THE ROLE OF SOCIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF COHESION AND LEADERSHIP IN OPTIMIZING THE HUMAN RESOURCE POTENTIAL OF UKRAINIAN SPORTS

The article examines the significance of sociometric analysis as a tool for studying interpersonal relationships within sports teams, which influences the effectiveness of human resource management in the field of physical culture and sports. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of team cohesion levels, identification of informal leadership, sociometric positions of team members, and socio-psychological factors that determine the dynamics of a sports group’s development. The relevance of the study is determined by the need to develop an effective human resource policy in Ukrainian sports, especially in the context of modern challenges — such as martial law, migration processes, and youth adaptation to new social conditions. Sociometry enables timely identification of weaknesses in team interaction, contributes to improving communication quality, team spirit, and effective role distribution within the collective. The theoretical foundations of the study of sociometric analysis in optimizing human potential in sports are considered. The conceptual framework is based on an interdisciplinary synthesis of knowledge from social psychology, management, sports pedagogy, and organizational behavior. Key scientific approaches are highlighted, which determine the content and methods for analyzing interpersonal interaction in sports teams: the sociometric approach (J. Moreno), group cohesion theory (V. Lott, A. Carron), leadership psychology (K. Lewin, B. Bass, O. Kuznietsova), the systems-organizational approach, human resource management approach, and pedagogical-psychological approach. Sociometry in the sports context is presented as a diagnostic tool for identifying a team's social structure, level of cohesion, leadership potential, and participants’ psychological compatibility. The use of sociometric analysis is shown to contribute to effective HR decision-making, the development of human capital strategies, and long-term stability in sports organizations. As a result of the research, the expediency of regular sociometric monitoring in the management of sports teams and personnel is substantiated, as it promotes increased motivation, productivity, and stability among both athletes and coaching staff. The study also outlines future prospects for integrating sociometric methods into the national-level sports human resource management system.