Exploring Sport Management as an Academic Profession: A Critical Review of Occupational Theory

The discussions surrounding the current state of sport management as an academic discipline have traditionally been the responsibility of key addresses and editorials. In drawing upon the sociological and management literature surrounding professions, this article critically reflects upon the characteristics of the field and the extent to which it can be viewed as a profession. More specifically, Abbott’s (1988) general theory of the profession and Greenwood's (1957) five attributes (systematic theory, authority, community sanction, ethical codes, and professional culture) that characterize a professionalized occupation are drawn upon and discussed in relation to the evolution and current state of the field. The findings elucidate the complexities of the professionalization process surrounding occupations and suggest that there are burgeoning signs of a profession emerging, but the field, at best, can be labelled a semi or quasi-profession. The implications of these findings for the future direction of the field are discussed