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Analyzing the Impact of Transformational Leadership on the Performance of Professional Sports Teams
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Reza Mousavi *   |
| M.Sc. in Sports Management, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr Branch, Iran |
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Abstract: (4 Views) |
| As one of the modern leadership paradigms emphasizing motivation, inspiration, and personal development, transformational leadership has received significant attention in sports management in recent years. In the highly competitive environment of professional sports, coaches' leadership styles can play a decisive role in team performance. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the components of transformational leadership and team performance in Iranian professional sports teams. The present study was descriptive-correlational in nature and utilized a quantitative approach. The statistical population comprised coaches and players from the Iranian Premier League in football, volleyball, and basketball during the 2024–2025 season. A sample of 230 participants (150 players and 80 coaches) was selected using proportionate stratified sampling. Data were collected using two standard instruments: the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ) for transformational leadership and a team performance questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and multiple regression. The results revealed that all components of transformational leadership had a positive and statistically significant relationship with team performance ($p < 0.01$). Among the components, "inspirational motivation" and "individualized consideration" exhibited the strongest predictive power in explaining team performance. The final regression model accounted for 58% of the variance in team performance. Furthermore, a significant difference was observed between players' and coaches' perceptions regarding the leadership components. Transformational leadership plays a crucial role in enhancing the performance of professional sports teams. Coaches possessing the ability to provide inspiration, individualized support, and ethical guidance can foster team cohesion, motivation, and productivity. The findings of this study can serve as a foundation for designing professional coaching development programs and informing sports policymaking. |
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| Keywords: Transformational Leadership, Team Performance, Sports Coaches, Inspirational Motivation, Professional Sports |
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Full-Text [PDF 1129 kb]
(3 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
General
Received: 2025/04/9 | Accepted: 2025/05/16 | Published: 2025/06/20
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