REDEFINING THE GAME: Thriving a Sports Culture

Abstract

Sports hold a profound significance for nations, serving as a reflection of their cultural identity, community engagement, and economic development, instilling national pride. Pakistan, a country with a rich history and over a billion people, has long been associated with remarkable sporting achievements, particularly in fields like hockey and squash, competing on the global stage with great sporting nations. However, the nation's once-glorious era in sports has gradually waned, leaving it facing a critical challenge – the declining sports culture in Pakistan. This thesis, therefore, addresses a critical challenge in Pakistan's sports landscape – the pressing need for a sports training facility to foster athletic talent and cultivate a thriving sports culture. In response to the limitations of existing sports facilities, our research delves into innovative sports complex designs through a comprehensive methodology. It encompasses primary and secondary research, as well as case studies of local and international sports facilities, complemented by technical research exploring architectural innovations. By actively engaging the sports community through interviews, the design is etched to cultural, social, and contextual preferences. The research culminates in the creation of a national level training facility that adheres to international standards, poised to serve as a catalyst for disseminating sports culture, engaging the local community, and attracting sports tourism. This complex will function as both a center for learning and a leisure destination, featuring sports-related entertainment programs that will subtly promote interest in sports and generate revenue, alleviating the burden on government funds allocated for sports promotion. This thesis, therefore, offers a comprehensive roadmap to enhance the nation's sporting standards, invigorate a vibrant sports culture, elevate the city's image, and stimulate sports tourism in Faisalabad and across Pakistan.