Scientific research gains real impact when it transcends the walls of the university and reaches the spaces where the challenges of the future are discussed. It was precisely in this spirit that I had the opportunity to accompany my master’s student, Margarida Direito, during her participation in the European Sport Congress, one of the main European events dedicated to innovation, research and development in sport.

The congress brings together researchers, organizations, policymakers, and entities linked to the European sports ecosystem, promoting the dissemination of projects, the creation of international partnerships, and the discussion of new approaches for the future of sport.

An investigation into the digital transformation in Portuguese football.

During the congress, Margarida presented her research entitled:

“Proposed Guidelines for the Creation of a Digital Transformation Metaplan for Football Clubs in Portugal”

This work seeks to address a challenge that is increasingly relevant to national football: how to structure a strategic plan that allows clubs to accelerate their digital transformation in a sustainable and organized way.

Digital transformation is no longer just a technological issue. It now represents a structural change in how clubs manage their processes, communicate with fans, analyze data, develop talent, and make strategic decisions. Numerous studies have shown that digital maturity is increasingly linked to the competitiveness and growth of sports organizations.

It was particularly gratifying to attend the presentation of this work and observe the interest shown by participants from different European countries, reinforcing the importance of Portuguese research in this emerging field.

The importance of supporting students beyond the classroom.

As a teacher and researcher, I believe that mentoring students does not end with the scientific guidance provided at the university.

Being present during the presentation of a research project, supporting its preparation, discussing ideas before the session, attending the thesis defense, and fostering contacts with other researchers are essential parts of the training of any young researcher.

It is precisely at these international events that many students have their first contact with the scientific community, learn to communicate their results, and develop fundamental skills for their academic and professional careers.

Seeing our students represent Portugal at international events is always a source of immense satisfaction.

An excellent Portuguese representation

The Portuguese participation also included several personalities linked to the sports sector, among them:

• Drª. Anabela Reis, Vice-President of the Board of Directors of the Portuguese Sports Foundation;
• Dr. Paulo Marcolino, Executive Director of the Portuguese Sports Foundation;

as well as representatives from various national and international institutions linked to the development of sport, innovation and European cooperation.

The presence of these entities demonstrates the growing importance that Portugal is assuming in the discussion of innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation policies applied to sport.

Networking, collaboration and new opportunities

In addition to the scientific sessions, the congress provided numerous networking opportunities between researchers, organizations, and those responsible for European projects.

These initiatives make it possible to create new international collaborations, learn about innovative projects and identify common challenges that could give rise to future research or applications for European programs.

As a researcher, I consider this direct contact with the international scientific community to be one of the most enriching aspects of any conference.

Final reflection

I return from this congress with immense pride in the work done by Margarida Direito and the professional way in which she represented Portuguese research.

The internationalization of science is achieved through people, ideas, and the ability to transform knowledge into real impact. I will continue to encourage my students to present their work at international conferences, believing that these experiences are fundamental to their academic and professional growth.

Congratulations to Margarida on this important milestone in her journey. I am certain that this will be just another step in a promising scientific career.