Sports Programs Research Articles

Investigation of Mental Training Status of University Students Interested in Individual and Team Sports

The aim of this study is to examine the mental training status of students who are interested in individual and team sports at Aksaray University Faculty of Sport Sciences in terms of different variables. In the research, 182 volunteer students studying in the departments of Physical Education and Sports, Coaching Education and Sports Management at Aksaray University Faculty of Sport Sciences were included. Data collection tools in the study; Personal Information Form, Mental Training Inventory in Sports (MTI) was used to determine the mental training status of the students. SPSS 26 package program was used to evaluate the data. According to the data obtained, it was concluded that the mental training levels of the students were high. There was a significant difference in the variables of sport branch and program of study, but no difference was found in the gender variable. As a result, it was seen that the mental training levels of the students studying at the Faculty of Sports Sciences were at a high level. The reason for this is that the Covid-19 period has just ended, and it is thought that the students' inability to train due to this situation may have affected their mental training status.

武术课课程思政的内在机理与教育理念研究

The Wushu curriculum is a course based on the Wushu sports program, and it has played an important role in the history of Chinese education. The study uses literature and logical analysis to systematically elaborate the value and connotation of “Kecheng-Sizheng”, on the basis of which the inner mechanism and educational Philosophy of “Kecheng-Sizheng” for Wushu are explored. This study believes Wushu is not only a traditional national sports event with its own cultural identity, but also a school physical education curriculum with oriental cultural characteristics, which provides rich educational materials and ideological and political elements for the implementation of “Kecheng-Sizheng” for Wushu. In the new era, Wushu adhere to the educational philosophy of “cultivating people with moral integrity and putting people first”, which not only reflects the organic unity of “preaching” and “teaching skills”, but also realizes the organic unity of “building morals” and “nurturing people”. Studying the intrinsic mechanism and educational philosophy of “Kecheng-Sizheng” for Wushu is conducive to the collaborative educational effect of Wushu and ideological and political courses, and continuously solve educational development problems.

Psychological Effects of Music in Exercise and Sports Performance

Purpose: The general purpose of this study was to examine the psychological effects of music in exercise and sports performance.
 Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.
 Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to technology and traditional arts in modern sporting events. Preliminary empirical review revealed that music significantly influences psychological states during physical activity. It found that music with faster tempos and motivational lyrics enhanced arousal, mood, and performance outcomes such as endurance and coordination. Additionally, personalized music interventions tailored to individual preferences maximized the performance-enhancing effects of music. The study emphasized the importance of considering both psychological and physiological responses to music in designing effective interventions for optimizing performance outcomes and promoting exercise adherence. Overall, the findings highlighted the intricate relationship between music and exercise performance and suggested potential avenues for future research in this area.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Theory of Arousal Regulation, Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and Attentional Focus may be used to anchor future studies on psychological effects of music in exercise and sports performance. The study provided comprehensive recommendations that contributed to theory, practice, and policy in the field. Through theoretical development, the study refined existing frameworks such as the Theory of Arousal Regulation and Self-Determination Theory, deepening our understanding of how music influences psychological states in athletic contexts. Practical guidelines were established to integrate music into athlete preparation routines, emphasizing personalized playlists and warm-up protocols to optimize performance outcomes. Policy implications highlighted the need to institutionalize music-based interventions in sports programs, promoting athlete well-being and enjoyment. Furthermore, the study identified future research priorities, evaluation frameworks, and public health initiatives to advance the integration of music into exercise and sports settings, fostering physical activity participation and overall health.

Toward trustworthy COVID-19 interventions: Building vaccine trust through community-university partnerships.

Prior research identifies trust as critical to increase vaccine acceptance and uptake. However, few intervention studies have sought to develop or test strategies for bolstering vaccine-related trust. To address this gap, this exploratory study identifies features of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy interventions that can promote or undermine trust across three interconnected domains: institutional, interpersonal, and product (the vaccine itself). We draw on focus groups (N = 27 participants) with community and university partners involved with hosting COVID-19 testing and vaccine events in underserved Oklahoma communities. Focus groups explored participants' experiences serving community health needs and elicited feedback on proposed vaccine hesitancy interventions. Proposed interventions included two technology-based strategies (text message reminders and tablet-based testimonials and education) and one dialogue-based strategy (anti-body test interpretation). We find that community partners perceived local universities as trustworthy institutions because of their association with popular sports programs, academic credentials, and proximity, creating opportunities to address vaccine-related distrust through community-university partnerships. The most promising intervention strategies for building interpersonal trust included engaging in one-on-one dialogue and using autonomy enhancing approaches. Finally, interventions that successfully encouraged vaccine trust did so by incorporating personalized health information about individuals' potential level of protection and susceptibility to the COVID-19 virus. These findings can inform future public health efforts to create trustworthy vaccine hesitancy interventions.

Effect of the red uniform on the judgment of position or movement used in Wushu Routine, evaluated by practitioners of the modality.

In the artistic sports program, the referee' scores directly determine the final results of the athletes. Wushu is a artistic sport that has a Chinese characteristic and has the potential to become an official competition at the Summer Olympic. In this study we tested whether a red uniform color affects Wushu Routine practitioners' ratings of athletes' position or movement of Wushu Routine. We also tested whether the effect varied depending on the gender of the athlete and the practitioner, and depending on whether female practitioners were in the ovulation phase of their menstrual cycle. Male (Experiment 1: N = 72) and female (Experiment 1: N = 72; Experiment 2: N = 52) participants who major in Wushu Routine were recruited to take a referee's perspective and rate the movement quality of male and female athletes wearing red or blue uniforms. The results of Experiment 1 showed that both male and female athletes wearing red uniform (compared to blue uniform) received higher ratings (p = .002, η2 = .066; p = .014, η2 = .043), and the red effect was especially strong when male practitioners rated female athletes (p = .002, η2 = .069). The results of Experiment 2, in an all-female sample, showed that in most cases there was no difference in ratings made by women in the ovulation and non-ovulation phases of their menstrual cycle, with the exception of their ratings of male athletes wearing red; in this condition, women gave higher ratings when they were in the ovulation phase of their cycle (p = .026). The results suggest that there is a red effect in an artistic sport like Wushu Routine, in which gender and the female menstrual cycle play an important role.

A community-based modified sport program for rural community-dwelling older adults: A pilot study.

With Australia's ageing population, especially in rural regions, promoting physical activity among older adults is crucial. To identify factors influencing participation of older adults (60 years or over) from a rural community in a modified sport program and assess satisfaction with a pilot modified sport program informed by these findings. Insights and ideas from two focus groups exploring community perspectives on a modified sport program informed the development of a six-week pilot modified sport program delivered with the local fitness centre. Post-program surveys assessed participant satisfaction, willingness to continue, and likelihood of recommending the program to others. Nine participants attended the focus groups, highlighting increased social connection, health management, and healthy ageing as key motivators. Joint and health concerns, cost, and time constraints emerged as main barriers. Preferences for the program included weekly sessions, alternating sports, indoor venues, and supporting modifications, but maintaining traditional rules. Thirteen participants participated in the pilot modified sport program. There was strong program attendance (86%). All participants (13/13) rated their satisfaction as very satisfied. They were highly likely to recommend the program to others (8.5/10) and were interested in continuing modified sport after the pilot (7.7/10). This study demonstrates for the first time that modified sport is of interest to older people in the rural setting, and that delivering such a program is feasible in a small community. Rural communities implementing modified sport should consider the availability of suitable facilities and equipment, access to an engaging facilitator and participant cost. Through a strong connection between the health service and community fitness centre, a modified sport program was developed and implemented, well-attended and enjoyed by participants in a rural community.

Women Sports Participation and Gender Sensitivity Towards Enhanced Sports’ Program

This study explores women's participation in sports and the level of gender sensitivity within sports programs. Using comprehensive methods, including reliability measurements and statistical analyses, it assesses women's exposure and awareness of gender sensitivity. Data collected from athletes at ShanTou Polytechnic provide valuable insights into participant profiles, exposure levels, and gender sensitivity awareness. Reliability measurements indicate strong internal consistency in exposure and gender sensitivity, ensuring the study's credibility. Demographic analysis reveals a higher proportion of female athletes, mainly around the age of 20, with a predominant involvement in sports dance. The study systematically addresses respondents' personal information concerning gender, age, and sports types. It delves into women's exposure in sports, focusing on public interest, participation, representation, and frequency of sports involvement. Findings indicate a high level of support, encouragement, and recognition for female athletes within the sports community. The study also explores respondents' awareness of gender sensitivity faced by female athletes, emphasizing mutual encouragement, equal treatment, and rejecting gender stereotypes. In conclusion, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of women's sports participation and gender sensitivity, offering valuable insights for enhancing inclusivity and support for women in sports. It underscores the significance of promoting equal opportunities, breaking stereotypes, and ensuring a conducive environment for the health and recognition of female athletes.

The Physical Benefits of Sports, Basis for Enhanced Sports Program

This study conducts a comprehensive analysis by investigating the impact of sports activities on university students' daily lives and their promotional benefits in public awareness and community events. The findings reveal that students generally perceive positive influences in physical, mental, economic, and value integration domains due to sports activities. In the physical domain, students believe that sports make their daily routines more active, and gym fitness is both enjoyable and beneficial. Regarding mental health, students experience a relaxing feeling, enhanced concentration, and the development of positive values through sports. In the economic domain, students see opportunities, networking skills, and improved job prospects resulting from sports involvement. Analyzing the impact based on gender and age indicates no significant differences in most domains. However, variations exist in sports types, particularly in the mental health domain, where volleyball players show higher scores than football players. Furthermore, the study highlights the positive promotional benefits of sports in public awareness campaigns and fun community events. Students recognize the contribution of sports to health awareness, community engagement, and the attraction of external participants. In conclusion, this research emphasizes the importance of sports activities for the holistic development of university students. Practical recommendations are provided for the planning and promotion of university sports activities based on the study's outcomes.

How frequently is alcohol advertised on television in Canada?: A cross-sectional study.

Alcohol marketing is a commercial driver of alcohol use, including among youth. This study sought to quantify and characterize alcohol advertising on broadcast television in Canada. Open-source television program logs for January to December 2018 submitted to the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission by 147 stations with alcohol advertisements were analyzed. Overall, 501628 alcohol advertisements were broadcast. Four companies accounted for 83% of advertisements, namely, Anheuser-Busch in Bev (33.7%), Molson Coors (22.7%), Diageo (16.1%), and Arterra Wines Canada (10.8%). On conventional stations, advertising was highest on French-language stations [Median (Mdn) = 3224; interquartile range (IQR) = 2262] followed by those with programming in foreign/mixed languages (Mdn = 2679; IQR = 219) and English-language stations (Mdn = 1955; IQR = 1563). On speciality stations, advertising was most frequent on those primarily focused on sports programming (Mdn = 8036; IQR = 7393), movies and scripted shows (Mdn = 7463; IQR = 5937), and cooking (Mdn = 5498; IQR = 4032). On weekdays, 33% of alcohol ads aired from 6 to 9a.m. and 3 to 9p.m. and on weekends, 52% aired from 6a.m. to 9p.m. when children or adolescents are more likely to be watching television. On youth-oriented stations (n = 4), 7937 alcohol advertisements were broadcast with most airing from 9p.m. to midnight (44-45%) or 12-6a.m. (50%) on both weekdays and weekends. While few alcohol advertisements were broadcast on youth-oriented stations, young people in Canada are likely exposed to such advertising on programming intended for older or general audiences (e.g. sports). More research is needed to ascertain the extent to which broadcast television constitutes a source of alcohol advertising exposure among youth and to inform policies aimed at protecting them from the influence of such exposure.

What makes community sports programs successful? A group concept mapping study to identify effective elements

Adults in socially vulnerable positions can benefit from participation in community sports programs. However, there is a lack of knowledge about the effective elements of these programs. To identify these elements, we consulted three groups of stakeholders: social sports coaches, program coordinators, and social workers. The effective elements were systematically arranged by means of group concept mapping (GCM), a mixed-methods approach for organizing thoughts. The social sports coaches (n = 14) mentioned 152 effective elements, the program coordinators (n = 5) mentioned 81 effective elements and the social workers (n = 8) mentioned 115 effective elements. Overlapping effective elements were mentioned by all three stakeholder groups, such as the role of the social sports coach, a safe sports climate, and structure of sports programs. However, the sport-specific knowledge and skills of coaches were mentioned only by program coordinators. Moreover, only the social workers provided elements that were protective in nature, such as not overburdening the participants. Average importance scores differed for these elements within groups and between groups. In conclusion, various effective elements were deemed necessary for community sports programs to be successful. Moreover, GCM appeared a successful tool to systematically identify effective elements of an intervention from the perspective of relevant stakeholders.

Evaluation Study of Special Class Sports Program Management at High School Level

This research aimed to evaluate the management of the special sports class (kelas khusus olahraga/KKO) program. Material and Methods: This research is evaluation research that employed the context, input, process, and product (CIPP) evaluation model. The research utilized a qualitative data approach, employing an interview guide as a research instrument. The sampling technique used was non-probability sampling, specifically purposive sampling, which involved setting research sample criteria and obtaining 5 samples. Each sample was interviewed at different times, and their identities were kept confidential to ensure objectivity in the responses. The findings of this research indicate that the evaluation of the special sports class program management in all aspects is still suboptimal. The results for each aspect are as follows: the context aspect meets the good criteria, the input aspect meets the medium criteria, the process aspect falls into the poor criteria, and the product aspect also meets the medium criteria. These results are accompanied by essential notes fundamental to the input, process, and product aspects. As a result, the researchers recommend several actions for each aspect. Firstly, for the context aspect, administrators are advised to continue operating the program in line with the existing vision and mission to enhance its optimal functioning. Secondly, for the input aspect, administrators are encouraged to place KKO students within the science major. Furthermore, for the process aspect, it is recommended that the management determine the continuity of the teaching and learning process for the KKO program, whether to use a new curriculum specifically for KKO, merge it with regular classes, or continue managing it in one class by simply changing the major system. Finally, for the product aspect, it is recommended to collaborate with the education department and local sports faculties to provide outreach to prospective students and their parents about the function of the KKO program’s major system

Consider implementing transfer fee model to benefit college sports programs

In international football — the sport we refer to as soccer here in the United States — a “transfer” refers to the reassigning of a player's registration from one football club to another. Typically, when a player transfer occurs, a negotiated compensation amount, or “transfer fee,” is paid by the interested team to the club that currently possesses the player's contractual rights. This financial transaction is seen as a necessary way to compensate the soon‐to‐be former club for the costs associated with the player's training, instruction, and development. (See bit.ly/3RPwqgD.)

Importance of mental health in the sports environment

The objectives of this study are focused, firstly, on understanding the levels of cognitive anxiety, self-confidence, and pre- and post-match somatic anxiety. Secondly, to analyse the impact of the match outcome (win-loss) on the mentioned dimensions according to the Home-Away condition. The research involved 70 volleyball players (28 home and 42 away) belonging to cadet categories from different volleyball teams competing in the School Sports Program in the province of Araba, specifically in the city of Vitoria Gasteiz. Participants completed the Competitive State Anxiety Inventory in Sport (CSAI-2) (Martens et al., 1990), consisting of 27 items, adapted and validated in Spanish by Capdevila (1997), and subsequently reviewed and used by other researchers (Arruza et al., 2001; Telletxea, 2008). The results show that somatic anxiety significantly decreased between pre and post-match in the home condition, and there are significant differences between home players and away players in response to a victory outcome. The ability of coaches, monitors, and fitness trainers to understand and address athletes' anxiety states is crucial for optimizing their performance and overall well-being, as well as adherence to physical activity.

Sexual Harassment/Abuse Policies in U.S. Youth Sport Programs.

Sport governing bodies, such as the International Olympic Committee, have recommended youth sport organizations develop policies, procedures, and/or ethical guidelines to prevent and respond to sexual harassment and abuse (SHA) experienced by young athletes. To our knowledge, no studies have investigated SHA policies or procedures in U.S. youth sport programs. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine U.S. youth sport programs' policies regarding SHA. The results are based on a cross-sectional survey completed by youth sport coaches (n = 200) from various organizations (e.g., public recreation organizations, private nonprofit organizations, and interscholastic sports). Findings suggest that most organizations have several SHA policies, such as education and training requirements, written policies and codes of conduct regarding coach-athlete sexual relationships, and formal complaint and disclosure procedures for investigating SHA. A bivariate analysis suggests that the presence of several SHA policies was associated with an increased number of self-reported SHA incidents. Moreover, youth sport programs located in urban areas had a greater extent of SHA policies compared to those located in suburban or rural areas. These results are discussed with respect to the potential relationships between the presence of policies and increased cases of SHA. Also, we discussed advocating for equitable resources among youth sport programs regardless of geographic and/or demographic factors. Future research should identify social and cultural barriers that inhibit the successful implementation of SHA policies. While developing and implementing SHA policies is a step in the right direction, it may not be used as the only means to address this complex, systematic, and structural issue.

Building sensory inclusion in sport and leisure venues: A community partnership case study

ABSTRACT Purpose/rationale When the senses are overwhelmed by sensory and auditory stimuli, such as those at a sport or leisure event, a sensory modulation room (SMR) can be a beneficial tool for regaining sensory calm for an individual and their family. The goal of this paper is twofold: (a) to discuss the benefits of social inclusion in sport and leisure events and (b) to analyze the design of inclusive SMR spaces implemented in college sport events to promote social inclusion. Design/methodology/approach This project uses a community-based participatory research (CBPR) case study to examine the implementation process and outcomes of a SMR at a sports venue. Findings Results of the study provide a deeper understanding of the collaborative process in creating an SMR for sport and leisure venues. Participants survey responses provide SMR outcomes and subsequent recommendations for future sensory inclusive programming. Practical implications Administrators and managers of sport and leisure programs often ignore the marketability of such sensory inclusive programming strategies and how these sensory inclusive approaches may provide additional target audiences and potential ways to expand participation and subsequent untapped revenue. Research contributions The supporting literature and applied case examples provide ways in which SMRs can be advantageous for sport, recreation, and leisure venues hosting sensory inclusive events. Originality/value Very little emphasis has been made of both the benefits that sensory inclusive programming provides both consumers and providers of sport and leisure programs.

VR을 활용한 바이크 게임 프로그램의 재미요인이 참여자의 운동지속력 및 대인관계에 미치는 영향

The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of fun factors in a VR-based bike game program on participants' exercise adherence and interpersonal relationships. The survey was distributed to 200 participants in 20s in the Chungcheongnam-do. Total 190 usable data were selected. Data were processed using SPSS 28.0. Exploratory factor analysis and reliability analysis were conducted and simple regression analysis and multiple regression analysis were performed. Results were as follows; First, participants with high fun factors positively influenced exercise adherence. Second, high fun factors also had a positive impact on interpersonal relationships. Lastly, the exercise adherence of participants has a partial positive effect on interpersonal relationships. Therefore, it can be concluded that fun factors in the VR-based bike game program contribute to participants' exercise adherence and interpersonal relationships to some extent. The findings of this study are expected to be utilized in encouraging opportunities for participants' physical and emotional development through the integration of advanced technology into sports programs.

Today's Older Adults: Strategies of Facilitating Sport Participation

As the U.S. population ages, park and recreation (P&R) professionals face increasing demand to provide age-appropriate and health-promoting programming for older adults. Recent qualitative research suggests older adults are interested in participating in sport programs tailored to their age group. Using socioecological theory as the guiding framework, and leisure constraint theory specifically, the current study explored participation and interest in recreational sport among older adults across the U.S. and their perceptions of how local P&R agencies currently meet, or fail to meet, their needs. Data, collected in 2019 via a nationwide online survey completed by 1,203 adults aged 50 and over, provided insights into the current population of older adults who are diverse in terms of health status, amount of discretionary time, and interest/experience with sport. Although most participants suggested they do not regularly participate in recreational sport, approximately half indicated they would be interested to try a new sport if opportunities were available, and they are motivated by health benefits, social opportunities, and enjoyment of recreational sport. Sports with the most interest were golf, pickleball, and softball. Additionally, participants expressed interest in bowling, hiking, tennis, volleyball, and swimming. Unfortunately, less than 20% of participants indicated they were satisfied or highly satisfied with the sport opportunities for older adults available through their local P&R department. Related to constraints, participants reported that constraints hindering their participation in recreational sport include physical or health-related factors (e.g., not being in good enough shape, not having the sport-related skills), lack of companions with whom to participate, lack of awareness of opportunities, lack of access to fields/facilities, and cost. The findings also relate to leisure facilitators within the constraint negotiation model, and suggests P&R agencies can facilitate sport participation among older adults by promoting the health, social, and fun aspects of participation; offering opportunities targeted at beginners with no skill/experience required; ensuring programs are age-specific and modified to reduce risk of injury; facilitating introductions among players or providing opportunities for individuals to join teams; ensuring that low-cost options exist, and increasing awareness among older adults through channels effective for this age group (e.g., personal invitation, Facebook). The findings highlight the importance of making older adults a priority when planning sport opportunities and understanding their sport-related interests and unique needs.

Cultural moderation in sports impact: exploring sports-induced effects on educational progress, cognitive focus, and social development in Chinese higher education

BackgroundThis research examines the nuanced challenges confronting Chinese university students within the dynamic milieu of Chinese education. The study comprehensively investigates factors encompassing educational progress, social development, cognitive focus, and Psychological Well-being (PWB), specifically emphasizing the role of sports participation.MethodsTo scrutinize the moderation-mediation nexus between cultural context and social development, a distribution of 500 questionnaires was administered to Chinese university students, yielding 413 responses, corresponding to an 82.6% response rate. Methodologically, this study employed moderation and mediation analyses, incorporating statistical techniques such as a principal component matrix, factor analysis, and hierarchical regression.FindingsProminent findings underscore the significant impact of age on educational progress, shaping the trajectory of academic advancement. Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) emerges as a promising metric, establishing a link between academic performance and educational progress. Active involvement in sports and physical activities (PSPA) positively affects academic performance and study habits. Participation in sports teams and clubs (ISTC) enriches social development by nurturing interpersonal relationships, teamwork, and leadership skills. Sports activities (ESA) correlate with enhanced cognitive focus and improved psychological well-being. Significantly, the findings unveil a nuanced association between Perceived Social Development Through Sports (PSDTS) and educational progress.ConclusionsCultural Context (CC) moderates PSDTS, Sport-induced Cognitive Focus (SICF), and PWB, influencing educational progress. This study emphasizes the need for enhanced support systems—academic guidance, awareness, sports programs, and cultural competence training—to advance student well-being and academic achievement in China, fostering an empowering educational environment for societal progress.

Роль спорта в системе социализации и здоровьесберегающего поведения молодежи: региональный аспект

The article updates the need to study the role and importance of sports in the system of socialization and health-saving behavior of youth in the region (using the example of the Republic of Tatarstan). The understanding of the socialization system is being updated through the prism of the totality of the diversity of determination mechanisms and conditions that can act, including the conditions for the formation of value systems for a healthy lifestyle and playing sports, which formulated the research problem presented in this article. The results of the author's sociological research obtained by the questionnaire in the Republic of Tatarstan in 2023 are presented (N = 820 people aged 18 to 35 years, a target sample; the selection criteria – a gender, an age, a region of residence). During the analysis of the survey data, the assumption was formulated that at the regional level, the role of sports and sports infrastructure in the system of socialization of youth and the implementation of health-saving behavior can be assessed through empirical indicators – internal and external determinants. Today It that young people in general highly appreciate the role of sports and the prestige of a healthy lifestyle, as well as the orientation of the infrastructure of their region towards sports as a priority form of leisure and recreation among young people, designating sports infrastructure as one of the significant conditions in the formation of value systems for health-saving behavior and motivator for playing sports and developing the sports movement among the younger generation. The analysis of the data obtained and identification of the role of sports as one of the determinative imperatives in the system of socialization of youth objectifies its role in the focus of the need to understand the direct influence of internal attitudes on playing sports and environmental factors, such as sports infrastructure, conditions, mechanisms, directions and programs for supporting sports among youth of the region in modern conditions.

Sports Culture and Its Relationship to The National Affiliation of Students College of Education at The University of Zakho

Sports culture significantly influences identity formation, particularly among the youth. This significance is underexplored within the context of Iraqi Kurdistan, prompting this study to explore the connection between involvement in sports culture and national affiliation among university students. The study's objectives were to evaluate the levels of sports culture engagement and feelings of national belonging among the students and to investigate the correlation between these two factors. The research involved a sample of 286 students from the Physical Education and Psychology departments at Zakho University. The methodology included collecting data using a sports culture scale and a national affiliation scale, followed by statistical analysis through T-tests to assess levels and Spearman correlation to examine the relationship between sports culture and national affiliation. The results revealed high mean scores in both sports culture and national belonging scales across both departments, with Physical Education students exhibiting slightly higher averages. Importantly, the study found a moderately strong positive correlation between sports culture involvement and levels of national affiliation. The conclusions drawn from the study suggest that participation in and knowledge of sports culture are linked to increased feelings of national pride and connection among Kurdish university students. This underscores the potential of utilizing sports education and programming as tools to strengthen communal identities. The study recommends further research across different Iraqi populations to explore this relationship further.