Examining the social capital levels of amateur football players

In this study, it is aimed to reveal whether football has an effect on social capital levels by examining the environment, friendship relations, football life and social connections of individuals who play amateur licensed football. When used correctly, football is a sport that has the potential to develop social skills, ensure social integration and create social capital. Social capital is an important phenomenon that affects individuals throughout their lives. Phenomenological design of qualitative research method was used in the study. This research is limited to 20 volunteer participants over the age of 18 who actively play licensed amateur football in Karabük. As a result of the findings obtained from the personal information form and standardised interview questions applied to amateur football players, it was evaluated that football expands individuals' social networks, increases their self-confidence, has an important place to establish new connections, and plays a central role in expanding individuals' social circles. The social capital levels of amateur football players were analysed and as a result, it was determined that football positively affects the social capital levels of the participants and is a very important platform in the social capital production of the participants. Keywords: Amateur football player, Social capital, Social connection, Social network