The Role of School Sports in Shaping Student Identity and Social Relationships

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the impact of school sports on student identity and social relationships in Vietnamese secondary schools. Employing in-depth interviews, focus groups, and observational methods, the research examines the experiences of students, coaches, and administrators across three distinct school settings. Findings indicate that participation in school sports significantly enhances students' self-perception and identity, facilitates robust social connections, and fosters community. Additionally, the study reveals that school sports programs are efeectively integrated with Vietnamese cultural values, particularly emphasizing collectivism and community orientation. However, gender difeerences in sports participation highlight the need for more inclusive and gender-sensitive program designs. The study also identifies challenges related to resource limitations and balancing academic and sports commitments, suggesting areas for policy enhancement. This research contributes to the broader understanding of the educational value of extracurricular activities. It underscores the potential of school sports as a tool for personal and social development in academic settings. Importantly, the findings ofeer practical and actionable insights for educators and policymakers, providing a roadmap to optimize the benefits of school sports programs.