Societal Impacts of Elite Sport: Positives & Negatives

Relevance of the topic

In the early twenty-first century, elite sport[i] became an increasingly important policy priority (Green, 2009). When facing the challenge of justifying investments in elite sport to the public, elite sport policymakers tend to argue that a wide range of societal outcomes will ‘trickle down’. However, there is scarce evidence to support this dominant discourse (Grix & Carmichael, 2012). The nature of this special issue is therefore timely as it underscores the critique that public investment decisions are often politically motivated and thus rarely evidence based. Undeniably, the current empirical evidence base regarding a range of claimed impacts generated in the context of elite sport is inadequate and fragmented (Frick & Wicker, 2016; Funahashi, De Bosscher, & Mano, 2015; Van Bottenburg, 2013). When measuring impacts assumed to be triggered by elite athletes, sporting success, or the organisation of major sporting events, it seems that academics have traditionally used study designs where causality is difficult to establish. A further criticism of elite sport impact research is the strong use of case studies and expert opinion with the subjective perceptions of individuals playing a key role as the main source of evidence. This special issue resonates with calls for the research community to contribute to empirical research with robust and appropriate research designs rather than offering assertions or opinions (Weed & Dowse, 2009).

Moreover, we propose a shift of focus from ‘if’ public investments can be legitimised towards ‘how’ public investment can be allocated (more) successfully for social impact purposes. Intrinsically, elite sport is neither beneficial nor harmful (Coalter, 2007). If we believe that elite sport can and should enable impacts, then we need to ask how elite sport should be envisioned and implemented to enable and, ideally, optimise its assumed impacts. Overall, the quality of evidence for the impact of elite sport in relation to several outcome areas is relatively weak (De Rycke & De Bosscher, 2019). We contend that what is required to develop the field is innovative, robust research such as mixed-method designs based on theories of change, which are more appropriate for establishing causality. Research that pushes forward with (inter- and transdisciplinary) research designs (e.g., mixed-methods), informed by recognised conceptual frameworks will assist in providing a more solid evidence-base to guide the decision-making of practitioners and policymakers. Therefore, the purpose of this special issue is to refine the investigation into the assumed societal impacts of elite sport. Theoretical, empirical, and methodological submissions in light of the problematic evidence base and resulting limited understanding of the role of elite sport in society are welcomed.

Overall, the Special Issue on the Societal Impact of Elite Sport aims to:

• review the current state of theoretical and empirical researchregarding the potential positive and negative societal impacts that flow from the various ways elite sport is organised, managed and marketed in society;
• critically reflect on the existing research designs and encourage interdisciplinary explorationas well as new approaches that contribute to the understanding of the assumed societal impact of elite sport; and
• propose a future research agenda for robust measurement of the assumed societal impacts of elite sport.

Possible themes and subthemes this proposed special issue would include:

Contributions are welcome from any social or human science discipline, including sport management, marketing, sport policy, sociology, sport psychology, and sport economics. Robust qualitative, quantitative and mixed method research approaches that focus on the societal impact of elite sport are encouraged. We are looking for studies that advance theory and knowledge on the understanding of societal impact of elite sport. For instance, studies that apply innovative methodologies or that may contribute to broader methodological debates. Additionally, we particularly value research that goes beyond the well-used qualitative methods or traditional quantitative research strategies that are well established in sport management studies.

Research that aims to investigate assumed positive or negative societal impacts empirically in the context of elite sport is specifically encouraged. We invite contributors to examine the themes and subthemes outlined briefly below.

1. Research on social equality and inclusion in the context of elite sport; investigations of the potential of elite sport (when properly leveraged) to bridge different cultures and increase equality (e.g. social mobility). Or, studies on manifest and institutional forms of discrimination (e.g. sexism, exclusion, exploitation, racism, human trafficking, etc.) in the context of elite sport.
2. Research on identity and pride; international sports events are used to highlight national symbols and present athletes and teams as representatives of nation states. This phenomenon provides occasions for the public expression of national values, pride, collective unity, identity and nationalism, rivalry and aggressive behaviour.
3. Research on ethics and fair play in the context of elite sport; elite sport provides a platform for ethical conduct and positive social debate but is often associated with unethical practices: scandals regarding corruption and fraud, competitive traits, aggression/violence, doping, unfair play and other deviant behaviour examples.
4. Research on the ‘feel good factor’ or ways in which sports fans who attend or watch live sporting events derive a pleasurable form of excitement, happiness and satisfaction. Or, in contrast, experience anger, disappointment, frustration or hostility.
5. Research related to the attractive power of elite sport. Sport events, teams and athletes enjoy a great deal of worldwide media coverage and have the potential to build strong brands by capitalising on the emotional relationship shared with fans.
6. Research on international prestige and image; ‘showcase effects’ can occur when sport offers an arena for countries to compete with each other to gain international recognition and prestige. Indeed, countries bidding for major events sometimes do so to create a powerful public stage for their ideological battles, for propaganda, or to gain soft power.
7. Research on the stimulation of sport participation and healthy behaviour in the context of elite sport; investigations whether athletes provide inspiration to develop an active lifestyle or alter personal characteristics (volunteering, character building, self-efficacy…). Or, studies on negative impacts like decreased body image or discouragement to participate in sport due to the competence gap with successful athletes.
8. Research on sponsors and commercial activity in the context of elite sport; partnerships and sponsorship deals hypothetically lead to direct economic impacts relating to merchandise sales, TV rights, jobs or sport industry assets. Nonetheless, throughout history, there is evidence of mega-event organisers suffering from financial hangovers.
9. Research on the local beneficial and harmful impacts of elite sport-related activities; studies reporting on tourism, consumption, employment, exploitation costs and the impact on living conditions within host communities (e.g., overcrowding, disorder and price rises). Host cities often try to regenerate neighbourhoods by investing in public transportation, local infrastructure, hotels and green zones. It is notable that when hosting mega-events there can be negative environmental impacts (including air pollution, waste…).

Call for the ESMQ 2021 Special issue

Papers should be submitted in electronic format through Manuscript Central using the following link: http://mc.manuscriptcentral.com/resm; indicating you want the manuscript to be considered for Special Issue 21.1.

Proposed and Indicative Timeline:

September 5, 2019:     Workshop 8 @ the 27th EASM 2019 Conference (Seville, Spain, 3-6 September 2019). This was an optional activity.

October, 2019:            Call for Papers for the Special Issue is widely disseminated

May 30, 2020:             Submission deadline of full papers for consideration. Manuscripts in review process.

September 1, 2020:     Feedback to authors

November 1, 2020:     Return date for revised manuscripts

December 1, 2020:     Second round of review process (if necessary) and finalisation

December 31, 2020:   Chapter written by SI editors – introduction to the SI

December 31, 2020:   Materials are prepared for final publication and sent to publisher

Januari, 2021:             First ESMQ issue of 2021

Name and affiliation of Guest Editors

Veerle De Bosscher, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium
Simon Shibli, Sheffield Hallam University, UK
Maarten Van Bottenburg, Universiteit Utrecht, The Netherlands
Jens De Rycke, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Belgium

Please contact Veerle De Bosscher via email (veerle.de.bosscher@vub.be) if you have any questions.

References

Coalter, F. (2007). A wider role for sport: Who’s keeping the score. London: Routledge.

De Rycke, J., & De Bosscher, V. (2019). Mapping the Potential Societal Impacts Triggered by Elite Sport: A Conceptual Framework. International Journal of Sport Policy and Politics. Advance Online Publication.https://doi.org/10.1080/19406940.2019.1581649

Frick, B., & Wicker, P. (2016). The trickle-down effect: how elite sporting success affects amateur participation in German football. Applied Economics Letters, 23(4), 259–263. https://doi.org/10.1080/13504851.2015.1068916

Funahashi, H., De Bosscher, V., & Mano, Y. (2015). Understanding public acceptance of elite sport policy in Japan: A structural equation modelling approach. European Sport Management Quarterly, 15(4), 478–504. https://doi.org/10.1080/16184742.2015.1056200

Girginov, V., & Hills, L. (2009). The political process of constructing a sustainable London Olympics sports development legacy. International Journal of Sport Policy and Politics, 1(2), 161–181. https://doi.org/10.1080/19406940902950713

Green, M. (2009). Podium or participation? Analysing policy priorities under changing modes of sport governance in the United Kingdom. International Journal of Sport Policy and Politics, 1(2), 121–144. https://doi.org/10.1080/19406940902950697

Grix, J., & Carmichael, F. (2012). Why do governments invest in elite sport? A polemic. International Journal of Sport Policy and Politics, 4(1), 73–90. https://doi.org/10.1080/19406940.2011.627358

Grix, J., Lindsey, I., De Bosscher, V., & Bloyce, D. (2018). Theory and methods in sport policy and politics research. International Journal of Sport Policy and Politics, 10(4), 615–620. https://doi.org/doi.org/10.1080/19406940.2018.1537217

Van Bottenburg, M. (2013). “Passion alone is no longer enough”: the reframing of elite sport from a private trouble to a public issue. In P. Leisink, P. Boselie, M. Van Bottenburg, & D. M. Hosking (Eds.), Managing Social Issues. A Public Values Perspective (pp. 126–142). Cheltenham, UK: Elgar, Edward.

van der Roest, J.-W., Spaaij, R., & van Bottenburg, M. (2015). Mixed methods in emerging academic subdisciplines: The case of sport management. Journal of Mixed Methods Research, 9(1), 70–90.

Weed, M., & Dowse, S. (2009). A missed opportunity waiting to happen? The social legacy potential of the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Journal of Policy Research in Tourism, Leisure and Events, 1(2), 170–174.

[i] Elite sport, or high-performance sport, is sport at the highest level of competition, with elite athletes as the competitors

At the first meeting of the newly elected EASM Board, Stefan Walzel was unanimously confirmed and officially appointed as Secretary General. Furthermore, Emma Baker and Christian Overduin introduced themselves as candidates for the board position as student representatives. The Board appointed Christian Overduin to the Board and is very pleased that Emma Baker will support him.

Congratulations and much success!

The EU funded Run for Health project had its second meeting in Utrecht from September 19 – 20 2019. The project aim is to study running events, develop guidelines for health enhancing promotion through running events, increase awareness of their effects in physical wellbeing, and develop policy recommendations and in European level.

More information on the project can be found here: https://www.runforhealth.eu/

The EASM Board invites you to the Annual General Meeting on 5^thSeptember 2019, 4pm in Seville (Hotel Melia, Calle Dr. Pedro de Castro, 1, 41004 Seville, Spain).

All relevant AGM documents will be available by 22^nd August 2019 on the website in the membership section and will be delivered electronically via the newsletter to all EASM members.

According to § 7.2.1 (iv) of the EASM statutes any items for business including Nominations for elections and Notices of Motion must be submitted to the Secretary-General not less than 42 days before the date of the meeting.

After the AGM the prestigious EASM Award Ceremony will be held at 5pm at Melia Hotel, Seville. At this EASM members only event the winners of the Chelladurai Award and EASM Distinguished Service Award will be announced and their achievements and services celebrated.

At the Annual General Meeting in Seville on 5^th September 2019 all board positions will be up for election.

The Nominations Committee invites expressions of interest from members who will be prepared to commit time, ideas and energy to future development of the Association. Interesting projects, challenges, and events will await the new board members, and will connect you further with the diverse world of sport management. Detailed Information regarding requirements, responsibilities, and criteria can be found on the website via the following link: https://easm.devserv24.de/how-to-become-an-easm-board-member/

We invite interested individuals to submit an application by 25^th July 2019, 12 noon CET to the Secretary-General, Stefan Walzel (stefan.walzel@easm.net) and the Chair of the Nominations Committee Per Göran Fahlström (pergoran.fahlstrom@lnu.se).

Candidates will be introduced to the EASM family on the website on 22^nd August  2019.

The electronic voting will take place 29^th August – 4^th September 2019. All EASM members will receive a personal invitation to vote via the online election facility. Your vote counts so please make sure you cast it during the specified period.

We look forward to welcoming you in Seville!

The World Association for Sport Management is now calling for bids for the Fourth WASM Conference to be held in late 2021 or sometime in 2022.  The proposed timeframe should not clash with any of our Regional Association members’ annual conferences.

Please contact Dr. Karen Danylchuk, WASM President, for the bid guidelines and submission form.  Email address is karendan@uwo.ca

All bids must be sent to Dr. Karen Danylchuk, WASM President, no later than September 15, 2019.  A final decision on the winning bid will be determined at the WASM Board meetings during the Third WASM Conference in Santiago, Chile October 16-19, 2019.

In line with EASM’s strategic priorities, the board has been working on the establishment of a Working Group on Employability & Entrepreneurship.

The first meeting is set for the time of the 27th EASM Conference in Seville. The Chair of the Working Group, Steve Osborne from Cardiff Metropolitan University (UK), and the EASM board invite interested members to join and actively contribute to ideas and objectives.

Considering the new EASM Statutes, all EASM Board positions (President, Vice-President, Treasurer, and 5 General Directors) are for re-election this year.

The EASM Nominations Committee, consisting of Per Göran Fahlstrom (Chair), Tracy Taylor, Anna Gerke, and Stefan Walzel, announces the following timeline for the EASM Board elections 2019:

1 May 2019                  Announcement of the timeline and process for nominations for Board positions

8 Jul 2019                   Notice of General Meeting / General Assembly

8 Jul 2019                   Call for nominations opens

25 Jul 2019                 Submission deadline for applicants and nominations (12 noon CET)

22 Aug 2019                Dissemination of candidates and voting information to all registered EASM members

29 Aug-4 Sep 19          Electronic voting period

5 Sep 2019                  AGM – elections held for any remaining vacant board position(s) (§ 7.1.5)

19 Sep 2019                Appointment of the EASM Board student member by the newly elected Board announced

17 Oct 2019                Appointment of Secretary General by the new elected EASM Board announced

Please take note of the following specific paragraphs of the EASM Statutes:

Charters 8.2     The Board of EASM shall comprise eleven (11) persons being:

a) Eight (8) persons elected by the members of EASM;
b) A student member appointed by the elected Board members;
c) The ESMQ Editor appointed by the ESMQ Editorial Board; and
d) The Secretary General who shall be appointed by the Board.
The Board shall be constituted as set out in the Bye-Laws, but not more than 75% of the elected Board Members may be male and not more than 75% may be female. No one nation may ever have more than two of the elected members of the Board.

8.2 Balanced Board and Nationality

a) The General Assembly (and Nominations Committee in seeking candidates) should strive for geographical, national and gender equity and balance in the membership of the Board and
(i) At least 4 members of the Board shall be male and at least 4 members shall be female;
(ii) Not more than two of the elected members of the Board may be from any one nation.
b) A person’s Nationality shall be determined by their Passport or National Identity Card. In the event they hold two or more Passports or National Identity Cards, their nationality shall be deemed to be that of their place of birth and if no longer a nation then the place in which they are permanently domiciled. This definition of Nationality applies throughout this Charter.

8.6 Nominations

Nomination of candidates for election to the Board may be submitted by any two full or institutional members of EASM, who must be eligible to vote at the Annual General Meeting, provided that such nomination is deposited with the Secretary-General in writing not less than 42 days prior to the Annual General Meeting. The nomination should specify for which position on the Board the candidate has been nominated. A candidate may nominate for any number of positions on the Board but may only hold one position and must accept the first position to which they are elected.

“Global Sport Business – Managing Resources and Opportunities” is the 4th book in the World Association for Sport Management Series. The series aims to aims to encourage and highlight the development of international perspectives, international partnerships, and international best practice in sport management, recognizing the globalised nature of the contemporary sport industry.
The latest book of the series examines how the development and management of resources and opportunities in sport business is vital to success. It examines key research and practical issues in sport business management and marketing studies in both global and local contexts.

Get a copy now or explore the whole series: WASM Book Series

The 2019 European Sport Management Conference is coming closer and the Organising Committee is busy preparing for the upcoming event.

There is still time to finalise and submit an abstract for presentation or poster session, with the deadline being 19th April 2019, 23.39 CET.
https://easm2019.com/call-for-papers/
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