic development. Keywords: Sports infrastructure, coach perspectives, parent perspectives