Current Projects

Processes and consequences of professionalization in sports clubs

Background and aim of the project

Sports clubs play a cruicial role in promoting physical activity among the population and fulfill a wide range of social functions. However, many voluntary sports clubs are increasingly struggling to meet their objectives and responsibilities. In response, they are turning to professionalization as a means of addressing these challenges. This project adopts a case study approach to comprehensively examine professionalization processes in Swiss and German voluntary sports clubs. The focus lies on identifying the conditions and obstacles that drive or hinder professionalization, as well as the associated decision-making processes. Particular attention is placed on the question of whether the intended goals of professionalization are actually achieved and which undesirable side effects may be observed.

Theoretical-methodical approach

This project draws on existing multi-level analytical frameworks of professionalization and extends them by integrating a processual perspective and examining potential outcomes. Empirical case studies are carried out in sports clubs in Switzerland and Germany to apply this framework.

Relevance of the project

A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying professionalization processes serves as the foundation for the formulation of management recommendations that are tailored to the specific needs of sports clubs. The findings of this study contribute to the existing body of knowledge by providing insights into the forms of professionalization that are most suitable for sports clubs.

Project partners:

Prof. Dr. Torsten Schlesinger & Luc Schulz (IfAB, TU Chemnitz)
Prof. Dr. Siegfried Nagel, Dr. Grazia Lang, Romano Meier & Raphael Stieger (ISPW, University of Bern)

Project duration: February 01, 2022 to September 30, 2025

Project funding: SNF & DFG (Program: Lead Agency)