Visualizing college sports management research from year 1993 to 2023: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer

Abstract

Objective:

This study aims to evaluate the growth and evolving focus of college sports management (CSM) research, identifying key contributors and thematic trends within the field.

Methods:

A bibliometric approach was used, analyzing data from VOSviewer, and the Web of Science (WoS), Scopus and EBSCOhost to assess publication patterns, co-citation networks, and keyword co-occurrence, highlighting influential authors, institutions, and research themes.

Results:

Our study findings show an increase in CSM publications, with significant contributions from the USA, England, and Australia. Co-citation analysis highlights foundational theories, while keyword analysis identifies thematic clusters in management, sports, exercise, and performance. Emerging research focuses include “impact,” “performance,” “injuries,” “concussions,” and “risk.”

Conclusions:

This study suggests a need for localized CSM strategies and integration of technologies like artificial intelligence and Internet of Things to drive advancements. Future studies should incorporate additional databases for a broader view of CSM trends. This study underscores the importance of adaptive strategies to meet the dynamic needs of the CSM field globally.

1. Introduction

With the globalization of higher education and the continuous development of the field of physical education, college sports management (CSM), as an interdisciplinary subject, is increasingly garnering attention within the academic community.^[1–3] There is a research presented a model for automating CSM by leveraging Internet of Things technologies, proposed a solution focuses on improving sports equipment maintenance, enhancing the allocation of physical education resources, and fostering the efficient operation of college sports venues, and the system demonstrates an over 20% improvement in management efficiency, ensuring that students benefit from more effective sports programs and a transparent, data-driven management environment.^[4] Liu explored how internet sports information affects students’ motivation and behavior in physical education, highlights the challenges of integrating digital platforms with traditional physical education systems, and these insights emphasize the importance of leveraging modern technology to enhance sports management (SM) in colleges.^[5]

A study presents a comprehensive analysis of constructing a networked multimedia teaching platform for college sports, emphasizing the significance of the SM module within this platform. The research underscores the importance of leveraging computer technology and data storage to build an efficient teaching platform system, which aligns with the modern demands of educational reform and the digitalization of sports education.^[6] Another pioneering study on the design of a college physical education curriculum app, which is particularly relevant to the management of sports activities in colleges. The research grounded in questionnaire surveys and theoretical framework analysis, and the study’s findings suggest that a mobile app can significantly impact students’ physical activity and sports motivation, offering a valuable tool for SM in higher education.^[7] In addition, pioneering approach integrates chaos theory and machine learning to predict sports performance, the study demonstrates a prediction accuracy of no <90% for various sports performance metrics, underscoring the potential of such systems in enhancing athletic training and SM strategies in academic settings.^[8]

There is a compelling study on the utilization of decision tree algorithms within the context of big data to enhance PE teaching analysis and management. They construct a comprehensive PE management system that not only evaluates the impact of various teaching factors but also provides targeted solutions to enhance instructional quality, offering valuable insights for educational administrators and policymakers in the realm of SM.^[9]

The design and research behind an AI-based physical education platform have been delineated, emphasizing its role in enhancing the objectivity of physical education evaluations in colleges. The study underscores the utility of the feedforward neural network neural network in predicting student performance on national physical education exams, thereby providing a robust basis for teacher performance evaluation.^[10] A pioneering study on the design and implementation of an intelligent sports training system tailored for college students’ mental health education suggests that such systems can enhance physical fitness, improve the efficiency of sports venue management, and contribute to psychological education. This approach provides a comprehensive solution for promoting physical and mental well-being among college students.^[11] Research provides a pivotal perspective on the intelligent transmission of college physical training course information, emphasizing the importance of addressing current challenges in sports curricula and evaluation standards. Findings underscore the potential of data mining technology to deliver scientific and targeted guidance for students’ athletic development, contributing meaningfully to the discourse on improving the management and quality of physical education in academic institutions.^[12] Research presents an innovative algorithm leveraging these technologies to enhance SM systems. This system demonstrates a significant advancement in providing scientific and effective guidance to students, optimizing the timeliness and accuracy of decision-making in college sports. It also offers a deeper understanding of students’ physical fitness levels, enabling tailored teaching activities that can improve overall physical education quality and student health outcomes.^[13] An in-depth analysis underscores the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing data collection, management decision-making, and educational strategies within this domain.^[14]

A study explores pressing issues within college physical education in China, suggesting reforms that include increased leadership attention, comprehensive policy implementation, and the establishment of a multi-agent management system involving various stakeholders to enhance student health outcomes and sports participation.^[15] Valuable insights for academic programs aim to support students with disabilities in their transition from academia to professional settings, ensuring equal opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts.^[16] The service learning can be an effective method for fostering attributes such as altruistic calling, genuine caring, humility, and empathy among students. These findings provide valuable insights for educators seeking to integrate experiential learning opportunities that enhance ethical leadership and social responsibility within SM curricula.^[17] The comprehensive comparison of body composition, cardiovascular fitness, and dietary and exercise habits among university students are from different departments within the School of PE and Sports. It also underscores the importance of tailored approaches for different student cohorts.^[18] The development and preliminary validation of the social media as an educational and professional tool student perceptions scale underscored the multifaceted nature of social media’s role in higher education, particularly in enhancing student engagement, professional development, and industry connectivity.^[19]

The concept of CSM has been evolving recently, transitioning into a more concrete, globally implemented framework. However, systematic reviews on SM in colleges remain limited, with a lack of visual representations in the existing literature. This paper employs scientometric analysis methods to visually represent the current body of research on CSM, providing a clear framework for understanding the academic discourse on SM in higher education. It also highlights the traits and trends of associated articles. By offering a thorough examination of the worldwide importance of CSM, this review presents effective strategies for researchers and practitioners to achieve the CSM goal. Additionally, through the analysis of keywords, collaborative networks, and research trends, this study examines the prospective trajectories of CSM study and aids researchers in identifying emerging issues. The study also highlights the prominence of various countries in CSM research, encouraging deeper collaboration and knowledge sharing among international scholars. The findings aim to address existing knowledge gaps and provide meaningful insights to both researchers and decision-makers.

2. Theoretical framework

This study employs a structured theoretical framework (Fig. 1) to systematically analyze the evolution of research in CSM from 1993 to 2023. The framework is designed to capture various dimensions of bibliometric analysis, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the field’s development. The framework consists of the following key components:

Figure 1.

Theoretical framework.

Topic definition: The research focuses on CSM, emphasizing its role in sports science, physical education, and SM. This definition provides a clear boundary for the study, ensuring that only relevant research is considered in the bibliometric analysis.

Research scope & context: To establish a strong foundation, this study defines the research scope by highlighting the significance of CSM in academic literature. It positions the field within the broader domain of sports science and management, considering its interdisciplinary nature.

Data collection: The study utilizes bibliometric data retrieved from 3 major academic databases: Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCOhost. To ensure a comprehensive analysis, articles published in English, Chinese, and Spanish from the years 1993 to 2023 are included. This dataset forms the foundation for subsequent analyses.

Publication analysis and annual publication analysis: This step describes the growth process of publication volume over the years, identifying trends and periods of significant research activity.

Citation analysis of regions, authors, and institutions: This part highlights the most influential contributors to the field, analyzing the impact of different geographic regions, key scholars, and leading institutions.

Bibliometric analysis: Co-citation analysis of journals and publications: by examining co-citation relationships, this study reveals the major contributors and intellectual structure within the field. This approach helps in identifying key publications and the evolution of knowledge clusters.

Keywords hotspot analysis: By mapping frequently occurring keywords, the study elaborates on the prevailing research trends and emerging themes in CSM.

Discussion: The final section synthesizes the findings from the bibliometric analysis, identifying major research trends, influential scholars, and future directions in the field. This discussion contextualizes the evolution of research and provides insights into emerging areas for further investigation.

By integrating these analytical components, this framework provides a systematic approach to understanding the development and structure of research in CSM. The bibliometric insights derived from this study will contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the field and guide future research effort.

3. Materials and methods

3.1. Specifying the scope of the research

In bibliometric analysis, establishing a clear research scope is a critical first step. Before beginning the study, it is essential to precisely define both the content and boundaries of the investigation. We incorporate the interdisciplinary fields of physical education, sports science, and SM. This integration reflects the multifaceted nature of SM, which not only involves administrative and organizational aspects but also deeply intertwines with the principles of physical education and the scientific foundations of sports science. Historically, SM research has been closely linked to physical education and athletic administration, addressing managerial aspects such as personnel management, budgeting, facility management, and programming. Moreover, the evolution of SM as an academic discipline has seen it emerge from departments traditionally focused on physical education and sports science, underscoring the intrinsic connections among these fields.^[20,21] A lack of clear parameters can result in suboptimal findings, inaccuracies, and misalignment with the principal research aims. Therefore, careful assessment of the keywords employed in data collection is crucial. This study on CSM considered the following key aspects:

The core philosophy and objectives of CSM: It is to enhance the physical and mental well-being of students, foster the development of lifelong physical activity habits, and promote holistic development through scientific and systematic management and educational interventions.^[22]

The methodological framework of CSM: primarily grounded in contemporary educational, managerial, and kinesiological theories, CSM employs systematic and scientific approaches to ensure the realization of management objectives and the enhancement of teaching quality.^[23]

3.2. Collecting bibliometric data

To build a robust analysis database, this study initially selected relevant articles from the Web of Science (WoS) core collection including Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Arts & Humanities Citation Index (A&HCI) & Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus and EBSCOhost. All of WoS, Scopus and EBSCOhost regarded as extensive data repositories for many research objectives,^[24] they offer a broader capacity for citation analysis than other database.^[25] As the first batch major international bibliographic database with extensive metadata, they continue to be the leading resource for tasks such as journal selection, research assessment, and bibliometric analysis.^[26,27] Google Scholar offers open access to academic literature spanning various languages and fields, it was excluded from this study due to inconsistent data coverage, limited transparency in reporting, and variable representation of non-English sources. To ensure scientific rigor, the search was refined through carefully constructed search strings.^[26]

The second phase focuses on retrieving records from databases. To select relevant papers from scholarly journals, we applied specific academic search criteria. Using the WoS Core Collection, Scopus and EBSCOhost, we conducted searches within the defined research scope. Terms with “College” and “Sports Management” were entered into the “all fields” search, chosen due to their pertinence to the study area. These keywords serve as foundational terms for compiling a collection of publications related to CSM.

The third phase is the selection of literature. To exclude redundant documents and verify their adherence to the inclusion criteria, we first filtered for document types labeled as “Article,” with a publication span from 1993 to 2023. We then selected categories of “Sports Sciences,” “Management” and “Physical education” within the 3 databases categories and specified “English,” “Chinese,” and “Spanish” for the Languages section due to they are the top 3 main languages within this research area. Subsequently, a thorough reading and analysis of the core content of each article were conducted to ascertain their relevance to CSM. Ultimately, 2925 articles (12 retrieved from EBSCOhost, 757 retrieved from Scopus and 2156 retrieved from WoS) were selected for subsequent bibliometric analysis (Supplementary S1–S7,Supplemental Digital Content, https://links.lww.com/MD/P344; https://links.lww.com/MD/P345; https://links.lww.com/MD/P346; https://links.lww.com/MD/P347; https://links.lww.com/MD/P348; https://links.lww.com/MD/P349; https://links.lww.com/MD/P350). Figure 2 illustrates the entire search process.

Figure 2.

Overall research procedure.

3.3. Employing bibliometric analysis techniques for data examination

This study employed bibliometrics as the primary research methodology, grounding itself in quantitative analysis and systematic data processing to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the academic output in the relevant field.^[28] The core characteristics of bibliometrics encompass quantifiability and objectivity, it quantifies academic influence, citation counts, and research trends through the collection and analysis of extensive bibliographic data using statistical tools. This approach is not only applicable across various disciplines but also facilitates the understanding and dissemination of research findings by transforming complex information into intuitive charts through data visualization techniques.^[29] To meet our objectives, we employed the most appropriate bibliometric analysis techniques as outlined by Donthu et al^[30] Ultimately, VOSviewer was selected as the primary tool due to its advanced algorithms and computational capabilities, which are particularly effective for handling and visualizing large datasets, thereby ensuring robust and high-quality visual outputs.^[31]

4. Results

4.1. Publication statistics analysis

The number of publications provides an overview of the development status in the field.^[32] Figure 3 depicts the progression of CSM-related publications from 1993 to 2023. Overall, there is a steady upward trend in publication volume. Specifically, between 1993 and 2011, the annual output remained stable and minimal, generally under 30 publications per year. Despite limited research, this period established foundational concepts and methodologies for CSM. From 2012 to 2016, the number of publications increased more rapidly, ranging from 96 to 189 publications. Since 2017, annual publications have consistently exceeded 150, peaking in 2022. In 2023, there was a slight decline, suggesting researchers are focusing on refining research quality. The post-2017 surge reflects growing recognition of CSM’s importance, indicating that interest in this field will likely persist, drawing more scholars to advance CSM research.

Figure 3.

Number of annual publications.

4.2. Research of most involved countries or regions

CSM and its associated research exhibit distinct characteristics across various countries and regions.^[33] Examining the geographical distribution of publications can reveal the disciplinary status of research topics, as well as international cooperation and exchange.^[34] The bibliometric analysis results are presented in Figure 4, which displays the countries with the highest output of CSM-related publications, restricted to those with at least 5 papers, choosing an appropriate threshold is crucial for ensuring data clarity and meaningful visualization. The threshold setting affects the complexity and informativeness of the generated network graph. Different threshold values will produce varying effects.^[35] This visualization reveals that the United States leads in publication volume, with notable research connections to China and South Korea, underscoring significant collaborative ties involving the USA.

Figure 4.

Active countries with more than 5 publications.

From Table 1, it is evident that the USA leads in the publication of CSM-related articles, with a total of 1540 papers. England and Australia follow closely behind, with 269 and 195 articles, respectively. Canada is next with 178 publications, followed by China with 148 and South Korea with 142. Finally, Ireland, Japan, Taiwan, and Norway have published 88, 87, 82, and 72 articles, respectively. The figure also highlights the close proximity of the USA, England, Australia, China, and South Korea, suggesting a strong level of research collaboration among these countries. Notably, the thicker connecting lines between the USA, South Korea, and China indicate particularly significant collaborative ties. These observations lead to several key conclusions:

Table 1.

Top 10 countries with most publications.

No.	Country/Region	Documents	Citations
1	USA	1540	48,230
2	England	269	15,973
3	Australia	195	13,791
4	Canada	178	11,980
5	China	148	6008
6	South korea	142	1820
7	Ireland	88	2482
8	Japan	87	5083
9	Taiwan	82	1440
10	Norway	72	9115

There is a framework from USA for creating inclusive and effective internship experiences and it is particularly valuable for academic programs seeking to support students with disabilities in their transition from academic to professional settings, ensuring that they have equal opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in practical contexts.^[36] Also it existed a compelling examination of how entrepreneurial orientation, emotions, and failure narratives intersect to influence team performance following a loss, and enriched the SM literature by highlighting the complex dynamics between cognitive and emotional responses to failure and their implications for recovery and resilience in athletic contexts.^[36]

Nations such as USA, England, Australia, China, and South Korea possess a rich history of research, resources, and expertise in planning and related fields. This study has benefited from academic support and professional knowledge.

The figure also highlights the strong international scientific collaboration and academic exchange among countries such as the USA, England, Australia, China, and South Korea. Researchers from these nations are actively involved in international conferences, joint projects, and knowledge sharing, facilitating cross-border cooperation and the dissemination of study results. Regional cooperation is particularly pronounced, especially between the USA, England, and Australia. However, a qualitative review of research output suggests that their impact is driven by specialized research centers and funding availability rather than mere publication volume.^[37]

In contrast, emerging institutions from Asia and Europe are increasingly contributing to high-impact research, particularly in sports analytics and sustainability in athletic programs. This shift indicates a diversification of thought leadership, reflecting the global nature of SM challenges.

4.3. Research of key productive authors

Co-authorship analysis plays a crucial role in understanding the relationships between articles and the scientific collaborations among authors.^[38] In this research domain, a total of 7739 authors have made contributions to the field. Figure 5 and Table 2 present 10 most prolific authors, who have collectively published 173 articles throughout the study period. Leading the list is Cunningham, George B, from Texas A&M University System, with 28 papers and 805 citations, producing in a notably high average citation rate of 28.75 citations each publication. Ko, Yong Jae from the University of Florida, and Broglio, Steven P from the University of Michigan, follow with 20 and 17 papers, respectively. By 2023, Ko had accumulated 463 citations, while Broglio had 695 citations. It is noteworthy that citation counts do not always correspond exactly with the quantity of published articles. Only the 3 leading authors demonstrate citation rates that correspond to the output of their article, highlighting their significant influence in the field. Additionally, all of these top authors are affiliated with institutions in the 10 leading nations, indicating that the location of universities may influence the research output of their authors. However, early research focused on governance structures and financial sustainability, whereas recent works increasingly emphasize athlete well-being, diversity in leadership, and the impact of digital transformation.^[39] This shift reflects broader societal concerns regarding athlete mental health and equity, which are less evident from citation counts alone.

Figure 5.

Citation network of active research authors.

Table 2.

Top 10 most active authors.

No.	Author	Institution (Country)	Documents	Citations
1	George B. Cunningham	Texas A&M University System (USA)	28	805
2	Yong Jae Ko	University of Florida (USA)	20	463
3	Steven P. Broglio	University of Michigan (USA)	17	695
4	Matthew Walker	University of North Texas Denton (USA)	17	771
5	Thomas A. Buckley	University of Delaware (USA)	16	445
6	Michael A. Mccrea	Medical College of Wisconsin (USA)	16	438
7	Bob Heere	University of South Carolina (USA)	15	409
8	Shane J. Nho	Rush University (USA)	15	714
9	Masayuki Yoshida	Hosei University (Japan)	15	882
10	Michael Bar-eli	Ben Gurion University (Israel)	14	275

4.4. Research of distributed institution characters

Scientific institutions serve as pivotal entities in pertinent scientific domains. Analyzing the distribution patterns of these institutions provides valuable insights into the major contributors to CSM research. Figure 6 presents a visual representation of the top 30 research universities ranked by the quantity of published papers. In this figure, the size of each node reflects the institution’s publication volume, while the connecting lines represent collaborative relationships between institutions, also revealing trends in their temporal development. Institutions shown in dark blue and purple possess an average publication year of 2014 or earlier, whereas lighter blue and yellow nodes indicate more recent publications. Among the 10 leading research institutions (Table 3), all of them are situated in the USA, underscoring the country’s dominant research presence in this field, which aligns with its overall distribution. Notably, Seoul National University, University College Dublin, and La Trobe University are marked in colors closer to the present, indicating a focus on publications post-2020. This trend indicates that these institutions have emerged as early leaders in the field, producing more comprehensive and robust research outputs, contributing significantly to the ongoing academic discourse in CSM.

Figure 6.

Co-occurrence network of research institutions.

Table 3.

Top 10 most active research institutions.

No.	Organization	Documents	Citations
1	Texas A&M University System (USA)	129	3485
2	University of Florida (USA)	67	2225
3	Ohio State University (USA)	51	1252
4	University of Nouth Carolina (USA)	50	1814
5	University of Georgia (USA)	45	840
6	Texas Tech University (USA)	42	833
7	University of Michigan (USA)	41	1872
8	Florida State University (USA)	40	852
9	University of South Carolina (USA)	40	566
10	Medical College of Wisconsin (USA)	39	1615

4.5. Journal-citation analysis

Figure 7 visually illustrates the citation relationships, offering a summary of the distribution of foundational knowledge in the CSM field within the context of disciplinary support. This visualization facilitates the refinement of the disciplinary structure and knowledge framework, simplifying the identification of key and active research sources in the field.^[34] Based on the analysis conducted using VOSviewer, 127 source journals were identified, with the network schematic revealing 3 distinct clusters. The primary cluster, represented in orange, is centered around the “Journal of Sport Management,” which predominantly covers SM-related disciplines. The green cluster is led by the “American Journal of Sports Medicine,” while the blue cluster is anchored by the “Journal of Sports Sciences,” representing the leading source in sports science. This network diagram highlights the most influential journals within the realm of CSM and sports science research. Early literature emphasized financial management and governance,^[40] whereas recent research has increasingly focused on topics such as athlete health, the role of esports in collegiate sports, and the integration of big data in decision-making.^[41]

Figure 7.

Journal-citation network analysis.

Moreover, emerging journals established after 2015, such as BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine, Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine, and Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, have also contributed significantly to recent discussions on new trends and perspectives in SM. These journals have published key research highlighting the evolving role of SM in health and disease prevention. For example, recent studies discuss the importance of managing exercise training in relation to the kynurenine pathway in both healthy and diseased populations, emphasizing its potential in disease prevention and management.^[42] Additionally, research underscores how athletic administrators in American schools possess a unique advantage in guiding and supporting the prevention and management of catastrophic sports-related injuries.^[43] Moreover, health management models propose a comprehensive medical team approach to address wrist and hand pain among esports athletes, showcasing a growing focus on specialized sports populations.^[44] The presence of such research in these emerging journals highlights their increasing relevance in shaping the future direction of CSM studies. Therefore, their inclusion in bibliometric analyses ensures a more comprehensive and forward-looking understanding of the field.

4.6. High-cited publications analysis

Bibliometric citation analysis plays a crucial role in understanding the knowledge base and evolving trends within a particular field.^[45] The 3 databases track citation frequencies for literature related to CSM from 1993 to 2023. A minimum citation threshold of 10 was established, a total of 182 articles out of 82,135 cited documents met this criterion. Table 4 presents the 10 most-cited papers on CSM from 1993 to 2023, excluding those that did not meet the citation threshold. These top 10 articles collectively accumulated 515 citations. The most frequently cited article is by Claes Fornell et al, published in 1981 in the Journal of Marketing Research with 105 citations. This article introduced and applied a testing system based on shared variance within structural models, measurement models, and overall models to analyze structural equation models involving unobservable variables and measurement error.^[46] Another article with a high citation count is by Paul McCrory et al, published in 2017 in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, which received 68 citations. This research provides an overview of the current state of knowledge, though it is subject to updates as new knowledge emerges. It is primarily intended to guide clinical practice while acknowledging the ongoing development of concussion science and the importance of clinical judgment for return-to-play decisions.^[47] Notably, 4 of the most-cited articles originate from the early period (1993–2003), indicating that CSM research was still in its formative stages, laying the groundwork for future investigations. Additionally, more recent articles (2004–2023) emphasize thematic analysis as a versatile and valuable method for qualitative research, extending beyond psychology to college student research.^[48] While citation counts provide a measure of an article’s visibility, they do not necessarily reflect its academic impact. Articles with high citation numbers may receive citations due to their foundational nature, controversial arguments, or compulsory referencing rather than significant scholarly contributions. To address this limitation, we incorporate the field-weighted citation impact (FWCI) metric, which normalizes citation coun ts by comparing them to the average citation impact in the same field, year, and document type.^[49] “Cutoff criteria for fit indexes in covariance structure analysis”^[50] has an FWCI of 174.10, indicating that it has been cited 174.10 times more than the global average for similar publications, but only ranked in third place in Table 4. Conversely, “National Athletic Trainers’ Association position statement: management of sport concussion”^[51] has an FWCI of 8.26, showing it is cited over 8 times more than expected, but significantly lower than Virginia Braun’s work with 10th place in relative impact. This indicates that articles published during the period from 1993 to 2023 with high citation counts do not necessarily represent high-quality citations. In the future, researchers should be encouraged to focus on literature with high FWCI values, thereby shaping the direction of future research in the CSM field.

Table 4.

Top 10 highly cited publications.

No.	Title	Year	Author	Journal	Citations	FWCI
1	Evaluating structural equation models with unobservable variables and measurement error	1981	Claes Fornell	Journal of Marketing Research	105	35.8
2	Consensus statement on concussion in sport – the 5th international conference on concussion in sport held in Berlin, October 2016	2017	Paul Mccrory	British Journal of Sports Medicine	68	158.69
3	Cutoff criteria for fit indexes in covariance structure analysis: conventional criteria versus new alternatives	1999	Li‐tze Hu	Structural Equation Modeling: A Multidisciplinary Journal	59	174.1
4	Structural equation modeling in practice: a review and recommended 2-step approach.	1988	James C. Anderson	Psychological Bulletin	50	17
5	Conceptualizing, measuring, and managing customer-based brand equity	1993	Kevin Lane Keller	The Journal of Marketing	46	46.9
6	National Athletic Trainers’ Association position statement: management of sport concussion	2014	Steven Broglio	Journal of Athletic Training	44	8.26
7	Acute effects and recovery time following concussion in collegiate football players: the NCAA Concussion Study	2003	Michael McCrea	JAMA Network Online	44	14.63
8	Cumulative effects associated with recurrent concussion in collegiate football players: the NCAA Concussion StudyGuskiewicz	2003	KM Guskiewicz	JAMA Network Online	35	16.26
9	On the evaluation of structural equation models	1988	R. P. Bagozzi	Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science	32	18
10	Using thematic analysis in psychology	2006	Virginia Braun	Qualitative Research in Psychology	32	46.6

FWCI = field-weighted citation impact, NCAA = National Collegiate Athletic Association.

4.7. Research of keywords hotspot

In order to investigate SM in college settings, keywords retrieved from each publication in the database were evaluated using VOSviewer. These keywords generally reflect the central themes of the respective studies.^[52] Analyzing these keywords across all publications within the field helps identify emerging research trends. Figure 8 displays the results of the co-occurrence analysis for keywords that were featured more than 20 times. The size of each node in the figure is proportional to the frequency of the associated keywords. The 10 most frequent keywords are management (407 occurrences), performance (222 occurrences), sport (197 occurrences), exercise (172 occurrences), impact (149 occurrences), model (114 occurrences), sports (113 occurrences), rehabilitation (98 occurrences), football (89 occurrences), and physical activity (87 occurrences). These findings highlight those various aspects of SM, particularly in college settings, have been extensively studied.

Figure 8.

Network of keywords visualization.

The largest cluster, depicted in green, centers around the concept of management. Within the context of higher education, evaluating the physical education teaching environment is essential for developing well-rounded individuals equipped to meet the demands of the future workforce. The research offers a comprehensive evaluation system for assessing the physical education teaching environment in colleges and universities, utilizing the analytic hierarchy process. This approach not only assesses the quality of physical education but also underscores the importance of systematic management and resource development in the educational environment. By applying analytic hierarchy process, this model evaluates multiple dimensions of physical education and provides a framework to enhance resource utilization and guide the management of college sports activities.^[53]

The next cluster represented in color red, the main keywords are including performance, impact, and model. In the field of higher education, particularly within the domain of SM, it offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics between academic motivation and student alienation. It also underscores the significance of understanding the psychological and sociological factors that influence student engagement and success in academic pursuits related to sports. Plus revealing correlations between various dimensions of academic motivation and different facets of student alienation, provide a comprehensive framework for future research aimed at enhancing student outcomes in SM and related disciplines.^[54] The empirical study conducted by the authors of the document titled “Comparative result” offers valuable insights into the comparative analysis between experimental and control groups, which is pivotal for assessing the efficacy of sports programs and interventions. This provides a quantitative approach to understanding the differences in sports engagement and outcomes, which is essential for developing targeted strategies to enhance physical education and athletic performance within higher education institutions. The document’s findings underscore the importance of empirical data in shaping SM policies and practices, contributing to the broader discourse on the optimization of sports curricula and student-athlete development.^[55]

Exercise (blue) and concussion (yellow) represent 2 additional clusters within CSM. Scheduling sports competitions across multiple venues offers a pivotal perspective. The study developed an integer goal programming model, addresses the complex issue of balancing competitions to ensure fairness and efficiency. The model, designed to meet various conditions such as equal participation of each team at different stations and minimum repetition of matchups at the same venue, provides a robust framework for operational researchers and sports managers to optimize scheduling. This approach is particularly valuable for NCAA Division I coaches who seek to enhance their team’s training schedules and for institutions aiming to streamline their sports events management in college.^[22] A review provides an overview of the definition, pathophysiology, and epidemiology of sport-related concussion (SRC). It also addresses the diagnosis and management of both acute and persistent concussion symptoms, along with the short-term and long-term risks associated with SRC and repetitive head impact exposure. Furthermore, the review explores prevention strategies for SRC and outlines potential future research directions in this field. The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine is dedicated to promoting best clinical practices, advancing evidence-based research, and supporting educational initiatives that enhance the health and safety of athletes.^[56]

Figure 8 offers both a comprehensive and intuitive visualization that highlights the 5 primary research areas within CSM: management (green), sport & performance (red), exercise (blue), and concussion (yellow). The presence of “management” as a dominant keyword underscores the significance of strategic governance in college sports. This aligns with broader trends in sports administration, where institutions increasingly prioritize evidence-based management strategies to optimize financial sustainability, compliance, and student-athlete success.^[57] Research highlights that adaptive leadership, stakeholder engagement, and regulatory compliance are crucial in navigating the complex landscape of collegiate athletics.^[58] Additionally, technology-driven management models – such as data analytics and AI-driven decision support systems – are gaining traction in CSM, reflecting the increasing role of digital transformation in sports administration.^[59] As expected, “sport” emerged as a core keyword, reinforcing its role as the defining element of college athletics. Collegiate sports programs not only serve as competitive platforms for athletes but also contribute to institutional branding, alumni engagement, and revenue generation.^[60] The integration of sports science, coaching methodologies, and training innovations has significantly evolved, with a growing emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration between sports medicine, performance analytics, and athlete development programs. Moreover, discussions surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports participation have gained momentum, reflecting broader societal shifts in SM policies.^[61] The keyword “performance” highlights the increasing reliance on quantitative assessment tools to measure athlete success, team efficiency, and training effectiveness. This reflects a broader trend in sports analytics, where decision-making is increasingly data-driven. Key performance indicators such as physical conditioning, mental resilience, and recovery times are now central to SM and coaching strategies.^[62] Additionally, performance optimization frameworks, such as wearable technology, biomechanical analysis, and physiological tracking, are becoming integral to high performance athlete management in college sports.^[63] “Exercise” as a key theme reflects the critical role of physical training regimens in athlete conditioning and injury prevention. Modern CSM frameworks emphasize evidence-based exercise prescription, ensuring that training methodologies align with sports medicine guidelines and long-term athlete development models.^[64] Furthermore, exercise science research has contributed to shaping preventive healthcare initiatives within college sports, linking athletic performance with broader public health objectives. Programs that integrate nutrition, strength training, and periodization models are now standard practice in collegiate athletic departments.^[65] The emergence of “concussion” as a key theme highlights growing concerns over athlete safety, injury prevention, and long-term neurological health. The focus on SRC has intensified due to mounting evidence on their cognitive, psychological, and physiological impacts.^[47] This aligns with broader risk management trends in sports administration, where institutions are adopting more stringent return-to-play protocols, enhanced diagnostic tools, and athlete education programs to mitigate concussion risks.^[66] Additionally, advancements in concussion detection technologies, such as impact sensors and AI-driven assessment tools, are shaping policy recommendations for college sports governing bodies.^[67]

In addition to identifying these key areas, the figure also illustrates the strong interconnections between these clusters. For instance, there exists valuable insights into the intricate dynamics between academic motivation and student alienation. In the research, conducted among undergraduate students of sports sciences, underscores the significance of understanding the psychological and sociological factors that influence student engagement and success in academic pursuits related to sports. They reveal correlations between various dimensions of academic motivation and different facets of student alienation, provide a comprehensive framework for future research aimed at enhancing student outcomes in SM and related disciplines.^[54]

Moreover, there are some unlisted keywords with lower occurrences, they are more related this research such as risk-factors (50 occurrences), education (34 occurrences) and leadership (27 occurrences). Risk-factors are reflecting broader trends in sports governance, athlete health, and liability mitigation.^[68] Universities face growing regulatory challenges related to Title IX compliance, athlete compensation, and governance policies. Legal disputes over name, image, and likeness rights and eligibility rules have heightened awareness of compliance risks in college sports.^[69] Research has intensified around injury risks, concussion management, and overuse injuries among student-athletes. The prevalence of SRCs and their long-term impact on neurological health have prompted NCAA institutions to implement stricter protocols.^[70] The presence of “education” as a central keyword underscores the role of knowledge dissemination in shaping the next generation of sports professionals and improving athlete outcomes. This trend is driven by the intersection of academic programs, training methodologies, and lifelong learning in SM. Universities are continuously refining SM curricula to align with industry demands, technological advancements, and ethical considerations.^[71] Courses now incorporate sports analytics, legal aspects, and ethical leadership, providing a holistic education for future professionals. The increasing complexity of sports science and performance optimization has necessitated more education-driven coaching methodologies.^[72] Leadership has emerged as a pivotal theme in CSM research, mirroring broader management trends in organizational behavior, governance, and team dynamics. With increasing advocacy for gender equity and diversity in sports leadership, studies emphasize the need for inclusive leadership frameworks. The representation of women and minorities in collegiate sports leadership remains a key research focus, impacting hiring practices and institutional policies.^[73] The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the critical role of leadership in crisis management, as college sports administrators had to navigate event cancelations, budget cuts, and athlete safety concerns. Research suggests that adaptive leadership strategies and data-driven decision-making will shape the future of crisis resilience in college athletics.^[74]

Lastly, terminology within research fields is dynamic, subject to shifts and evolving trends.^[75] Some keywords remain consistently in use, while others may emerge as dominant for specific periods and gradually fade in prominence. Analyzing the temporal changes in keyword usage offers valuable perspectives on the trends and developments within a particular field. Therefore, in addition to identifying key research themes through clustering, we can also track the evolution of keywords over time. Figure 9, an extension of Figure 8 illustrates these temporal trends. In this figure, keywords highlighted in purple, and dark blue signify their average year of publication is 2014 or earlier, while newer keywords are depicted in bright yellow and light green. In general, newer keywords (represented by light yellow) are smaller in size compared to those linked to more established, persistent themes (shown in darker colors). Based on these visualizations, we can draw the following conclusions:

Figure 9.

Overlay keywords visualization.

To achieve better management in CSM, topics such as leveraging AI algorithms and big data to establish management frameworks have been relatively more established in previous research. In contrast, themes focusing on the impact on college students, sports injuries, concussion, risk and innovation are relatively new. Within the CSM research environment, “impact” is currently a latest studied area of interest.

5. Discussion

In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on research and practical applications related to SM within the college environment. This study utilizes VOSviewer to explore various dimensions, including publication timelines, article volume, keyword trends, key authors, collaboration networks, and notable research institutions visually and analytically. The analysis covers a total of 2925 publications on SM in higher education, involving 7739 authors and 2928 institutions, offering valuable insights into fundamental elements of this scientific field.

5.1. Discussion of major findings

5.1.1. Analysis of the temporal and spatial aspects of attaining CSM

From the vantage point of publications, it is evident that the pursuit of CSM objectives is exhibiting a robust upward trajectory in forthcoming research. As global concern grows, investigations into SM within the higher education environment are anticipated to attract broader attention and are expected to be more extensively implemented worldwide. This is attributed to the substantial relevance of CSM problems throughout multiple measurements. On one hand, by providing excellence in education and professional domains, while on the other hand, they optimize synergies between different academic and community sectors. This approach not only enhances the performance of stakeholders but also strengthens collaborations between universities and local communities, aligning with modern college goals and the internationalization of higher education. The project’s innovative teaching methods, which include interactive multimedia and location-based learning, prepare students for the complexities of the sports industry and bring credit to the scientific community,^[76] and have been widely discussed in pertinent publications. Furthermore, an growing volume of publications in the last few years, as illustrated in Figure 3, underscore the necessity for future study.

This study’s visual analysis emphasizes that USA, England, Australia, China, and South Korea have emerged as leading nations or areas in study on SM within the higher educations. Authors such as Cunningham, George B, Ko, Yong Jae, and Broglio, Steven P have had a significant impact within this domain, publishing the maximum quantity of publications and serving as the most significant and engaged authors. Furthermore, research institutions in USA have excelled in this area, studying representative colleges at different levels of development, and offering efficient reference frameworks for attaining the objectives of SM in colleges.

While high citation countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia have established robust frameworks for CSM, developing nations with few citaitons including Vietnam, Chile, Kenya, Iraq, Nigeria, and Egypt – present unique challenges shaped by economic constraints, political climates, and cultural differences. Economic limitations often restrict funding for university sports programs, leading to inadequate infrastructure, limited access to professional training, and fewer opportunities for student-athletes to engage in high performance sports.^[77] Political instability and governance issues further complicate the development of structured policies, as inconsistent regulations and a lack of governmental prioritization hinder long-term planning and investment in college sports.^[78] Additionally, cultural perceptions of sports differ significantly across these regions; in some societies, academic achievement is prioritized over athletic development, reducing institutional support for comprehensive SM systems.^[79] Gender disparities in sports participation also remain a significant barrier in certain developing nations, where sociocultural norms limit female engagement in competitive athletics.^[80] Furthermore, the absence of standardized data collection and research infrastructure in these countries poses methodological challenges for bibliometric analysis, resulting in their underrepresentation in global scholarly discussions on SM. Addressing these challenges requires a context-specific approach that considers local economic realities, governance structures, and cultural dynamics to enhance the inclusivity and applicability of SM research worldwide.

Taking the developing country of Egypt as an example, the availability of water resources and the scale of its economic foundation have inherently shaped the operation and management of water-related sports programs (such as swimming and diving) within its schools. SM professionals in Egypt can implement reforms by addressing these limitations and designing strategic improvements aligned with current research trends. Similarly, in Kenya, where political instability and economic constraints pose challenges, university SM strategies can be reformed by leveraging the country’s strengths in long-distance running while integrating insights from recent research developments.

5.1.2. Co-occurrence analysis: journals, references and keywords

Co-occurrence analysis indicates that the literature network map constructed within the field of CSM demonstrates the intersection and synergy among 3 core domains within higher education SM research. This distribution pattern not only reflects the interdisciplinary nature of CSM research but also highlights the significant academic contributions of higher education SM to fields such as sports administration, sports medicine, and sports science. Through this disciplinary clustering analysis, we can more clearly understand the diverse developmental pathways of higher education SM research, providing important guidance for future studies.

Co-occurrence analysis also discloses the seminal literature within the CSM domain, reflecting the foundational role of early theories and the ongoing evolution of research methodologies with the emergence of new technologies and knowledge in recent years.

Keyword co-occurrence analysis systematically reveals the research hotspots and developmental trends in the field, with management and sports being highly prominent keywords. The identified clusters, including management, sports, exercise, impact, performance, injuries (concussions), and risk, offer a rich reference framework for future research. This analysis not only aids in understanding the current research foci but also lays the groundwork for exploring cutting-edge topics and potential directions within the field of CSM.

5.2. Future direction

This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state and trends in CSM, offering guidance for future research directions. Firstly, in light of global attention to environmental issues, CSM research must prioritize environmental sustainability and explore environmentally friendly SM models to foster the development of socially responsible SM. Secondly, while USA, England, Australia, and other countries dominate the CSM field, future research should expand to more countries and regions, constructing a globally diverse CSM model and providing a more inclusive and adaptive theoretical framework through cross-national comparative studies.

Methodologically, CSM research should integrate big data analysis and artificial intelligence technologies to enhance the precision and foresight of studies. For instance, leveraging big data to track student athletic performance and designing personalized physical education programs can strengthen the empirical and scientific nature of research, aiding in management decisions. Concurrently, research should delve into the roles of psychological and social factors in SM, focusing on student mental health, social interaction, and individual differences to increase student engagement and satisfaction.

Keyword evolution analysis reveals those terms such as “sports injuries,” “concussion,” “risk” and “innovation” are emerging as new research hotspots. It reflects critical areas that university sports administrators and policymakers must address to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of college sports programs. Firstly, performance management has emerged as a key research focus. Higher education institutions can integrate data-driven performance assessment tools to monitor and optimize student-athlete performance. Advanced sports analytics, wearable technology, and AI-driven monitoring systems enable real-time tracking of physiological and biomechanical parameters, allowing for more personalized training programs and injury prevention strategies.^[81] Secondly, the growing emphasis on injuries and concussions in CSM research highlights the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols and athlete health management. Universities should implement evidence-based concussion protocols, as recommended by organizations like the NCAA, to reduce the long-term effects of head injuries on student-athletes.^[47] Additionally, educational campaigns can increase awareness among coaches and athletes regarding injury prevention strategies, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and best practices. Moreover, the focus on risk management in CSM research suggests that universities must develop comprehensive risk assessment frameworks to mitigate financial, legal, and reputational risks associated with sports programs. Implementing structured risk management policies, such as liability waivers, compliance training, and crisis response plans, can enhance institutional resilience.^[82] Additionally, the emergence of impact evaluation in CSM research signifies a shift toward assessing the broader societal, economic, and psychological effects of college sports. Universities should conduct impact assessments to measure the influence of their sports programs on student well-being, academic success, and community engagement. This can guide resource allocation and policy decisions to maximize the positive effects of sports on students and institutions alike.^[83] The presence of innovation underscores the role of technology in transforming SM. Advances in data analytics, wearable monitoring devices, and virtual reality training have influenced coaching strategies and injury prevention.^[84] These innovations align with resource-based view theory, which suggests that organizations gain competitive advantages by leveraging unique resources.^[85] Future research should further explore these trends by incorporating interdisciplinary perspectives, such as sports medicine, psychology, and business management, to develop a holistic approach to CSM. By applying these research insights, higher education institutions can enhance their SM practices, ensuring student-athlete welfare while advancing the competitive and strategic objectives of collegiate sports.

While bibliometric analysis provides valuable insights into the research trends in CSM, its practical applicability to industry professionals remains limited. The increasing research focus on sports injuries and concussion underscores the need for proactive injury management. CSM practitioners can apply these insights through enhanced athlete monitoring: implementing wearable technology and AI-driven analytics to track player workload and injury risks. Training and awareness programs: Educating athletes and coaching staff on concussion symptoms and immediate response measures. The prominence of risk as a keyword highlights the legal and financial challenges in CSM. To mitigate these risks, sports administrators should develop comprehensive liability policies: establish clear legal frameworks to address player safety concerns and potential lawsuits. Adopt data-driven decision-making: use injury and performance analytics to guide recruitment, training intensity, and medical intervention strategies. The keyword innovation highlights the growing role of technology in CSM. Practitioners can leverage innovation through smart training programs: utilizing virtual reality and motion tracking to optimize athlete training and recovery. Automated performance analysis: employing machine learning algorithms to assess player efficiency and reduce injury risks through biomechanical analysis.

To maximize the impact of bibliometric research in CSM, it is essential to translate key findings into actionable strategies. Strengthening athlete monitoring, risk management, and technological integration provides a roadmap for enhancing SM practices.

6. Conclusion

This bibliometric review offered an in-depth analysis of the dynamic development of CSM research. The increasing number of publications reflects the rising focus on CSM goals within higher education institutions. Key findings reveal the leading contributions of countries like the USA, England, and Australia, along with prominent authors and institutions, particularly those based in the USA, which play a pivotal role in shaping the field’s discourse.

Co-citation analysis of the literature reveals the foundational role of early theories in the CSM research domain and the ongoing evolution of research methodologies with the emergence of new technologies and knowledge in recent years. Highly cited publications indicate the diversified developmental pathways of CSM research. Keyword co-occurrence analysis systematically exposes research trends and hotspots in the CSM area, with clusters primarily composed of management, sports, exercise, and performance. Future research is expected to focus on “impact,” “performance,” “injuries,” “concussions,” and “risk.” To make significant contributions to the discipline, researchers must have a deep understanding of the implications associated with these keywords.

Moving forward, these research findings suggest that, considering the variations in CSM across different regions globally, CSM strategies need to be adapted to local contexts. The integration and support of technologies, incorporating artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, will play a transformative role in CSM.

While this review has provided valuable insights, it is important to acknowledge some limitations. The exclusive reliance on VOSviewer and the Web of Science Core Collection may limit the breadth of our findings. As research databases continue to develop, it will be critical to stay updated with new developments and consider incorporating alternative databases and bibliometric analysis tools for a more comprehensive understanding of CSM study trends.

In summary, this bibliometric analysis not only highlighted the current importance of CSM research but also established the foundation for further investigations. Considering the field’s dynamic nature, continuous monitoring and adapting to emerging technologies and evolving practices across different global regions will be essential to drive further advancements in CSM research.

Acknowledgments

We are grateful to Web of Science Core Collection, incorporating indexing from Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Arts & Humanities Citation Index (A&HCI) & Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI), Scopus and EBSCOhost database, and all participants in our study.

Author contributions

Funding acquisition: Gang Xu.

Data curation: Qian Yang.

Formal analysis: Qiang Li.

Project administration: Gang Xu, Hongli Yu.

Resources: Qian Yang.

Writing – original draft: Gang Xu.

Writing – review & editing: Hongli Yu.