Examination of the relationship between university sports environment and professionalism levels in athletes

Aim: The aim of this study is to examine the relationship between the university sports environment and the level of professionalism among athletes. Material and Method: The study was conducted using a relational survey model, which is a descriptive approach among quantitative research methods. The population of the study consists of athletes aged 18 and above in Turkey. The sample consists of student-athletes enrolled in sports higher education programs in the provinces of Ordu, Samsun, Giresun, and Gümüşhane. In the study, data were collected using a personal information form, the University Sports Environment Scale, and the Professionalism Scale for Athletes. The normality test applied to the data indicated that the data followed a normal distribution. Statistical analyses included the Student's t-test, one way analysis of variance, Tukey's multiple comparison test, and Pearson correlation analysis. Results: The study found no significant differences in scale scores based on participants' gender, income status, years of involvement in sports, university, and class variables. However, significant differences were identified in some sub dimensions and total scores based on age, type of sport, and athlete licensing variables.A positive and moderate level of significant relationship was found between athletes' scores in the university sports environment and professionalism. Conclusions: According to the study results, it was determined that athletes aged 26 and above have a higher level of professionalism compared to athletes in the 18-25 age range. Based on this, it's expected that as age increases, the level of professionalism also increases. It can be stated that athletes will gain more experience over time, leading to a more professional approach. It is observed that team athletes have significantly higher sports environment scores compared to individual athletes. This could be attributed to the fact that sports events organized in universities are more focused on team sports than individual sports. It is believed that the number of events organized in traditional sports branches is higher compared to individual sports. It is recommended that sports higher education institutions and relevant sports federations increase the number of events for individual sports. This is expected to allow athletes participating in individual sports to showcase their skills and gain experience. Lastly, it was determined that as athletes' university sports environment levels increase, their professionalism levels also increase. University sports environment is related to the course curriculum in sports higher education institutions, facilities within the campus, and sports clubs. It is believed that these factors providing quality and purposeful services will positively impact athletes' professionalism levels. Keywords: Athlete, Sports Higher Education Institution, Sports Environment,Professionalism