Abstract

PURPOSE This study explores strategies for enhancing the qualitative development of Korean school sports clubs by analyzing the institutional frameworks of school sports clubs in the United States. METHODS Data were collected between October and November 2024. The primary resource included the websites, annual reports, and code books of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) and the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU). In addition, studies on NFHS and AAU conducted in South Korea and other countries were used to supplement findings from the primary data. RESULTS The analysis identified the roles, organizational structure, educational program, budgetary systems, and website content of NFHS and AAU as the key themes. Specifically, both institutions are non-profit organizations that aim to foster students’ holistic growth as members of society through interscholastic sports competitions. Their parent organizations comprise various regional bodies responsible for overseeing sports club competitions within their jurisdictions. Furthermore, NFHS and AAU offer dedicated or collaborative educational programs that support psychomotor development, social, emotional, and cognitive development, as well as academic advancement. Both institutions maintain independent budget structures and operate autonomous systems that are accessible and manageable through their websites. CONCLUSIONS Based on the findings, we recommend establishing a dedicated institution with specialized expertise to manage school sports clubs in Korea, ensuring effective utilization of educational programs, fostering stronger connections between school sports clubs and local communities, and developing diverse business models to support independent budgeting. We also propose follow-up research to further promote the qualitative growth of Korean school sports clubs.