Recreational Football Tournaments for Children: A Thematic Qualitative Study on Parents’ Perspectives

Abstract

The aim of this study is to examine parents’ views on recreational football tournaments organized for children through thematic qualitative analysis. A qualitative research approach was adopted, and the data were collected through a semi-structured interview form consisting of open-ended questions. The study group consisted of 9 parents whose children participated in recreational football tournaments and who provided complete data. The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis. As a result of the analysis, the findings were grouped under five main themes: motivations for participation in the tournament, expectations from the tournament and perceptions of success, forms of parental support, effects on children, and family reflections and suggestions regarding the organization. The findings showed that parents generally evaluated recreational football tournaments positively. Parents stated that these organizations increased children’s self-confidence, contributed to their socialization, and supported the development of teamwork and a sense of responsibility. It was also determined that the tournament process strengthened family communication and created a shared area of experience. However, some parents approached the tournament with a competition- and success-oriented perspective, while several suggestions were offered regarding organizational issues such as field conditions, access to water, shaded areas, spectator arrangements, and parent behaviors. As a result, recreational football tournaments for children can be considered multidimensional organizations that provide not only physical activity opportunities but also social, emotional, and familial contributions.

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