A Review of the Consequences of the Absence of Sports Law Education in University Curricula of Physical Education
Keywords:
Sports law education, physical education curriculum, legal literacy, athlete protection, curricular reform, professional development, interdisciplinary educationAbstract
This study aims to examine the consequences of the absence of sports law education in the curricula of physical education programs in Iranian universities and to explore the need for its integration to enhance legal literacy and professional competency in the sports sector. The research employs a scientific narrative review methodology using a descriptive-analytical approach. Academic literature, university curricula, national education policy documents, and comparative international case studies published between 2015 and 2024 were systematically reviewed. Sources were selected based on relevance to legal education in sports, curricular reform, and professional training standards. Thematic analysis was applied to extract and categorize key issues, consequences, and global trends related to sports law education. The review reveals a significant gap in the inclusion of sports law within Iran’s physical education programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Legal topics are either entirely absent or superficially embedded within unrelated courses. This omission results in multiple negative outcomes, including increased legal vulnerability for athletes and coaches, institutional risks such as non-compliance and corruption, and the production of graduates who lack essential legal literacy for professional practice. Additionally, the absence of legal education contributes to ethical failures, reduced athlete safety, and the perpetuation of discrimination and inequity in sports environments. Comparative analysis shows that other countries have successfully integrated sports law into interdisciplinary curricula, enhancing professional readiness and institutional governance. The lack of sports law education in Iranian physical education programs presents a critical challenge to the professional development, legal protection, and ethical standards of the sports system. Curricular reform and interdisciplinary integration of legal training are essential for aligning Iranian sports education with global practices and addressing the complex legal demands of modern sport.
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