THE ROLE OF SPORTSMANSHIP IN TRAINING YOUTH FOOTBALL PLAYERS꞉ THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK, VIETNAMESE CONTEXT, AND TWO CASE STUDIES (AJAX & SONG LAM NGHE AN)

Abstract

The paper examines the role of sportsmanship in the training of youth football players. Based on the Olympic
Charter values and FIFA Fair Play standards, the paper argues that sportsmanship is a core component of
holistic training, influencing personality development, intrinsic motivation, team cohesion, and long‑term
performance. The article expands the perspective in Vietnam, reviewing typical efforts and challenges, before
analyzing two case studies꞉ the Ajax Youth Academy (Netherlands) with the TIPS model (Technique‑Insight
Personality‑Speed), and Song Lam Nghe An (Vietnam). From the comparison, the study proposes a set of
recommendations for Vietnam꞉ integrating sportsmanship into youth training outcome standards, issuing a
players' code of conduct, systematizing reward‑discipline mechanisms, and strengthening international
cooperation in coach development.