Summer sports schools from the coach and parent perspective: Swot analysis

Aim: The purpose of this study is to comprehensively examine the current structure of summer sports schools, their operational processes, the athletic and social potential they offer, and the challenges they face, based on the perspectives of coaches and parents, who are the key stakeholders in the process within the framework of a SWOT analysis. Materials and Methods: The study adopted a qualitative research approach and employed a case study design. The study group consisted of 16 participants selected through purposive sampling: 8 coaches working at summer sports schools operating in Erzincan Province during the summer of 2025, and 8 parents who had enrolled their children in these schools. Coaches and parents were interviewed with a semi-structured form; content analysis was used to analyze the data obtained. Results: The SWOT analysis identified the main strengths as supporting children’s personal and social development, identifying talent, and promoting participation in competitive sports. The main weaknesses were reduced educational quality due to overcrowding and transportation problems. Key opportunities were talent development and promoting healthier individuals, while the major threats were transportation difficulties, security risks caused by overcrowding, and limited sustainability beyond the summer season. Conclusion: Summer sports camps in Erzincan Province have significant social and athletic potential, but this potential has not been fully realized because of accessibility issues and the negative effects of increased participation on educational quality. Therefore, to make these camps more effective and sustainable, accessibility should be improved, educational quality maintained, and collaboration among stakeholders strengthened.