SPM-235 Leadership in Professional Sports

This course introduces students to key theories, approaches, and styles of leadership, with particular attention to the role of ethics and ethical decision-making in shaping effective leader behavior. Students analyze leadership practices across diverse sport settings through case studies of leaders at multiple levels and organizational structures. Critical issues in sport leadership, including gender and ethnicity, are also explored. In addition, students begin to examine their own leadership perspectives and tendencies, with an emphasis on personal leadership development and the cultivation of skills essential for success in sport leadership.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Take SPM 126

Lecture Contact Hours

3

Lab Contact Hours

0

Other Contact Hours

0

Department

• Business

Grading Scheme

• Letter

SUNY Gen Ed Credit

• No

Semesters Course Will Be Offered

• Fall
• Spring

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Describe common leadership styles and characteristics used by coaches, managers, and executives in professional sports organizations.
2. Analyze how effective leadership influences team performance, communication, and organizational culture in the professional sports environment.
3. Apply basic leadership and problem-solving strategies to real or simulated situations involving team management, motivation, or conflict resolution.
4. Discuss the ethical and professional responsibilities of leaders in sports, including issues of fairness, diversity, and accountability.

View Course Outline

SPM 235: Leadership in Professional Sports

Department

Business

Course Description

This course introduces students to key theories, approaches, and styles of leadership, with particular attention to the role of ethics and ethical decision-making in shaping effective leader behavior. Students analyze leadership practices across diverse sport settings through case studies of leaders at multiple levels and organizational structures. Critical issues in sport leadership, including gender and ethnicity, are also explored. In addition, students begin to examine their own leadership perspectives and tendencies, with an emphasis on personal leadership development and the cultivation of skills essential for success in sport leadership.

Credit Hours

3

Contact Hours

Lecture	3
Lab	0
Other	0

Grading Scheme

Letter

Semester(s) Course Will Be Offered

Fall, Spring

Prerequisites

Take SPM 126

First Year Experience Course

No

Capstone Course

No

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Describe common leadership styles and characteristics used by coaches, managers, and executives in professional sports organizations.
2. Analyze how effective leadership influences team performance, communication, and organizational culture in the professional sports environment.
3. Apply basic leadership and problem-solving strategies to real or simulated situations involving team management, motivation, or conflict resolution.
4. Discuss the ethical and professional responsibilities of leaders in sports, including issues of fairness, diversity, and accountability.

Topic Outline

Course Topic Outline: Sport Leadership

1. Introduction to Leadership in Sport

   • Definitions and key concepts

   • Leadership vs. management in sport contexts

2. Leadership Theories and Approaches

   • Trait, behavioral, situational, and transformational models

   • Contemporary approaches to sport leadership

3. Ethics and Ethical Decision-Making

   • Ethical frameworks and dilemmas in sport

   • Case studies of ethical leadership

4. Leadership Styles in Practice

   • Coaching, administration, and organizational leadership

   • Leadership across different levels: youth, collegiate, professional

5. Diversity and Inclusion in Sport Leadership

   • Gender, race, and cultural considerations

   • Promoting equity and inclusion in sport settings

6. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

   • Effective team communication

   • Conflict resolution and motivational strategies

7. Leadership Challenges and Problem-Solving

   • Crisis management and decision-making under pressure

   • Managing teams and organizations through change

8. Personal Leadership Development

   • Self-assessment and reflection of leadership tendencies

   • Setting goals for continued growth and professional development

9. Case Studies in Sport Leadership

   • Analysis of real-world sport leaders and organizations

   • Lessons learned and application to personal leadership

10. Future Trends in Sport Leadership

    • Emerging issues and opportunities in sport leadership

    • Technology, globalization, and evolving athlete and organizational needs