Sport management or the management of sport? Reframing the theory debate

Abstract

ABSTRACT As a field, sport management is arguably divided into two perspectives related to theory: sport management or the management of sport. This division hinders the development and credibility of the field in the broader academic community. Thus, we adopt a perspective style of theorizing to critically discuss and reframe the sport management theory debate, suggesting an integrated perspective in the process. Each perspective’s central tenets, supporting arguments, and contentions are presented. The Sport-Management Theory Development Framework is proposed, which combines each perspective and includes four main facets: the what; the how; the why; and the who, when, and where of sport management research. Sport management scholars can use the proposed conceptual framework to critically appraise and advance research to establish a credible body of knowledge in sport and beyond. The framework allows the field’s existence to be defended according to its distinct knowledge, thus demonstrating its value in academia.